Trailer Hitch for X5d E70 LCI
 

Hello, I am looking to get the OEM hitch installed on 2012 X5d. It seems that the part has been redesigned so that there is less of a cut out opening or there is some kind of cover (see p/n 71602185557). Can someone clarify what do I need to get the latest and greatest OEM hitch put on the car?

No redesign ... the part you referred to is just a metal trim piece, no cover:

Thanks... from the description it sounded as if it was an updated part of some kind. Still the same old giant hole, oh well. Another question I have is what should I expect to pay for hitch and labor at the dealer. Is $1,500 + tax a reasonable amount?

NO! Outrageous amount ...

Buy the kit, with wiring harness + trim pieces on line for around $500+ (shipping on this thing is heavy, 80lbs or so!). Use ShopBMWUSA.com: Shop Original BMW Parts, Accessories and Apparel and pick a center. Flemington BMW in NJ has the lowest price. Installation is 2 to 3 hrs. If you're handy, you can do this yourself.

Are you gong to be using this to tow, or as a bike rack? If towing, the trailer module (AHM) will have to be coded in order for it to function properly with the trailer lights. And if you want the trailer hitch zoom feature, the computer will have to be custom coded as well by a 3rd party (can do this remotely on line. If you choose this route, you can include to code a whole host of other custom features for the same price).

All 'n all, you should be able to get it all done for half the price the dealer is quoting you AND get some neat features that are available on a hidden menu in your car.

You sound leery of cutting your rear bumper….I would be too.

Have you considered Execuhitch? No cutting required, and nothing is visible when the hitch is not in use.
BMW Hitches :: BMW X5 & X5M - Execuhitch - Manufacturer and Retailer of Hidden Tow Hitches for BMW, Mercedes, Subaru

Thanks for the info! I plan to tow airstream trailer, so 4,500-5,000 lbs. prefer to go with OEM to make sure there are no issues, plus car is still under warranty for another year or so.

I recommend TRIPL3_O Coding (See attached PDF for contact info and coding details).

Good luck!

Execuhitch Products

Check out the link above. A little pricey but worth the money for not having a big square hole in your bumper. I used a factory harness so that all of the trailer control features work as well.