Parts Needed to Get a Hitch and 7-way Installed in a 2012 BMW X5 with No Factory Tow Package

Updated 04/25/2023 | Published 04/24/2023

Products Featured in This Question

etrailer Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Matte Black Finish - Class III - 2"

(30)

$264.99

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

(521)

$192.59

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

(3395)

$121.25

Redarc Tow-Pro Elite Brake Controller - Dash Knob - Off-Road Mode - Up to 3 Axles - Proportional

(1676)

$290.00

Question:

Good afternoon, I have a 2012 BMW X5 35D xdrive/diesel and I am looking to set it up as my to tow vehicle soon. I have a camper that weights about 4200lb 19 Ft/two axle My car currently does not have a factory hitch option/wiring installed. I would like to purchase one of your hitches but also would need a 7 PIn harness and brake controller as my camper has electric brakes. I dont see a 7 way harness/brake controller option for the X5 when I my vehicle on the website optione. Was wondering if you guys could point me in the right direction as to what parts I would need for my setup as BMWs can get finicky when messing with the wiring harness. Thank you

asked by: Sebastian A

Expert Reply:

Since your 2012 BMW X5 currently has nothing, it sounds like you do not have a tow package. Given the lack of tow package and the year/make/model of your vehicle, there are not going to be any plug-n-play options available. I will list out the parts needed below, but if you are hesitant about the installation process, I highly recommend having the installation done by a certified technician.

Trailer Hitch:
- etrailer Trailer Hitch Receiver # e84AR

This is a bolt-on, no-drill installation and has the capacity to handle your 4200 lb. trailer. It does require some trimming of the fascia (this is the case for all the hitches that fit) and a matte black finish that blends in under the vehicle better.

For the 7-way wiring, you will first need to install a 4-way and then adapt it into a 7-way. This is the only option to get a 7-way on your X5.

The ZCI Circuit Protected Vehicle Wiring Harness # 119250KIT will work with your X5 to provide the needed 4-way (splicing is required). You then use the Universal Installation Kit for Trailer Brake Controller # ETBC7 to adapt the 4-way into a 7-way.

Now that you have a 7-way, you can use a brake controller like the Redarc Tow-Pro Elite Brake Controller # RED44FR which will provide a sleek, non-bulky control knob for your brake controller. This is the route I would go for your X5 because it is a much cleaner finish inside your X5. The will require you to splice the wires in, but each available option will.

Again, if this is something the worries you, I highly recommend having it performed by a professional.