TACTRAS, I can see why BMW charged so much for the towbar installation as it's very neat indeed. As you said, with the bar detached it's almost imposible to tell. Nice job.

 

It is bloody expensive, but it is well done. Rydale Newport had the car from the thursday morning through until the following monday afternoon. They said they had to update some software which normally takes 8hrs (according to them...). They definately updated the CIP, as when I got the car back the SATNAV had changed, giving me the persective view etc. But they also had some problems with some module/s when updating the software. They had a failure after the first 8hrs showing the the module for the rear PDC had a fault during reprogramming. They replaced this, and then everything updated ok.

They had no courtesy cars, so I had to spend the weekend driving the wife's Zafira......it was a very emotional weekend for me....

 

TACTRAS, any idea on where I can get the towbar attachment you so nicely pictured? I am in the USA and looking to put one on my 530XIT wagon. Also, is there a tow rating or is it not recommended for use on towing, just receiver adapter for bikes, etc. Thanks for you help.

 

Got mine from eBay, its made by Westfalia OE supplier ?95 delivered in the UK,

http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=300162929278
very easy to fit, slight cut to rear bumper, but OK.

I need to lower the electric socket, i have some pics of the install if required.

 

For the BMW model see the Westfalia website -- I guess they would be able to put you in touch with a local distributor. As TACTRAS mentioned, the car does need to be recoded by your dealer as part of the installation which, incidentally, means that you lose any remap (I lost my DMS map when I had mine installed). Although it's an expensive aftermarket item the BMW tow hitch is more or less invisble when you're not using it and seems like a quality bit of kit.

BC

 

It's also a GREAT beach umbrella anchor when it's not being used for towing.
Nope, I'm not kidding - it's just the right shape and nicely heavy.