GLE Class (W166) Produced 2015-2019

Advice for adding tow hitch to GLE63 - possible?

Old Mar 26, 2021 | 06:56 PM
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GLC 63 AMG
Advice for adding tow hitch to GLE63 - possible?

I current have a 2016 GLE350 base. I saw a killer deal on a 2016 GLE63 AMG so I want to go look at it tomorrow however I do NEED to have the ability to tow my jetskis from time to time. The AMG does not have a tow hitch and I can't seem to find options online.

Does anyone have advice, or options or ideas for me? I'd hate to miss out on upgrading to a AMG over this but I need to have the jet skis in my life lol.
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Old Mar 26, 2021 | 10:05 PM
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You can order parts and install them or have them installed. This would likely include a module that would likely need coding. It's probably a very expensive project.

Some current model BMW X3 owners have done exactly this, and the project ends up being around $2k using DIY labor and coding. I would imagine a GLE would be no less expensive. The rear valence and rear bumper/hitch drawbar are the highest price items.
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Old Mar 27, 2021 | 12:54 PM
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be careful ordering parts meant for other GLEs especially if trying to compare to AMG 63 models as often the true AMG models have different suspension components and subframe parts that could make a MB factory hitch not fit or be practical...

FWIW if just planning to tow jet skis, it may be more practical to just see if Curt or UHaul has one
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Old Apr 8, 2021 | 10:04 PM
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Personally, I would think it's not that difficult. MY GLE43 had an OEM trailer hitch and a different rear bumper cover. Installing the hitch is not difficult and wiring not difficult, just time-consuming. The last hurdle is cutting clearance into the bumper cover. I had to do this on a 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee I owned and they are marked on the inside where to cut. I don't know about M-B's.

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Old Apr 8, 2021 | 10:28 PM
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On the latest BMW G01 X3, the rear bumper center trim panel is different when a factory hitch is installed. It's not a cutout of the non-hitch trim panel.
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