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Options
ISO Assistance - 7 pin connection for 2017 BMW X5
Bonalexander
Member Posts: 26
Hi T@b family!
I am in search of some assistance. I recently purchased a 2017 BMW X5 (and am throughly enjoying it thus far). The purpose of the purchase was for space, tow capacity and to give my 2 puppers extra space on long journeys. When I bought the car from the BMW dealership they noted for what I am towing it wouldn't be worth me spending the $3,000 price tag the dealership would charge and instead they recommended an auto body shop that would do it for $800. Well after getting off the phone with said auto body shop I am thoroughly disappointed as they noted they would not do the work noting the electrical wiring is not worth it for them and if I found someone to do it I may result in having electrical issues down the line.
What kills me is I did my homework before I bought this car and know it is possible. I have watched the installations on the hitch receivers and the ZCI Circuit Protected Wiring Harness and even feel this DIY'er can get that part done, but the ZCI is only a 4 pin so I would run into issues finding a break controller and have yet to see any installation videos for that.
Here's where I am hoping this great big family of mine can come into play and help me out with... Is anyone towing their t@b with a 2017 BMW X5? If so, who did your trailer work (7 pin, brake controller & hitch installation)? If you did it yourself did you run into any know or unforeseen issues? Did you also have a sway controller installed? Have you since had any issues with your setup?
I am ultimately praying I didn't make a bad decision buying this BMW and that someone here can turn my newly installed frown upside down!
Thanks in advance for your time and assistance!
I am in search of some assistance. I recently purchased a 2017 BMW X5 (and am throughly enjoying it thus far). The purpose of the purchase was for space, tow capacity and to give my 2 puppers extra space on long journeys. When I bought the car from the BMW dealership they noted for what I am towing it wouldn't be worth me spending the $3,000 price tag the dealership would charge and instead they recommended an auto body shop that would do it for $800. Well after getting off the phone with said auto body shop I am thoroughly disappointed as they noted they would not do the work noting the electrical wiring is not worth it for them and if I found someone to do it I may result in having electrical issues down the line.
What kills me is I did my homework before I bought this car and know it is possible. I have watched the installations on the hitch receivers and the ZCI Circuit Protected Wiring Harness and even feel this DIY'er can get that part done, but the ZCI is only a 4 pin so I would run into issues finding a break controller and have yet to see any installation videos for that.
Here's where I am hoping this great big family of mine can come into play and help me out with... Is anyone towing their t@b with a 2017 BMW X5? If so, who did your trailer work (7 pin, brake controller & hitch installation)? If you did it yourself did you run into any know or unforeseen issues? Did you also have a sway controller installed? Have you since had any issues with your setup?
I am ultimately praying I didn't make a bad decision buying this BMW and that someone here can turn my newly installed frown upside down!
Thanks in advance for your time and assistance!
Comments
The 4-pin trailer setup does not have a constant 12VDC power source to it, only lights and brakes, which only work when the vehicle lights are working. Vehicle owner draw on its lighting circuits on new cars is very touchy, and many are computer controlled. This is why you can not just tap the taillight circuit for the 12VDC power connection, it has to be a “battery charging” circuit connection.
cheers
That said, after reviewing the e-Trailer web-site what you are asking/need is very doable and within DIY skill set. If you personally lack the skills suggest you purchase the parts then locate a utility trailer shop or even a friendly RV service department to install items on your BMW. Those guys do "adding towing stuff" all the time while standard auto shops don't.
From your overall description it sounds like you need to add following to your BMW X5.
+ trailer hitch receiver
+ A ZCI circuit protected control box for lights.
+ Add/Run a 10-AWG wire from battery to rear of BMW (with an in-line fuse)
+ Install a 4-pin to 7-pin convertor (because available ZCI boxes are 4-pin)
+ purchase a wireless trailer Brake Controller, several different brands will work.
Overall set-up would be something like:
TV: '17 Colorado V6 Z71 4x4, Tow Package, GM Brake Controller
Adventures: 51 Nights: 322 Towing Miles 41,200+
cheers
******response from earlier today********
As much as I didn't intend today to be a day in front of the computer searching for this it was my reality and I did come across the stealth hitches which includes a 7 pin that plugs directly into the X5 canBUS. It comes with a hefty price tag in itself at either $900 or $1400 depending on if you want the camera zoom functionality to back up to the ball hitch with ease.