x5 2006 trailer hitch

viktor252 · #1 01-17-2008, 10:03 PM

Hi,

Can someone recommend good trailer hitch for X5 2006 and where to buy it? Is it ok to go with OEM? Dealership wants $700 CDN + tax just for the parts - seems too much for me.

Thanks

potxoli · #2 01-18-2008, 09:22 AM

do a search this has been discussed at length. I think the consensus is that aftermarket trailer hitches are crap if you are actually going to tow anything, but might be OK for a bicycle rack.

You really should go OEM and the price seems to be $500 for parts and another $500 for install in the US since you have to take off the rear bumper.

LI-X5 · #3 01-18-2008, 04:30 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by potxoli

do a search this has been discussed at length. I think the consensus is that aftermarket trailer hitches are crap if you are actually going to tow anything, but might be OK for a bicycle rack.

You really should go OEM and the price seems to be $500 for parts and another $500 for install in the US since you have to take off the rear bumper.

+1

JCL · #4 01-18-2008, 04:32 PM

The hitch receiver portion of the aftermarket hitches is fine, but the issue is that the X5 doesn't have a separate frame, it is a unibody structure. The OEM hitch strengthens the rear structure where the hitch attaches, and that makes all the difference.

Yes, it is $700 CDN but it is worth it IMO. I installed mine myself on a 2003 3.0. Make sure you get the combined kit that has the wiring harness/module included, as the hitch comes with and without that wiring connection and it is cheaper to get both together.

If you are handy, you can install it yourself. If not, a good independent shop can install it using the instructions on the X5 world home page. The dealer is an expensive place to get it installed, but probably the most convenient.

DaveNW · #5 01-18-2008, 05:28 PM

Go with OEM. That's what I did, towing a 5000lb travel trailer. It's rock solid, and tows like the trailer isn't even there. Yes, it's expensive to buy, but it's a one-time purchase that will last for the life of your rig. The few hundred dollars you could save by going aftermarket would quickly evaporate if the hitch somehow screwed up your X, or caused your trailer to get damaged.

My hitch installer was a local aftermarket specialty "truck toy" place. They do lots and LOTS of hitches, trailer brakes, and so forth. The guy was very impressed with the quality and stability of the OEM hitch, and said if he could so it, he's sell a hitch that good for all of his installs. I think he was pretty serious.

Dave

X5HogTown · #6 01-18-2008, 08:05 PM

Call Bimmersport (Charlie @ 905.670.9200) in Mississauga and ask for a quote. He probably knows the oem manufacturer. At a minimum, he can save you a bundle on the install.

I bought mine from u-haul and it was C$350, installed. It's rock solid and I have pulled 5200lbs with it. I wouldn't recommend it since it has long stabilizer bar that runs under the truck (pretty ugly imo).