Towing with the X5

[DaveInVa]

Can the plug and play wiring module be purchased separately?

[ECS Tuning]

Originally Posted by DaveInVa

Can the plug and play wiring module be purchased separately?

My notes from BMW say no it cannot be purchased separate from the Kit.

ECS Tuning

[DaveInVa]

Originally Posted by ECS Tuning

My notes from BMW say no it cannot be purchased separate from the Kit.

ECS Tuning

Does is help if you have a part number?
Wiring Harness 71 60 6 009 698 - Fits 4.4i and 3.0i X5 models.

[ECS Tuning]

Originally Posted by DaveInVa

Does is help if you have a part number?
Wiring Harness 71 60 6 009 698 - Fits 4.4i and 3.0i X5 models.

I'm getting an incorrect part number report back from BMW when I run that number.

Now we do have the Trailer Towing Module found HERE and seen in the photo below.



I can also bring in the trailer wiring which goes from the X5 to the trailer if that's what you're referencing. A few different styles of that are available depending on your setup. They can all be found HERE




ECS Tuning

[TiAgX5]

Originally Posted by DaveInVa

I'm also on the hunt for a trailer hitch. etrailer.com shows two distinct designs for the X5; along with the normal attachment points the Draw-Tite and Hidden Hitch models have an additional 'leg' that connects to a cross member whereas the Curt unit only bolts up to the factory locations behind the bumper fascia.

I have yet to see what the factory hitch looks like but I'm leaning towards the extra support and towing capacity (6k# Vs. 5k#) of the Draw-Tite hitch even though the installation is a little more involved.

Comments?

I have the Draw-Tite unit on the left. I have well over 2k miles towing a 6k lb trailer with no issues, even at 90 mph.

[Ghost-Flame]

Originally Posted by TiAgX5

I have the Draw-Tite unit on the left. I have well over 2k miles towing a 6k lb trailer with no issues, even at 90 mph.

That's the one I have as well its very beefy. I believe it is 6500 lb hitch,not sure though.
It has a very positive solid 3 point hitch to the frame and is ton cheaper.

You don't tow with the bumper why would rebuilding the bumper be an advantage?

More OE coolaide,imho, to charge$ 3 or 4 times its worth. And seperate the
Consumer from his/her money.

Edit:
6000 tow weight
600 tounge weight

[anthony1k]

Both my brother-in-law and I tow race cars behind X5s with the 3.0 motor for years without any problems. Both trucks have Draw-Tite 6,000 lbs hitches installed. They are the ones with the extra brace. Although I am not convinced that the brace offers any benefit. Installation was very easy as I remember.

In addition to the hitch you will need the factory towing module. It is used to powers the lights on the trailer. This ran around $250 from the dealer a few years ago. Also, if you plan to be using a trailer with electric brakes you will need a brake controller. There are several sold that pretty much do the same thing. I do not remember the make of mine. There are also many DYI postings on how to hook that up. IMO most are much more complicated that need to be. Feel free to contact me if you need additional information on how I hooked up mine.

[PersonaNonGrata]

The OEM vs. aftermarket hitch debate has been a hot topic. I recall seeing some posts where there were users of aftermarket hitches that experienced some significant problems. Then there are users of the Draw-Tite that seem to be fine. I don't have a trailer hitch but if I needed one, I'd go with the OEM hitch just to be safe. The fact that ECS has the OEM unit for $430 seals the deal. It's a very reasonable price to pay for OEM and peace of mind.

Ghost Flame: Your dealer is clearly trying to rip you off. $1800 is ridiculous! You can the OEM hitch from ECS and there are excellent DIY installation instructions here.

[TiAgX5]

Originally Posted by PersonaNonGrata

The OEM vs. aftermarket hitch debate has been a hot topic. I recall seeing some posts where there were users of aftermarket hitches that experienced some significant problems. Then there are users of the Draw-Tite that seem to be fine. I don't have a trailer hitch but if I needed one, I'd go with the OEM hitch just to be safe. The fact that ECS has the OEM unit for $430 seals the deal. It's a very reasonable price to pay for OEM and peace of mind.

Ghost Flame: Your dealer is clearly trying to rip you off. $1800 is ridiculous! You can the OEM hitch from ECS and there are excellent DIY installation instructions here.

I wish someone would have taken a pic of one of the failures.

[PersonaNonGrata]

Originally Posted by TiAgX5

I wish someone would have taken a pic of one of the failures.

Sorry I can't remember the exact details. I've been around this X5 forum stuff for too long!

I think it was a Curt hitch and it torqued his entire frame. It was on xoutpost (x5world) or possibly the BMW forum that will remain unnamed from which we fled to start this forum.