How to Add a Brake Controller to a 2015 BMW X5

Updated 07/10/2018 | Published 07/09/2018

Products Featured in This Question

Tekonsha Prodigy P3 Trailer Brake Controller - 1 to 4 Axles - Proportional

(6643)

$155.79

Wiring Kit for 2, 4, 6, and 8 Brake Electric Trailer Brake Controllers

(159)

$56.26

etrailer Ball Mount Kit for 2" Hitches - 7,500 lbs

(1375)

$93.58

Universal Installation Kit for Trailer Brake Controller - 7-Way RV and 4-Way Flat - 10 Gauge Wires

(3397)

$121.25

Question:

I have a dealer installed class 3 hitch and wiring harness. I am now looking to tow an ultra-lite travel trailer. Do I need to purchase a seperate brake controller? Is there a way I can tell if I have one installed. Do you make a 2 5/16 ball that will fit on my BMW factory installed hitch? Thank you

asked by: Dan

Expert Reply:

A brake controller will only be necessary if the trailer you will be towing has brakes. The easiest way to tell whether or not the trailer has brakes would be to look at the trailer side connector. If the trailer side connector has 7 pins then it will more than likely have brakes.

If the trailer does have brakes then I recommend using the Tekonsha Prodigy P3 Trailer Brake Controller part # 90195 as this is one of our most popular options. It has integrated safeguards to protect both the vehicle/trailer and it runs continuous diagnostic checks for safety. Your vehicle did not come with a trailer brake controller from the factory so chances are you do not have one unless it was installed aftermarket.

In order to use a brake controller you will also need a functioning 7-way trailer connector on the vehicle. There was an option for a factory 7-way on your 2015 BMW X5 so if this is the case then the only other thing you need is the wiring kit part # 5506 unless there are blunt cut wires under the dash for a brake controller. If your X5 did not come with a factory 7-way then you will want to use the Universal Install Kit part # ETBC7 and hook that up to your existing 4-way.

In order to choose the proper ball mount you will want to take a look at the attached help article and then choose from the selection I have attached for you. The Ball Mount Kit part # 989900 is a great starter kit for most vehicles that comes with a 2-5/16" hitch ball though you will need to verify the rise/drop is correct for you.