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#1
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2003 x5 Hitch (wiring harness)
I have a question. Is it NECESSARY to purchase the hitch/ wiring harness for the x5? Could you do without? What does the module actually do? Can I just tap into the break and turn signals off the rear taillights? hoping I can get some feedback from anyone. Much appreciated!! |
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#2
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I can locate the parking lamp wire, brake wire, and turn signal wire(s), do i still need to purchase the OEM wiring harness? I can use a molex plug on both the hitch and trailer side to connect these wires...
I dont even know if the OEM harness comes with a module.. and if it does, what does it do? My thinking is all you would need is parking lights, brake, hazard, and turn signal wires to tap into to make a trailer work and dont know why i need to invest into this module.. thanks all! |
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#3
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I bought my X with an aftermarket wiring harness. Unfortunately it is a 4-flat and I really need a 5-flat, so I recently purchased a 7-round outlet (only plan on hooking up the 5 wires though) that I plan on installing this weeekend.
The other reason for redoing it is that the previous owner did not run the wiring thru the floor pan and out beside the hitch, so whenever using it now I have to run it between the two hatch sections.
__________________
2001 X5 3.0i (PP/WP/AP) Traded at 213K miles RARE White on Black - Why does everyone get Tan?? ![]() First E53 with 215s on XOutpost!! ![]()
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#4
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BMW's lighting system isn't one that you just want to "tap" into. They have all sorts of sensors (current draw, voltage, etc.) that is used to detect when there are problems (bulbs out, etc.). Also, the 2003's have adaptive brake lights which are more than just a simple on/off.
If you do decide not to get the BMW wiring harness, be prepared to have a cluster full of warning lights. Also, the other thing the BMW harness does is it integrates with the PDC system (park distance control) if your X5 has that such that the rear PDC is disabled when the trailer lighting is plugged in. My strong recommendation is to spend the money and get the BMW harness.
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#5
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You can tap into the wiring system at the rear of the car, but you will blow fuses, PDC won't work right, and warning lights all over the place, plus you probably wont get the trailer brake lights, turn signals and driving lights to operate.
BMW uses a multiplex system, not just moving 12 volts to the rear of the car. If you don't know what you are doing you may buy a new computer as well. Think about it... |
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#6
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ok...
Thanks all for your opinions. I will just go that route. Mark |
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#7
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This has not been my experience - the only issue I have had was that I had a bulb socket go out on the side that the wires are tapped into, but as I understand it this is common. No other warning lights whatsoever.
Good luck which ever way you pursue.
__________________
2001 X5 3.0i (PP/WP/AP) Traded at 213K miles RARE White on Black - Why does everyone get Tan?? ![]() First E53 with 215s on XOutpost!! ![]()
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#8
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Hey UCrew!
Quote:
__________________
Frank Current Ride: '04 4.4i Carbon Black Met./Dove Grey NAV, Sprt Pkg, Star Spoke 87's Recently Sold (and still crying about it): '95 Dinan M3 Avus Blue/Dove Grey LTW Wheels and adjustable front splitter |
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#9
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Quote:
__________________
![]() Xoutpost.com - where you come for the information but stay for the friendships |
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#10
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Just an update on this, I installed the aftermarket 7-pin harness and it does work, however, I do occasionally get a "warning" that I have a bulb out on the rear driver's side, which is where the previous owner had tapped the wiring into (this only ocurs when using the harness).
Guess I will eventually go ahead and get the BMW harness. Anyone know where is the cheapest place to purchase one at??
__________________
2001 X5 3.0i (PP/WP/AP) Traded at 213K miles RARE White on Black - Why does everyone get Tan?? ![]() First E53 with 215s on XOutpost!! ![]()
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