Volvo recommends the use of Volvo trailer hitches that are specially designed for the vehicle.

NOTE

See page 337 for the maximum trailer and tongue weights recommended by Volvo.

• Observe the legal requirements of the state/province in which the vehicles are
• All Volvo models are equipped with energy-absorbing shock-mounted bumpers. Trailer hitch installation should not interfere with the proper operation of this bumper system.

Trailer towing does not normally present any particular problems, but take into consideration:

• Increase tire pressure to recommended full pressure. See the tire inflation table on page 275.
• When your vehicle is new, avoid towing heavy trailers during the first 620 miles (1,000 km).
• Maximum speed when towing a trailer: 50 mph (80 km/h).
• Engine and transmission are subject to increased loads. Therefore, engine coolant temperature should be closely watched when driving in hot climates or hilly terrain. Use a lower gear and turn off the air conditioner if the temperature gauge needle enters the red range.
• If the automatic transmission begins to overheat, a message will be displayed in the text window.
• Avoid overload and other abusive operation.
• Hauling a trailer affects handling, durability, and economy.
• It is necessary to balance trailer brakes with the towing vehicle brakes to provide a safe stop (check and observe state/local regulations).
• Do not connect the trailer's brake system directly to the vehicle's brake system.
• More frequent vehicle maintenance is required.
• Remove the ball holder when the hitch is not being used.
• Volvo recommends the use of synthetic engine oil when towing a trailer over long distances or in mountainous areas.

WARNING

• Bumper-attached trailer hitches must not be used on Volvos, nor should safety chains be attached to the bumper.
• Trailer hitches attaching to the vehicle rear axle must not be used.
• Never connect a trailer's hydraulic brake system directly to the vehicle brake system, nor a trailer's lighting system directly to the vehicle lighting system. Consult your nearest authorized Volvo retailer for correct installation.
• When towing a trailer, the trailer's safety wire must be correctly fastened to the hole or hook provided in the trailer hitch on the vehicle. The safety wire should never be fastened to or wound around the drawbar ball.

NOTE

• When parking the vehicle with a trailer on a hill, apply the parking brake before putting the gear selector in P. Always follow the trailer manufacturer's recommendations for wheel chocking.
• When starting on a hill, put the gear selector in D before releasing the parking brake. See also page 125 for more detailed information about starting off on a hill while towing a trailer.
• If you use the manual (Geartronic) shift positions while towing a trailer, make sure the gear you select does not put too much strain on the engine (using too high a gear).
• The drawbar assembly/trailer hitch may be rated for trailers heavier than the vehicle is designed to tow. Please adhere to Volvo's recommended trailer weights.
• Avoid driving with a trailer on inclines of more than 15 %.

Trailer cable

An adapter is required if the vehicle's trailer hitch has a 13-pin connector and the trailer has 7 pins. Use an adapter cable approved by Volvo. Make sure the cable does not drag on the ground.