Market for factory trailer hitch?
 

I understand these factory hitches are NLA.
Is there a market for used hitches?

Yes. But it should include the receiver, the reinforcement inserts, the different bumper carrier, and the electrical connections, not just the hitch. All of that was included in the original dealer supplied kit.

Yep I just scored one from an dismantler of a 2005 4.8is in Rancho CA. I did a search and found this IS and said to myself, if the owner took the time to buy an E53 4.8is then the only hitch that owner would use to outfit their IS would be the real OEM factory one. Sure enough I called the dismantler and asked if they could take a look at the hitch and tell me who it was made by. He called me back in 5 minutes after we spoke and said its a Westfalia hitch. I was like sold. After they removed the hitch, he sent me pictures of all the components. These hitches are extremely rare but incredibly well built vs the aftermarket systems.

Greg if you are serious about getting one I may be able to help you with part of it.

I am also in need of a factory hitch and so far have come up short on Ebay, craigslist, and various dismantlers. If I can't find a hitch it might force me to sell the vehicle (which I do not want to do) because I need to use the X5 to tow a kart trailer. Like a lot of you I do not want to install an aftermarket hitch. I have been fortunate enough to find an OE BMW wiring harness and towing module, but need all the mechanical bits.

If anyone has a lead or can help me out in sourcing a factory hitch it will be much appreciated!

Greg

I'm in the same boat. Seems the few places i called on the east coast told me they have it, then i show up and nope, they don't.

Unlike most folks, I have a hitch, and don't want one.
Trying to test the market to see if it's worth removing.

I am very interested if you are willing to part with it.

Greg

If you remove the factory hitch, youll need to replace the bumper support (for lack of a better description (Realoem.com part # 51717019019 ) 51717019019
I had to remove it when i installed my factory hitch too. i have a spare if anyone requires it when they delete the hitch assembly. PM me

[QUOTE=AV8R4AA;1050477]Unlike most folks, I have a hitch, and don't want one.
Trying to test the market to see if it's worth removing.[/QUOT

You will need to determine if the hitch you have is a genuine OEm hitch or aftermarket. That will help you determine if its worth removing or not.