Which Panel Needs Trimmed To Install Draw-Tite Trailer Hitch On a 2019 BMW X5

Published 10/31/2019

Question:

I saw the diagram of cutting a hole 3x5 inch. Can you further explain the location of the cut occur? Such as unpainted or painted area, metal or plastic portion, bumper or underside of undercarridge?

asked by: Peter

Expert Reply:

Yes, the panel that you must trim for the Draw-Tite Max-Frame Trailer Hitch Receiver part # 76288 which is a fit for a 2019 BMW X5 is an unpainted plastic splash guard which is located under the rear bumper fascia, not on the actual rear bumper fascia. If you take a quick peek directly under the rear bumper fascia you will see an unpainted plastic splash guard attached to this and this will be the part that is trimmed using the diagram below. This splash guard is not visible from outside the vehicle so you don't have to worry about affecting the overall look of the vehicle. I understand most people are not going to want to do any trimming on a new high end vehicle but this is very minor and will be required no matter what.

If you like, the splash guard could be easily replaced if the hitch is ever removed from the vehicle which will bring everything back to stock 100%.

expert reply by: Conner L