Recommended Hitch, Wiring Harness, and Brake Controller for a 2013 BMW X5 35i
Updated 09/07/2022 | Published 09/04/2022
Products Featured in This Question
Question:
Hi I would like to get a list of all of the needed parts that I would need for my BMW X5 35i to Be able to tow the 6000 pound capacity that the vehicle is rated for. The trailers that I have also have brakes so I would need the seven pin connector and I would also need the brake controller. Thank you in advance
asked by: Joseph C
Expert Reply:
I would be happy to help you set up your 2013 BMW X5 35i to tow your trailers. Lets start with a hitch that will reach your X5's full capacity. I recommend the Draw-Tite Max-Frame Trailer Hitch Receiver item # 75600. This hitch is custom fit and bolts directly to your BMW with included hardware.
You're limited in options to have a hitch with a 6,000 lbs capacity but the reason I selected this hitch is because it has a subtle installation profile. The main crosstube is hidden behind the rear bumper leaving only the 2" x 2" receiver exposed. We had a 2013 in our shop not long ago and I have attached a picture and a video below that will show what the final product looks like and the installation steps.
To add a 7-way to your BMW you will need two separate wiring harnesses as there isn't a single part that will provide a 7-way. The first is the Tekonsha ZCI Circuit Protected Vehicle Wiring Harness w/ 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector and Installation Kit item # 119250KIT. This kit clamps to your tail light powers to power a 4-flat connector. It does not require cutting or splicing. I have added an installation video below.
The second harness you will need is the Universal Installation Kit for Trailer Brake Controller - 7-Way RV and 4-Way Flat - 10 Gauge Wires item # ETBC7. The kit includes a pre-wired 7- and 4-way trailer connector that mounts easily at the rear of your vehicle with an included bracket. This kit is designed for use on a vehicle with an existing 4-way flat trailer connector and plugs directly into it.
To control your trailer's brakes you will also need a brake controller. I recommend the Redarc Tow-Pro Liberty Brake Controller item # RED24FR. The Tow-Pro Liberty has a unique installation method where the main unit is concealed behind your dash and the only visible part is the control knob. To complete the installation you will also need the Universal Wiring Harness for Redarc Tow-Pro Trailer Brake Controllers item # RED69FR.
To round out your towing setup I recommend the Curt Towing Starter Kit for 2" Hitches item # C45534. This towing kit will provide you with a 2" ball and a fixed ball mount with a 3/4" rise and 2" drop. It also includes a hitch pin and clip, hitch receiver lock with keys, hitch cover, and a storage case.
(click to enlarge)
Featured Help Information
Miscellaneous Media
Continue Researching
- Q&A: Trailer Hitch Recommendation that Fits 2013 BMW X5 M Package
- Shop: Trailer Wiring
- Shop: Brake Controller
- Shop: Trailer Hitch
- Video: Set up: Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver on a 2013 BMW X5
- Shop: Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class III - 2"
- Shop: Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class III - 2"
- Shop: EcoHitch Stealth Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class III - 2"
- Shop: Curt T-Connector Vehicle Wiring Harness with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector
- Shop: Stealth Hitches Hidden Trailer Hitch Receiver w/ Towing Kit - Custom Fit - 2"
- Shop: Stealth Hitches Hidden Rack Receiver - Custom Fit - 2"
- Search Results: trailer hitch
- Q&A: What is the Difference Between a Class II and a Class III Hitch?
- Article: Brake Controller 7- and 4-Way Installation Kit (ETBC7)
- Video: How to Choose a Trailer Brake Controller
- Shop: Curt Powered Tail Light Converter with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector
- Search Results: trailer wiring
- Article: Trailer Wiring Diagrams
- Q&A: What is the Difference Between a 4-Way and 7-Way Trailer Connector
- Video: Feature Breakdown: Universal Installation Kit for Trailer Brake Controller
- Search Results: trailer tires and wheels
- Q&A: Comparing the Curt Hitch C13416 and EcoHitch Hitch 306-X7396 for a 2019 Toyota RAV4
- Article: How to Choose the Right Trailer Hitch Class
- Video: Curt T-Connector Vehicle Wiring Harness Review C56040
- Shop: Suspension Enhancement
- Q&A: Clearance Differences Between Hitches For A 2026 Honda Odyssey EX-L
- Video: Clean Up Your Trailer Wiring
- Search Results: trailer brake controller
- Article: How to Measure for Trailer Hitch Drop
- Article: Wiring Trailer Lights with a 7-Way Plug (It's Easier Than You Think)
on Trailer Hitch
