Brake Controller Recommendation for 2011 BMW X5 with Factory 7-Way

Question:

I have a 2011 BMW X5. Im getting at a hitch installed at the BMW dealer, they said it will have a 7pin connector. Is there are a brake controller and wiring harness that would work for my setup?

asked by: Jon V

Expert Reply:

There is a way to install a brake controller to your 2011 BMW X5 that will have a factory 7-way but there isn't a port under the dash for a plug and play solution. Easiest solution is the wireless Curt Echo Mobile part # C51180 which basically would just plug into the 7-way and once synced to your phone is ready to tow.

Or for a more standard controller the Brake EVN # TK63VR can install too pretty easily but you'll have to do some wiring.

Next, for a wiring kit to install the brake controller to the 7-way you would want the Wiring Kit for 2 and 4 Brake Electric Brake Controllers # 5506. This will provide the power source and ground for the wiring for the brake controller. You will need to test the wires from the brake pedal switch of your vehicle to find a circuit that has voltage when the brakes are applied and none when not applied. This will be the circuit you will run the red wire to.

Finally you will need to run a length of 10 gauge wire (part # 10-1-1) from the brake output circuit of the controller to the brake output circuit of the 7-way (blue wire). The # 10-1-1 is sold by the foot so you will need to order a quantity of the amount of feet you will need.