Personally, I think this should be an available factory option. If I didn't need trailer towing, I'd be waiting for a refreshed 2008 535xi. I'm guessing many owners will use their SAV to pull a trailer of some sort.

I agree that the hitch should be a factory option. Also, it is apparent that if you want an electric brake controller (required for heavier trailers) the wiring needs to be routed all the way to the back to make the connection. Some vehicles (e.g. Land Rover) have a plug-in connector in the front for a brake controller.

Just a heads up to anyone wondering about the hitch install. According to the BMW installation instructions this is a 2 1/2 hour job. It is NOT. I have my X5 at the dealer having the hitch installed and have watched and talked to the tech completeing the install. He has been working on it for 4 hours and it is still not complete. Should be completed Monday, he has to finish up the wiring. One thing that is important is the computer has to be programmed before the install begins so I don't think this is not a "driveway job". Anyways, this is the Dealership's top technician and he said that he has installed numerous hitches on BMW's and this is not a 2 /12 hour job. The hitch looks massive bolted on, can't wait till it's complete. Anyone else have the hitch installed? How long did it take?

Denalio, could you post some pics of your installed hitch?

I was supposed to pick it up today. However, we got hit with a winter storm and 25 inches of snow overnight. Maybe tomorrow. I will post pics when I have it.

Thanks, I didn't know what part of Canada you were in. We have the same storm here in New Hampshire, so I know what you mean. What did you decide about snow tires?

Actually, I bought a set of 19" sport package rims with all season tires. The dealer had someone who ordered thier X5 with the style 211 and did not want them. I bought them for $1,900.00. I will use these until I can put the 20"'s back on.:thumbup:

That sounds like a good deal. Let us know how the tires are in the snow.

I tried for a couple of Saturdays to install the hitch but it was either too cold or raining or both so I took it to the dealer, cost was $516 plus the hitch and trim piece.

Let me say, the hitch camera feature is the coolest feature ever. The rearview camera gives a clear image and shows you 4" and 8" distance rings and a variable path, I can put it dead on center over the hitch ball with absolutely no drama and no sighter...I love it.

I asked the dealer how to access this feature and they said it was only for the Euro cars, doofus. To get to it push iDrive when in reverse and you see Hitch Camera below Camera Panning in the pop up menu.

Anyone know how to turn the park distance beeper off, the trailer sets it off to a continuous tone.

I've just picked up a 6X12 V front Haulmark trailer, I'll try to take a pic next time it's loaded with Ducatis. :thumbup:

Is this a second camera installed??