Rear Facia Removal

[Randy]

Thanks Ranchhand for the great info! I might have been tugging for awhile before I found those bolts behind the reflectors.

The dealer called and said that my retaining pins are in so perhaps I will tackle that hitch install this weekend! (and I don't even have to document it thanks to your efforts!)

[bsklar]

Can you post the after pics?? Does anyone know if BMW is planning a cover concept when not in use.

[Outrageous]

Ranchhand, thanks for posting the pics. Did you remove the reflector by reaching behind the bumper to release it, or did you slide a screwdriver behind it? Let us know how the "reprogramming" works out, since the directions make it sound like it needs to be done before you restart the engine.

[ranchhand]

Reach behind the bumper to remove the reflector. I used two screwdrivers
about 18 inches long.(That was all I had)

You get a plug to cover the reciever opening but that is it.
The opening is not to bad except for the shiny mufler that can be seen
from a distance. Will ask the dealer if it can be painted black without altering the heat disapating properties.

If you need a hitch, there is no choice unless you come up with something
that fits the receiver opening and covers the cutout.

Drawtite/Hiddenhitch products will be installed the same way as the BMW
hitch.

I have one picture I can post now. Not a good angle though.

[ranchhand]

Current picture of finished product.

[X5FX]

can you still install the aero kit with the hitch?

[ranchhand]

Sorry, missed part of the message.

Am scheduled for programming on Wednesday. Dealer did not see a problem
with running the car until then.

(It knows the anti sway module is there but can't use it
so I receive a beep set once each time I run the car.)

[ranchhand]

Don't know about the aero kit and the hitch - sorry.

[Outrageous]

Thanks for the follow-up on the reflector removal. The bit about the software makes sense--I couldn't see how it would be critical to do the update immediately.

[X5FX]

looks like the aero/hitch combo is not possible. this is from BMW site:

Aerodynamic Kit
Upgrade they way your BMW X5 looks and drives. Tailored to accentuate the X5's sporty appearance as well as impact its performance. A perfect balance of function and style. (Only with standard bumpers. Not in combination with Trailer Hitch Kit)