BMW X5 E53 DIY OEM Hitch Installation Notes and factory installation PDF

[PropellerHead]

Originally Posted by PandaTrader

Love your metal bar below your front spoiler. Do you know where I could get that? Could you post that pic in the thread so we have it a little bigger than your avatar.

Thanks

Check this thread for the larger pics.

And this one for the install pics and a few install tips. I think they're still available from Tischer BMW/ getbmwparts.com. Part number 51130392164. $1300.

[x5glenn]

That was the best DIY project I have ever done. Turned out great. Thanks for the info!

[CrazyOneToo]

[QUOTE=X5Boise;872643]I recently installed the OEM BMW hitch on my 2005 E53 4.4i. I thought I’d jot down some linear and easy to follow notes to help others. As the BMW instructions were scattered and at times confusing, I thought I’d make my own guide. Hope this helps others in tackling this project (not to mention saving on a $600-700 installation fee)......


Does this hitch setup hide under the bumper and allow the hitch cover to be put back into place? I would use mine maybe once or twice a year and would rather it be concealed the rest of the time. Your instruction are detailed enough I think maybe even I could install this. Thanks for the great write up.

[e30cabrio]

I don't have a hitch cover but my hitch sticks out past where it would be so I guess the answer is no.

[CrazyOneToo]

Originally Posted by e30cabrio

I don't have a hitch cover but my hitch sticks out past where it would be so I guess the answer is no.

Is it OEM? I'll get the OEM hitch to keep the tow capacity up high.

[e30cabrio]

The hitch is, wiring is not.

It sits just like this oem one:
http://www.xoutpost.com/articles/x5/...tion-tips.html

[AquilaBMW]

I recently found a Hitch Kit at a Dealer for $495. I guess that is the going price these days.

I have some questions though. The parts guy said it comes with the Wiring Kit, but there is no mention of the Trailer Module. I asked about this and so far four dealers / parts guys have said the kit is all the car needs.

I have a 2003 X5 4.4L. Can anyone please help with this. I just need to know if I need to buy more things in addition to the kit?

Thanks!

[brptrailrider]

mine came with the module and wiring and all the mounting hardware..

[AquilaBMW]

Originally Posted by brptrailrider

mine came with the module and wiring and all the mounting hardware..

Cool! Thanks! I will check the box before I leave the dealership. I am kinda excited that I actually found one of these things. Hope it's not the wrong item.

[Giznaz]

The trailer module only provides lights and certain programming functions.

What it does not provide is brake control, if you tow heavier trasilers.

You will need a brake controller for that function, I used a Tekonsha Prodigy P3.