I have a Hidden Hitch that I haven't installed yet, it should appear similar to yours, just sitting under the bumper. Still debating whether I need to mess with installing the electrical controller and deal with the error codes, since I will only use it for a bike rack. But then again, I may need it if I decide to get a jetski or something...

I assume you have a controller under the bumper as well?

This looks like the most economical fix.....for now

My dealer wants $1200 for the BMW hitch and installation. Unbelievable.

I found a local hitch company that sells a Draw-Tite model for the X5. It looks just like the BMW hitch, except the receiver sits just below the bumper. No need to cut a hole out of the bumper. They also use the BMW OEM wiring harness. Total with labor and taxi it is only $662.

Because the price is 1/2 and I don't have to have the large opening cut out of the bumper, I'll likely go with this setup. I might have the dealer re-program the car for the hitch.

Anyone had any experience with a Draw-Tite hitch on an X5?

I believe you lose the mounting points for the 2 "tow hooks". These don't come with non-oem hitchs... see my pics in the other thread I posted the link for.

I painted the shinny part of the exhaust that shows on the TH with "grill" paint. 3-4 coats and bottle says it could withstand heat up to 1200degF. Now it looks uniform from the rear view just like M3Armand's pics. :thumbup: