[Multimodal]

I got a Stealth Hitch kit for my 2019 X5 recently and a local shop advised that the included wiring harness (photo below) is not the active wiring harness. What is the difference is between active and passive trailer wiring? Is it possible to get an active wiring harness from BMW or other suppliers? It seems like it would be important for this highly-complex vehicle to know it has a trailer on the back end...

[tenzor]

I was researching this topic when got car without factory hitch and hesitated with clip-on wiring.
There is a trailer control module and wiring harness available. It connects to empty connector behind right panel in trunk area.
I didn't have opportunity yet to purchase/install either. Waiting for summer.

I've found pollack connector and control unit part numbers here: https://parts.bmwnorthwest.com/a/BMW...n/71_1114.html

And there is retrofit manual for x3 however appears very similar to x5 regarding controller and wiring. https://x3.xbimmers.com/forums/attac...8;d=1571844555

In another topic somebody mentioned that there is a connector for break controller hidden below steering wheel, but I am not sure if it's there for non-hitch cars.

[James_G0540i]

The X5 G05 needs to be coded (programmed) to enable proper towing. Its not just a physical install of the hitch, wiring and control unit.

Once coded for towing, the car can be put into "Trailer mode", which disables some rear reversing safety features, adapts the cars dynamic stability/traction control features for towing, and also enables an enhanced Transmission cooling program.

Only a BMW dealer service department can do this, so you may as well get them to install the hitch and wiring too.

The electronics in this car are too advanced and highly integrated with the cars safety systems to muck-around with, best left to the professionals. Also, if you connect a 3rd party control unit to the car, you risk damaging the ECUs and voiding your warranty - so I wouldn't risk it.

[superkrups20056]

I can get this stealth hitch installed but the installer says he has no one to code the active wiring harness for weeks. Stealth hitch contracts the coding part of it out. I have the data cable. Could I screen share with any potential coders in this forum so that they are able to code it? I have a long move coming up in a few weeks and I can’t wait for Stealth’s coders to become available to do it.

[jad03060]

Turning coding on can be done with probably any of the people offering that service, but their module MIGHT need something else to complete the process.