Hitch and Wiring for a 2016 BMW 328i

Question:

Ive got a 2016 328i xDrive Sedan, and am looking to install a hitch. I see the Curt #C11367. The installation seems pretty doable, and it is a better price point than the Stealth setups. So Id prefer to get the Curt if possible. Id like to minimize any permanent changes to the car during installation. I see that the installation instructions for the Curt #C11367 hitch allow for the complete removal of the rear heat shield, eliminating the need for any permanent modifications. This is also confirmed in this QandA answer from you guys. My question is if I can safely leave the heat shield removed with the Curt hitch? Also, it looks like my BMW can use the Tekonsha T-One wiring kit. Im interested in this kit since it wires directly to the circuitry instead of using the ZCI system, and is obviously more cost effective. I have a question about the installation of the T-One system. In the installation instructions and video for the ZCI system, your technician connects the power wire to the BMW 3-seriesfoot rear battery located behind the rear taillight. I see that in the instruction manual for the T-One system, it indicates that the power wire must be run to the front of the vehicle and attached to the front battery. Is it possible to connect the T-One system to the rear battery located behind the passenger taillight instead, just like in the ZCI system installation video? Additionally, would you also let me know if the T-One system is a suitable replacement for the ZCI system? Which would you recommend in the case of my vehicle? Thanks!

asked by: Nedim F

Expert Reply:

I contacted Horizon Global and they advised me that removing the heat shield on your 2016 BMW 328i is acceptable, so you can safely go with the Curt # C11367.

I also recommend the Curt Powered Tail Light Converter with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector # C59236. The wiring harness has a converter box that will protect back feed from the trailer to your vehicles factory wiring if there is a short by blocking the connection between the two. I always recommend following the instruction however, in this case the power wire can be connected the battery in the back. The power wire also runs through the converter box and is fused.

expert reply by: Shane H