2012 Trailer Hitch
 

Starting a new thread for the 2012 because it looks like the carrier module (where you plug the Trailer control module included into) is not directly below the fuse panel in the right rear of the vehicle as in previous models.


1. does anyone know where it is on the 2012 (see page 13 and 14 of the attachment which shows where it was on the 2010 and where I also understood it to be on the 2011).

2. I don't want to use a modulite because I want the software coding modifications for dynamic stability and park distance and assume dealer will only program this if genuine BMW electrical kit (harness and trailer control module).

Update:

Mystery solved. It looks like the module carrier is simply a plastic mount with slots for various modules...a simple place to organize and hold the modules. If you don't have any options requiring modules, there's no module carrier.

Apologies for such a naive question, but is the OP what BMW means when they advertise a trailer hitch receiver on the 2012 X5?

I don't think I have a 'trailer hitch receiver' on my 2008 4.8i and the sales guy today seemed clueless.

The trailer hitch receiver is a 2" square socket under the rear bumper, into which you install a tow hitch (held in with a pin, removable when not in use).

The trailer control module is a wiring interface that enables trailer lights, and related functions.

I did a search online but obviously did not find any photos. Do you know what keywords would turn up a picture since I'm curious how this looks?

Just use 'hitch'. All X5 models in North America use the receiver style. Euro models use the swan neck style.

Here is a thread with photos:

http://www.xoutpost.com/bmw-sav-foru...hitch-e70.html

Thanks. That answers a lot of my questions.

My 2011 didn't have the module carrier. It along with 3 plastic nuts cost me about $10...I was a bit appalled that I had to buy that to complete my install as I had found another post about an owner here that the BMW dealer put it in for no cost and no charge for parts under warranty. I mean it was $10...but still..the parts rep argued with me that it should be there and I had to bring my car in for them to inspect it before ordering the part. Peeved me just slightly.

Carrier Module
 

My 2012 X5 also did not have the carrier. As I understand it, it you don't have any options requiring the module carrier, you don't get it. Sort of makes sense until you want to add options, after taking delivery.