2011 hitch install diy? - Page 3

jimk · #21 04-22-2011, 08:13 AM

Mine took overnight too and it failed the first time so they had to redo it. The update codes other modules in the car as well.

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firedawgs · #22 04-22-2011, 09:15 PM

Picked up my X5 this morning. The programming took overnight, but it took the first try. The dealership tried to charge more than quoted, but it did not fly. Final price was $475 labor. I am really glad that I had them install the hitch. The piece of mind of cutting the bumper alone was worth it. Now I can tow my ATV and rent a pop-up this year. I wonder what the MPG is when towing a full load of 5-6K lbs. Max load with the OEM hitch is 6K lbs trailer and 600lb tongue wait; which is very impressive I think.

IndyRon · #23 04-23-2011, 08:57 PM

I recently towed approximately 3000lbs tandem seadoo's with trailer and I averaged 22mpg doing 75 on my 800 mile trip with a truckload of stuff in the back. Didn't even know they were back there on my 35d.

ard · #24 05-08-2011, 02:18 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by firedawgs

The reprogramming is 1 hr labor.

I was also asking for comparison of what others have paid for this install. Does it seem like a reasonable deal?

BMWs official instructions- this is the 'bible' for BMW work- says 2.5 hours.

It would seem to be very hard for BMW to justrify more than 2.5 hours. $140 and hour is 350. 120 and hour is 300.

And the posted document explicitly states that the 2.5 hours INCLUDES programming- and any other required programming should be charged separately (and billed to warranty)

As we know, the whole 'hitch thing' is an opportunity for the dealer to make more profit, with sales reps quoting whatever they can get away with.....

tbeahm · #25 05-08-2011, 12:27 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by jdbretz

The DIY install is not that hard at all. Below I have attached the instructions for the wiring and OEM hitch install. It goes step by step and very simple. If you have a few hours and some patience you can easily do it yourself. I can't speak for the LCI, but I would imagine it is going to be just as simple seeing as the only real change is the rear bumper cover. You will need to purchase a plastic rivet tool ($30) if you plan on doing this install yourself. After the install you will still need to go to the dealership and have the software coding done to ensure the additional module functions correctly and the DSC software gets updated to compensate for trailer sway. Either way its still substantially cheaper than the dealership, and if you're as particular as I am, you'll do a better job than the dealer. Let me know if you have any questions.

Awesome, thanks for posting this. My hitch package from BMW didn't have the instructions included. Wish me luck!

dlauziere · #26 05-10-2011, 12:15 AM

I have to make the installation of the execuhitch which seems very easy. My only question for the ones that did the Execuhitch installation.... What about the electric wiring for a 2009?. Easy ?