Towing with BMW X3 of X5

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I've never heard of this system. The only way I could see that the X3 could proportionally control the trailer brakes is by using accelerometer sensors already int he vehicle for the stability control system to use. Could they have coded the ECU to detect the accelerometer readings and how would the control the varying electrical signal to the trailer brakes? Sounds sketchy. I would get proof before trying to tow the R-Pod. If it doesn't active your trailer brakes at all, you will really put some wear on the X3 brakes. Not safe.
What is the max tow rating for the X3? Max tongue weight limit?  I assume a V6 engine?

EDIT: Found 3000 pounds tow limit for the AWD version?

Thinking about it, if there is no trailer brake controller, what will control the trailer brake signal?? This sounds odd. I've seen 1650 lbs being the max trailer weight for un-braked trailers on many vehicles. Over 1650 lbs should have it's own braking system controller by a brake controller tied into the tow vehicle braking system.

Try www.bimmerfest.com forum to learn about your X3 capabilities, they will have more info than the R-Pod forum Good Luck.

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ToolmanJohn Members Profile Send Private Message Find Members Posts Add to Buddy List Senior Member Joined: 23 Apr 2014 Location: Connecticut Online Status: Offline Posts: 451	Topic: Towing with BMW X3 of X5 Posted: 22 May 2016 at 8:51am
	I've never heard of this system. The only way I could see that the X3 could proportionally control the trailer brakes is by using accelerometer sensors already int he vehicle for the stability control system to use. Could they have coded the ECU to detect the accelerometer readings and how would the control the varying electrical signal to the trailer brakes? Sounds sketchy. I would get proof before trying to tow the R-Pod. If it doesn't active your trailer brakes at all, you will really put some wear on the X3 brakes. Not safe. What is the max tow rating for the X3? Max tongue weight limit? I assume a V6 engine? EDIT: Found 3000 pounds tow limit for the AWD version? Thinking about it, if there is no trailer brake controller, what will control the trailer brake signal?? This sounds odd. I've seen 1650 lbs being the max trailer weight for un-braked trailers on many vehicles. Over 1650 lbs should have it's own braking system controller by a brake controller tied into the tow vehicle braking system. Try www.bimmerfest.com forum to learn about your X3 capabilities, they will have more info than the R-Pod forum Good Luck.
	2017 ATC 7X20 Custom Toy Hauler 2013 R-Pod 177 (SOLD) 2013 VW Touareg TDI

Jewel59 Members Profile Send Private Message Find Members Posts Add to Buddy List Groupie Joined: 19 May 2016 Online Status: Offline Posts: 70	Posted: 22 May 2016 at 8:22am
	i pick up my Rpod on Monday. I have a 2015 BMW X3. BMW installed the OEM transport system. It's a slick design and when the system is not in use its nearly invisible. Is anyone else towing with this system. I am told the seven pin as a controller is wired and will recognize the trailer brakes when the trailer is plugged in. The car was reprogrammed so when I brake the car I will brake the trailer. In addition the dynamic traction control will compensate for any sway of the trailer and the back up cam now has a handy feature that guides lining up the SUV to the trailer for hitching. So all this "sounds" terrific but I haven't been able to hook something up. When I read about traditional brake controllers they are in the car. BMW tells me this system is integrated and programmed into the car. Reprogramming the car the was two hour process. I have this horrible fear I will show up to get my Rpod and something will have gone wrong. Has anyone used this system? I did get all this information from the head BMW service manager. Is it really possible all this is "integrated" and I plug in the trailer an go? I'm hoping this is the case. BMWsare smart cars and the cost was $1600. Couldn't find anyone else to do the work who would touch it.