Adding a Brake Controller to a 2010 BMW X3

Question

Question:

BMW says they do not make a brake module for a 2010 BMW x3. The trailer we want to tow weights with two miniature horses 2200 pounds so the BMW should be able to pull it. But California law says we have to have brakes on the trailer. Neither BMW nor the two trailer companies in our area seem to be able to deal with this issue. How can we proceed?

asked by: Gary C

0

Expert Reply:

Installing a brake controller on a 2010 BMW X3 can be tricky because they have sensitive wiring. What I recommend is to use the Prodigy RF # TK94FR. This controller mounts on the trailer and there is a handheld unit that rides in the vehicle with you. Installation of the controller only requires a functioning 7-Way connector.

To add a 7-Way you will start by adding a 4-Way (unless the vehicle already has one). For that I recommend the ZCI harness # 119250KIT because it does not require splicing into the vehicle wiring.

With it installed you would then need # 37185 and wiring kit # 5506. You would use all of the parts of the wiring kit. The 4-Way will plug into the 37185. The white wire will ground to the vehicle frame. The only other connection you will need is the black wire. It will connect to the positive battery terminal via a 40 amp circuit breaker included with the 5506 kit.

Once the 7-Way is installed as described above the RF brake controller will work. But if the trailer has LED lights then you will likely need to use adapter # C57003 to avoid getting bulb out error messages on the vehicle.

expert reply by: Michael H

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