Driving With A Trailer - Volvo XC 90 Owner's Manual

Driving with a trailer

When towing a trailer, always observe the legal
requirements of the state/province.
•
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 par-
ticular problems, but take into consideration:
•
Increase tire pressure to recommended full
pressure.
•
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 over-
heat, 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 regula-
tions).
•
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.
NOTE
•
When parking the vehicle with a trailer on
a hill, apply the parking brake before put-
ting the gear selector in P. Always follow
the trailer manufacturer's recommenda-
tions for wheel chocking.
•
When starting on a hill, put the gear
selector in D before releasing the parking
brake.
•
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 vehi-
cle is designed to tow. Please adhere to
Volvo's recommended trailer weights.
•
Avoid driving with a trailer on inclines of
more than 15%.
STARTING AND DRIVING
CAUTION
The maximum trailer weights listed are only
applicable for altitudes up to 3,280 ft
(1000 m) above sea level. With increasing
altitude the engine power and therefore the
car's climbing ability are impaired because of
the reduced air density, so the maximum
trailer weight has to be reduced accordingly.
The weight of the vehicle and trailer must be
reduced by 10% for every further 3,280 ft
(1,000 m) (or part thereof). When towing
5,000 lbs (2,250 kg) hill inclination is restric-
ted to 14%.
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