What Parts Are Needed To Tow a Trailer with a 2016 BMW X5 That Has Trailer Coupling Prep S8SLA

Updated 09/04/2019 | Published 09/02/2019

Products Featured in This Question

EcoHitch Stealth Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class III - 2"

(13)

$481.99

ZCI Circuit Protected Vehicle Wiring Harness w/ 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector and Installation Kit

(525)

$187.92

Adapter 4-Pole to 7-Pole and 4-Pole

(663)

$31.52

Question:

Im in the process of buying a 2016 X5 that has the option S8SLA Trailer Coupling Prep. Do I need a wiring harness such as this one, or does this BMW option replace that? What do I need? I only need 4 wire connector for now, but if not too expensive, would prefer to install the 7 wire connector.

asked by: Mark H

Expert Reply:

According to my research, the BMW Trailer Coupling Prep Package S8SLA contain a pre-wired pigtail for use with a plug-in style trailer wiring harness but not the actual trailer wiring harness nor a trailer hitch. That said, this plug-in style trailer wiring harness can only be obtained though the dealer. If you don't want to go through the dealer then we can offer you the ZCI Circuit Protected Vehicle Wiring Harness part # 119250KIT which although does not use the above plug it also does not require any splicing (see video). In order for this to be converted to a 7-way you will need the Adapter 4-Pole to 7-Pole and 4-Pole part # 37185.

For a trailer hitch, I highly recommend the EcoHitch Stealth Trailer Hitch Receiver part # 306-X7265 because it is the only option for you with a removable receiver tube so you can retain a 100% factory like appearance and it does not require any cutting or drilling. I have attached a photo with the receiver tube inserted as well.

expert reply by: Conner L