I know this question has been asked above but I'm reposting to keep the question as relevant as possible.

Does anyone know if the 2011 X6M allows for a tow-hitch. My dealer told me it was NOT possible and I saw one post above that made the argument that it's not possible but I'm looking for some evidence so I can put the issue to bed or dig deeper.
While I don't really want to tow anything, I do want to add a tow hitch-mounted (mountain) bike rack. I know there are plenty of bike racks that don't require a tow hitch but the only i like, slides into the hitch and conveniently pivots down so one can open the tailgate. (it also acts as a fantastic bumper for rear-enders).
BMW offers a bike rack that plugs into special holes in the back of the car but it's kinda a PIA to take on and off.
I'm also open to suggestions on convenient bike racks if anyone has any idea?
Thanks for any suggestions.

For the right amount of money, anyone can install a custom tow hitch on your X. Harbor Freight sells a simple tow hitch receiver, then run to your nearest custom fabricator, 4x4, etc and see what they think they can do. Since you're not towing 3000lb trailers, it's not like it's going to require a huge amount of fabrication.

any subsequent thoughts to the whole hitch issue?

found a thread on bimmer forums stating the "resonator" would interfer with hitch install. I guess the poster meant exhaust not resonator is kinda in the middle of the vehicle. If exhaut fab is required then i have someone that can do it.

yesterday at Lime rock (ALMS race) i saw a x5m flying through the esses seemingly about as fast as i go with my r compound shod m3.!!!!

dang i want this darn truck...want have only one car plated (for me) save insurance reg and car tax. just need towability for the race/track car.

i was told its not possible by my dealership and just by looking at the rear i dont see where it would go as is..

Getting one installed on my 2010 x5m tomorrow. The trim piece was finally released last week. All 2011 X5's, from what I hear, have a coding issue but it should be resolved in the coming weeks.

I will post some pics once its on.

so your bumper will have a different design around the hitch then ?

1st pic of the hitch
 

Here is it. The trim piece is actually a piece of rubber that covers the cut in the bumper.

What are you going to tow and if you don't mind me asking what was the total bill for the hitch plus install..

I just called my SA and ordered this....FINALLY!!!! I'll be towing my lotus exige race car on an open trailor or my track bikes!!!

BTW Mswaz....ill be up in the seattle area on the 30th if you want to hear the eisenmann race exhaust!

Well the hitch is on and I hooked up my trailer to test it out. Bad news. The brake lights do not work. I tried on multiple trailers too. The check control says check trailer brakes, so the car knows they arent working. My dealer thinks its a coding issue. I am not sure if this is the same coding issue the 2011's have.


I will be towing a jet ski and a 17' boston whaler. I paid $825 installed.