Powered Tail Light Converter for a 2008 BMW X3 and Trailer with Separate Brake and Turn Lights

Question:

I have a 2008 BMW X3 e83 with all separate lighting circuits 5wire.I need to wire up for connection to trailers which also run separate 5wire lighting circuits. tail lamps,stop lamps,left turn,right turn and ground. No modulation, just all separate circuits.How is that you ask? Well this is Australia and some things we do differently,but I am coming to the US this week and as I am paranoid about protecting the tow vehicles multiplexing electronics I thought I could pick up a 119177 to isolate any destructive feedback.It seems this is the only unit that will give me the 5 circuit protection. Could I use this? What do you think?

asked by: Peter B

Expert Reply:

The # 119177KIT could be used on your 2008 BMW X3. However, in addition to the 5 wire converter, you will need another converter, # 118158. The reason is the 5 wire converter will combine the brake and turn signals. Since your trailer has separate turn and brake lights, the second converter is needed.

The running light circuit will bypass the second converter. Only the ground, right turn/brake and left turn/brake will going into the converter. What I would do is cut off the 5-Way connector on the first converter. Connect green, yellow, and white from the first converter (with plug cut off) to the matching colors on the second converter.

Then on the other side of the second converter you will reattach the 5-Way to match the configuration used on your trailer. The blue wire would not be used at all. It will not be connected on the vehicle nor would it need to go to the trailer. It is for the reverse light circuit normally and in this application would not be needed.

I have included a link to another question and answer that has a diagram that should help.

expert reply by: Michael H