Is the E53 tow hook the same as all other models?
 

Is our stock tow hook universal among all other bmw models? Im looking for a tow hook license plate mount and there is only one option I can find and thats the Bav auto kit. Feels a little pricey for $70. I can find much cheaper ones that fit the e39, e36, etc so maybe they fit the e53 as well? Cant find the part # for the tow hook itself to check realoem.

I don't know but it is VERY easy to find out. If you already know what the 11 digit BMW part nbr is for the e53's tow hook...you can do a part nbr search on sites like RealOEM.com * Online BMW Parts Catalog.

If you don't know what the part nbr is...you can look it up on RealOEM.com Online BMW Parts Catalog ...then do a part nbr search. The search will list every BMW model that uses that 11 digit part nbr...then you can shop for a used one knowing all of the BMW models that use the same tow hook.

Good luck...and pulling up the diagram/part nbr index based on your X5's VIN will also let you know if there's a TO/FROM date range for the tow hook. You may find that not all e53's use the same tow hook. Its best to look first before buying...so you'll know what to buy and where to look. :)

Edit: the e53 uses different tow hooks based on build date:

1. E53's with build dates up to 3/2002 share the same tow hook with these BMW models: RealOEM.com * Part Cross-reference
2. E53's with build dates from 3/2002-up share the same tow hook with these BMW models: RealOEM.com * Part Cross-reference

Qsilver7 comes to the freaken rescue!!