2003 X5 Tow Hitch Options

[JCL]

Hard to tell from the part numbers without the pictures, but I would guess no. There are two frame strengtheners (and the list doesn't indicate 2). There is the receiver itself, and the bumper insert that strengthens the bumper since it no longer has the shock absorbers. I think the carrier insert refers to the bumper insert, which would be required in the event of bodywork involving a bumper replacement.

[e30cabrio]

I found the reinforcement on eBay:
BMW E53 x5 Bumper Reinforcement Support Rear Hitch Package 2000 2006 | eBay

I asked if they have the rest of teh parts I need.

[JCL]

The shock absorbers that are originally mounted attach to the old bumper carrier and hold up the bumper. The reinforcement inserts replace those shocks. The new receiver now holds up the bumper, and matches up to the new bumper insert.

All this means that if you take the shocks out, there will be nothing to hold up the bumper. You don't just need the inserts, you need the hitch, and the bumper insert. It all fits together. Unless you use the inserts and custom fabricate a bumper support.

[TerminatorX5]

that connector on the last picture is for the hitch electronics - this particular harness runs from that spot to the battery compartment, where a same connector is fitted, and a trailer module would be plugged in (battery compartment)... the one on the picture connects to the harness that comes from the plug by the hitch and is fed through the grommet hole - the hitch harness has a built-in grommet already...

[e30cabrio]

Originally Posted by JCL

The shock absorbers that are originally mounted attach to the old bumper carrier and hold up the bumper. The reinforcement inserts replace those shocks. The new receiver now holds up the bumper, and matches up to the new bumper insert.

All this means that if you take the shocks out, there will be nothing to hold up the bumper. You don't just need the inserts, you need the hitch, and the bumper insert. It all fits together. Unless you use the inserts and custom fabricate a bumper support.

Understood. Thanks.

Originally Posted by TerminatorX5

that connector on the last picture is for the hitch electronics - this particular harness runs from that spot to the battery compartment, where a same connector is fitted, and a trailer module would be plugged in (battery compartment)... the one on the picture connects to the harness that comes from the plug by the hitch and is fed through the grommet hole - the hitch harness has a built-in grommet already...

Thanks!

Any idea what that rubber "U" (that is broken on the left side) is?

[JCL]

Originally Posted by e30cabrio

Any idea what that rubber "U" (that is broken on the left side) is?

BMW calls it a tension strap. part number 51717033682. It straps things down so they don't rattle.

[e30cabrio]

Thanks!

[dkl]

Yep...that tension strap is used to hold/keep your jack in place. Looks like your jack is missing in those pictures?

[e30cabrio]

The jack is in the left front of the compartment.


I had not looked at the picture on the floor.


What is the plastic hat on the spare tie down that supports the floor called(picture 3)? Mine is broken.

[AquilaBMW]

This is a very interesting topic indeed! I will be calling around this week, including to BavAuto to find out more about their kit.

As it turns out, I NEED to get a hitch on the car as quickly as possible.