Towing with the X5 - Page 2

ECS Tuning · #1 01-19-2012, 12:34 PM

The OEM hitch kit is the way to go in my opinion. OEM fitment is always nice and the hitch kit includes module and wiring harness needed for a complete plug and play installation. We have the genuine BMW hitch kit available HERE.

ECS Tuning

DaveInVa · #2 01-19-2012, 12:55 PM

Can the plug and play wiring module be purchased separately?

ECS Tuning · #3 01-19-2012, 12:57 PM

Quote:

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 · #4 01-19-2012, 01:13 PM

Quote:

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 · #5 01-19-2012, 01:26 PM

Quote:

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

DaveInVa · #6 01-19-2012, 04:58 PM

What exactly does this module do?

Quote:

Originally Posted by ECS Tuning

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

ECS Tuning

JCL · #7 01-19-2012, 05:27 PM

Plugs into the vehicle wiring harness, reading the multi-plexed signals and taking power directly for the trailer wiring harness.

Tells the vehicle that a trailer may be connected.

Provides an interface for the trailer wiring harness that runs down to the hitch receiver. From this interface to the trailer the wiring is direct, ie traditional, with no multi-plexing.

If the trailer wiring harness has a trailer plugged into it, it then tells the vehicle to turn off the rear PDC (because it will beep due to the presence of the trailer drawbar) and to use the Trailer Stability Control mode in the DSC if severe sway is encountered.

Importantly, this module does not provide a trailer brake controller if you choose to use electric trailer brakes. That is a separate device.

DaveInVa · #8 01-19-2012, 05:30 PM

ahhh...thank you! Pretty important piece of kit.

Appreciate the thorough explanation.

RickM5X3 · #9 01-19-2012, 11:07 PM

False economy on those aftermarket hitches. Skip a few meals out and get the BMW hitch for all the reasons above.

Occasionally I'll search for used X5s on autotrader. I immediately SKIP those with the non-BMW hitch, as I take it as a sign that the owner probably likes to cut corners elsewhere too.

PersonaNonGrata · #10 01-19-2012, 03:27 PM

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.