[Cabman]

Has anyone installed a stealth hitch without removing the bumper fascia? Saw a video on etrailer.com showing that all that needs to be removed it the plastic center portion.

I did a search but all the information I have read on the posts involved removing the entire bumper fascia. I am just looking for some comments from anyone that has done this.

Thanks

[hrkahn]

Bumper definitely needs to be removed. The hitch gets mounted between the crash bar and the frame of the car. You cannot take the crash bar off with the bumper on.

[Cabman]

Originally Posted by hrkahn

Bumper definitely needs to be removed. The hitch gets mounted between the crash bar and the frame of the car. You cannot take the crash bar off with the bumper on.

Not according to etrailer.com. They are stating that the install is different than on the 2021. Link to their video.

https://www.etrailer.com/Trailer-Hit...eID=2022119819

[2022X3]

Since my X3 was built during those few weeks the factory hitch wasn't available, I get to install an aftermarket (Drawtite) also this spring! The lower valance was only changed slightly on the LCI so it has always been possible to do it this way but that video is the first I've seen w/o removing the entire bumper cover. There was also a thread where someone successfully did an install via the valance only, probably on a pre-LCI. My plan is to try it this way and not take the whole cover off unless I get stuck. Ironically I was able to source all the parts I need for about half the option cost anyway (if I consider my time and scraped knuckles are free)!

[Cabman]

Originally Posted by 2022X3

Since my X3 was built during those few weeks the factory hitch wasn't available, I get to install an aftermarket (Drawtite) also this spring! The lower valance was only changed slightly on the LCI so it has always been possible to do it this way but that video is the first I've seen w/o removing the entire bumper cover. There was also a thread where someone successfully did an install via the valance only, probably on a pre-LCI. My plan is to try it this way and not take the whole cover off unless I get stuck. Ironically I was able to source all the parts I need for about half the option cost anyway (if I consider my time and scraped knuckles are free)!

Please explain what parts would need to be sourced. The stealth hitch can be ordered from etrailer. Are you talking about sourcing the parts for a factory hitch?

[2022X3]

No I bought the Drawtite from amazon and the T-harness from e-trailer along with some misc parts I needed for under $300. Would have gladly paid BMW for the factory installed hitch receiver but my dealer said "not available anymore" and my car was built and now of course it's available again!

[Cabman]

Originally Posted by 2022X3

No I bought the Drawtite from amazon and the T-harness from e-trailer along with some misc parts I needed for under $300. Would have gladly paid BMW for the factory installed hitch receiver but my dealer said "not available anymore" and my car was built and now of course it's available again!

Same here. When I ordered the hitch was available. Then they deleted it from my build along with Sat radio, HUD and 19” wheels. I ended up buying an X3 M40i from the lot. From what I understand at some point the factory hitch kit will be available like it is for the 2021.

[O_que]

I installed a hitch on my m40i I did not remove my bumper. I have a thread here of a quick instal for it only the diffuser was removed

[kanecvl]

On a 2020 X3 M40i install was done by BMW dealer and I lost the kick to open the trunk feature after having it coded back into the car

[chavez]

I did the stealth hitch install on a 2022 X3 M40i. I followed the etrailer video and didn’t have to remove the whole bumper, just the fascia. It was actually pretty easy.

[BigJake]

Originally Posted by chavez

I did the stealth hitch install on a 2022 X3 M40i. I followed the etrailer video and didn’t have to remove the whole bumper, just the fascia. It was actually pretty easy.

Did you folks have to chisel out a bolt, like they mention in their video?