Which Concealed Trailer Hitch for 2018 BMW X5

Question:

Hello, I recently purchased a 2018 BMW X5 and would like to add a trailer hitch. I like your products as they are hidden. I have a couple of questions. There are 2 items listed in the subject line. Do they both get installed the same way fitted in existing holes, etc.? Are they both compatible with my car? I have a good \ experienced mechanic. Can my mechanic install it? FYI, Any additional info provided will be greatly appreciated. Thanks.

asked by: Alec

Expert Reply:

Both hitches fit certain models of the 2018 BMW X5.

The EcoHitch # EH44FR will fit 2018 BMW X5 models, with the exception of M performance models (will fit M sport model) that have a rear back up sensor. The EcoHitch # 306-X7265 fits 2018 X5 models without the backup sensors, except M performance models.

The Stealth Hitch # SH79VR hitch you'd looked at fits all models except the M performance. For the M performance, you'd use # SH56VR. Both hitch include the receiver that's meant to serve as an attachment for hitch mounted accessories such as a bike rack or a cargo carrier, but not for towing. For towing, you'd need # SH85VR for all models except the M performance or # SH52VR for the M performance. Both of these hitches include both the receiver for accessories, as well as the ball mount for towing. The trailer wiring harness/connector is also provided.

Both hitch brands are manufactured in the US, both hitches allow you to remove the receiver or ball mount when the hitch isn't in use, and both have a similar level of difficulty as far as the installation goes. The Stealth hitch allows the receiver or ball mount to be removed without tools, and the connection is lockable, while the receiver of the EcoHitch is secured using a bolt. The bolt setup does draw the connection tightly together so there isn't movement but it's not as slick as the Stealth Hitch connection, in my opinion.

Which hitch setup is best? The hitches from either manufacturer will ultimately serve the same purpose but I find the Stealth setup to be nicer because the receiver or ball mount can be locked to prevent theft. Is that feature worth the price differential? That will depend on your budget.

If you'll be towing with the hitch, and you go with the EcoHitch option, you'll also need a trailer wiring harness like # C56190KIT.

The installation is fairly complicated, it'll involve temporarily removing the rear bumper cover and bumper. If your mechanic is comfortable with that, they shouldn't have any problems.