Mostly Hidden Trailer Hitch and Easy to Install Brake Controller for 2019 BMW X3

Question:

Hello etrailer - Would appreciate an expert recommendation ON trailer hitch and brake controller options for a 2019 BMW X3. Will be towing a 16foot travel trailer 3500 lbs. Ive seen an option for a Curt Hitch and wireless brake controller along w/ an assembly piece 51180?. Like the idea and aesthetic of a stealth hitch but too many varying opinions on its structural integrity for pulling TTs. Also, what sort of low profile brake controller options are there if any. Appreciate any and all input. Thanks

asked by: IP P

Helpful Expert Reply:

For your 2019 BMW X3 we have the mostly hidden Draw Tite hitch part # 76226 as a confirmed fit that would work really well. It has plenty of towing capacity as it rated for towing up to a 5,000 lb trailer and since only the hitch opening hangs below the rear bumper it is mostly out of sight.

The Curt Echo Mobile brake controller part # C51180 is a really great option for a brake controller as well based on what you are looking for. All this controller needs to install is to plug into an active 7-way and once synced to a smart phone is ready to tow with. If you don't have any trailer wiring currently you'd want to start with a 4-way part # C59236 which I attached an install video on for a 2019 X3 just like yours.

To convert the 4-way to a 7-way so that you can install the brake controller only requires the 7-way adapter kit part # ETBC7L. The 4-way of this plugs into the 4-way of your vehicle and once you run the included wiring and breaker up to the vehicle's positive battery post it's active enough to allow the Echo to function. This saves you from having to hardwire in a brake controller which requires tapping into the brake signal of your vehicle and running a few other wires too.

expert reply by: Jameson C