71 60 051 Removing and installing/replacing complete trailer tow hitch

WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 7 other vehicles, including the 2017 BMW X3, 2016 BMW X3, 2015 BMW X3, 2014 BMW X3, and 2013 BMW X3. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Necessary preliminary work:

Remove REAR BUMPER TRIM
Remove the center GUIDE FOR REAR BUMPER

IMPORTANT: Screws (1) must not be released!

Fig 1: Identifying Guide For Rear Bumper Screws

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Unlock plug connections (1) and disconnect.

Fig 2: Identifying Rear Bumper Trim Plug Connections

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Unscrew nuts (1).

Tightening torque 71 60 1AZ .

Remove trailer tow hitch (2) support member.

Installation note:

Replace nuts (1).

Fig 3: Identifying Trailer Tow Hitch Support Member And Nuts

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Replacement:

With the fully automatic trailer tow hitch up to 07/2013 the CONTROL UNIT MUST BE REPLACED .

Perform an initialization in the procedure or manual initialization via the button in the luggage compartment (see Operating Instructions). The manual initialization is described in the procedure.