Trailer Wiring for 2011 BMW X5

Question

Question:

Do you sell the wiring for trailers for the bmw x5?

asked by: Diane C

0

Expert Reply:

Hi Diane!

After looking through our inventory as well as multiple manufacturers, I can confirm there is not a wiring kit available specifically for the 2011 BMW X5 available. Because of that, you will need to use the Curt Powered Tail Light Converter with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector # C59236. This wiring harness is a universal kit and will need to be spliced in. It does come with quick connect snap connectors like TowSmart Wire Splice Connectors # TS67QR, but I highly recommend going with a more secure butt connection like Deka Heat Shrink Butt Connector # DW05744-10. The butt connection does require a crimper like # PTW30764 to install it, but it will last you much longer and provide a better connection. All in, this is a fairly simple install, but it will probably require you to remove some panels or taillights, so if that's not something you feel comfortable with, you could check with one of our trusted installers in your area using the link below.

What do you plan to tow with your X5? Are you planning a trip or just getting the wiring to be prepared for the future?

expert reply by: Jerry B

0

Jeff

7/26/2026

The wire harness works fine on my Hyundai Santa Cruz.I had a service station install it for me.Could not get a factory harness at the time.

Jerry B.

7/27/2026

@Jeff That's perfect! Have you towed a trailer with lights on your Santa Cruz yet? Did you need anything else for the lighting kit?

Glenn P.

7/27/2026

I installed the wiring kit on my 2022 Lincoln Corsair Reserve myself. Two important things, first off I am a licensed electrician. Secondly, I purchased a 12 Volt test light from Advance Auto to use in identifying which wire was for which function. I can't imagine doing the installation without the tester! This was a long and involved process as my wiring harness had about 25 wires to choose from and I could not find any reliable wiring diagrams to identify the individual wires. I would NOT recommend this as a project for the average DIYer. Glenn

Jerry B.

7/28/2026

@GlennP Thanks for your advice and experience! I've honestly never seen the wiring for a Lincoln Corsair Reserve, but after some research it looks like you're spot on. I'm sorry that it was that difficult for you. How do you use the wiring harness on your SUV? Is it for towing or just for accessories like a bike rack or cargo carrier?

Glennp

7/28/2026

The wiring harness is used with the trailer hitch (part # e89YR) I purchased from eTrailer. Both the hitch and the wiring harness work well and have been used to haul a small U-Haul enclosed trailer more than 1400 miles. I found the hitch installation to be moderately difficult after watching a YouTube video specific to my car. The hitch installation required an extra set of hands when first attaching the hitch to my car frame but other than that it was a solo job. Also, rather than grinding the car frame to accommodate the mounting hardware, I instead ground a bit of the flanges on 2 of the flanged nuts. This allowed the hitch to bolt-up using the existing car frame holes without compromising my car frame. I think the installation difficulty is closer to a 5 or 6 out of 10, versus the the score of 3 shown on the website. Overall I am pleased with the hitch, wiring harness, and overall installation. Glenn

Jerry B.

7/28/2026

@Glennp That's awesome feedback for me. I'm saving it for the next neighbor I need to help with the 22 Corsair. Is this your first install or have you installed hitches and/or wiring before?

Answer 1

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Answer 2

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Answer 3

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Answer 4

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Answer 7

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Trailer Wiring for 2011 BMW X5

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