Volvo XC90 Owner's Manual page 167

Points to keep in mind when towing a
trailer
•
When towing trailers without brakes, the
maximum permissible trailer weight is
1,700 lbs (750 kg).
•
If necessary, redistribute the weight of
any cargo in the trailer to avoid excessive
weight on the trailer hitch.
•
The maximum trailer weight listed in the
table for All Wheel Drive models,
5,000 lbs (2250 kg) is only applicable
when there are not more than two occu-
pants in the vehicle, in the front seats,
with a combined weight of 300 lbs
(135 kg), with no other cargo in the vehi-
cle.
•
The maximum weight listed for Front
Wheel Drive models, 4,000 lbs (1800 kg)
is only applicable when there are not
more than four occupants in the vehicle,
in the front seats and second row of
seats, with a combined weight of 600 lbs
(270 kg), with no other cargo in the vehi-
cle.
•
Vehicles used for towing a trailer on a
regular basis, or for long-distance high-
way towing should be equipped with an
automatic transmission oil cooler and
Volvo's automatic self-leveling system for
the rear suspension. Consult your Volvo
retailer.
•
Volvo recommends the use of Volvo
trailer hitches that are specially designed
for the vehicle.
•
All Volvo models are equipped with
energy-absorbing shock-mounted bump-
ers. Trailer hitch installation should not
interfere with the proper operation of this
bumper system.
•
Increase tire pressure to recommended
full inflation pressure. See chapter
"Wheels and tires."
•
When your vehicle is new, avoid towing
heavy trailers during the first 620 miles
(1,000 km).
•
Engine and transmission are subject to
increased loads. Therefore, engine cool-
ant 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.
•
Hauling a trailer affects handling, durabil-
ity, 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).
06 Starting and driving
Towing a trailer
•
Do not connect the trailer's brake system
directly to the vehicle's brake system.
•
Remove the ball and drawbar assembly
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.
NOTE
•
When parking the vehicle with a trailer
on a hill, apply the parking brake
before putting the gear selector in P.
When starting on a hill, put the gear
selector in D before releasing the park-
ing brake. Always follow the trailer
manufacturer's recommendations for
wheel chocking.
•
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).
06
165