2021 BMW X5 Trailer Wiring and Curt Echo Brake Controller Solution  

Question:

Expert Reply:

Hi Guy, great questions!

For your 2021 X5 without the factory tow package, there isn’t a true plug and play option, so the best route is to start with the Curt powered converter part # C59236. This will give you a 4-way flat connector for your basic trailer lighting functions, but it does require splicing into the vehicle’s wiring.

From there, you can use the part # ETBC7 kit to upgrade to a 7-way connector. This kit includes everything needed to add the 7-way and run a 12 volt power line from the battery, which is required if your trailer has electric brakes. The installation does involve splicing into the vehicle’s brake light switch, so some customers choose to have a professional handle that part. On BMWs like yours, finding the correct stoplight signal wire is difficult, so the Roadmaster Universal Stop Light Switch Kit
Part # RM-751000 would be needed.

It sounds like you are going to be getting a brake controller. Instead of trying to tap into the stop light switch wire or buying the stop light switch, you can use a wireless brake controller like the Curt Echo part # C51180. It plugs directly into the 7-way at the back of the vehicle and operates through your phone, so it doesn’t need that traditional brake signal wire at all. As long as you have the 7-way installed with a functioning 12 volt power line, the Echo can handle braking without any additional wiring into the vehicle.

That makes it a much cleaner option for vehicles like your X5 where you want to avoid digging into the factory wiring.

If you can share what you’re planning to tow, I can help you decide if you’ll need to go further with a brake controller or if this setup will cover everything.

expert reply by: Heather A

0