When you click on links to various merchants on this site and make a purchase, this can result in this site earning a commission. Affiliate programs and affiliations include, but are not limited to, the eBay Partner Network.
Hello everyone, newbie here to the German auto industry. I am looking to install an OEM Tow package to a 2013 q7 3.0 TDI. Vin# WA1LMAFE6DD004248
My understanding is I need the wire harness, control module, 7 pin plug(easy), and trailer hitch(easy). I have a Thinkscan 689bt that should be capable of programming and activating the module. I just am not for sure of the exact part numbers needed. I will be installing a trailer brake control up front. Is it true that wiring should already be there?
So far this is the module and wire harness I've found https://www.ebay.com/itm/306035833200?mkcid=16&mkevt=1&mkrid=711-127632-2357-0&ssspo=JGZw2YG2Q4u&sssrc=4429486&ssuid=vln-F6KOTs-&var=&widget_ver=artemis&media=COPY
I tell ya what...I've done both the assemble my own tow kit on one Q7, and also bought the factory Audi 'tow kit in-a-box' accessory online for a '15 Q7. IMHO, you definitely want to buy the 'eerything's included' brand-new, tow kit, as it literally includes everything you need...including the H/D, solid shank tow-ball mount and tow ball rated to max capacity.
In fact the only thing it doesn't provide you with is the upgraded cooling fan the factory-tow equipped cars got on them.
Well, one other item you'll likely need is the Curt LED lighting adapter, and a locking hitch pin is always a good idea too.
Search for info/threads on the brake-booster add-on installation to get some insight as to what others have used and how they mounted theirs, as well as what is required to install one. Yes, there is a factory harness in all Q7s running from left front to right rear in cargo area specific to supporting a brake booster, and the factory trailer wiring harness incorporates a plugin for said brake booster at rear of the car, etc.
This is a much discussed topic with dedicated threads...easy to find if you search online.
NOTE: Do want to add I bought the 'tow-kit option', but I bought it from an online outlet store and got it for a good price delivered to my door. You do have to add the control module for the trailer lighting to the car and also reprogram multiple other control modules when adding the towing kit to the Q7, as there are a number of safety features and functions that change function or are deactivated when towing.
Last edited by '10Q7TDI_Prestige'; Jan 31, 2025 at 06:47 PM.
What I did was go to a wrecker. Bought everything including module and wiring for 500 Canadian all in. Took me all of 90 minutes to install it and I am not a mechanic although I can fix some stuff. I looked at having Uhaul install it but they told me minimum 4 hours labour which is why I did it myself. When you do the work, GET NEW BOLTS from VW that are for trailer hitches They are cheaper at VW than Audi. The non hitch bolts are a bit short and if you use them. It is asking for a disaster as only a few threads will screw in. See pics below and you'll see the flat steel non tow bumper VS tow bumper steel.
Mines pre done but for the brake controller I went with the curt wireless, it plugs in then your trailer plugs into it and you use an app to set the variables! I’ve done brake controllers in my trucks and thought I’d try this and not have to find a place to mount the controller
Mines pre done but for the brake controller I went with the curt wireless, it plugs in then your trailer plugs into it and you use an app to set the variables! I’ve done brake controllers in my trucks and thought I’d try this and not have to find a place to mount the controller
The downside to the 'wireless' versions that link directly to your smartphone is just that...it only works via your smartphone, which is less than ideal for an emergency situation. On the upside, you can easily xfer the wireless type interface between diff tow vehicles if need be. If you only got one tow vehicle, and you gonna be towing heavy, then I'd suggest a hardwired brake controller. And yeah, you definitely want to mount a trailer brake controller where it can be easily reached in an emergency situation, and with the Redarc and myriad others out there, this is easier than ever to do a custom mounting, as many owners on here have demonstrated.
Been trying to find the VCDS Coding Instructions for the Q7, does someone have the link to a thread where they did it? I've found all the parts and will be getting new bolts for it, do y'all happen to know the bolt size and length needed? Thank you!
Been trying to find the VCDS Coding Instructions for the Q7, does someone have the link to a thread where they did it? I've found all the parts and will be getting new bolts for it, do y'all happen to know the bolt size and length needed? Thank you!
Thank you for the bolt link! Also how did I not find the coding thread?! I searched here and the TDI forum. Sometimes you just have to ask for help I guess.
Thank you for the bolt link! Also how did I not find the coding thread?! I searched here and the TDI forum. Sometimes you just have to ask for help I guess.
Ross-Tech has the trailer hitch coding; when I'm looking for stuff I just use the internet search bar to cast a wide net based on my search terms. I've had meh results using the search threads option on this website, so do what works best for you.
Oh, and tip...those are stretch bolts (aluminum) and can only be used once...they have very specific torque instructions, as do many other 'stretch bolts' used on this car, where there's a base torque value, then it says plus an additional 90 degrees or whatever it is for that specific bolt you are tightening, so pay close attention to the torque specs as those are the giveaway you are working with 'stretch bolts' designed for single use only.
Last edited by '10Q7TDI_Prestige'; Feb 6, 2025 at 06:36 PM.
New Audi A6 Allroad Is The Market's Coolest Wagon: 9 Things to Know
Slideshow: Audi's latest A6 Allroad gets RS-style fenders, real off-road hardware, and enough personality to stand out in a market obsessed with crossovers.
Audi Recreates Crazy-Looking Speed Record Breaker From 1935
Slideshow: Audi has recreated one of the wildest machines of the pre-war speed-record era, reviving a streamlined V16 racer that originally exceeded 200 mph in 1935.
2013 OEM Tow Package DIY Q7
