Before towing a trailer, consider how this will affect your journey. Make a thorough assessment based on your car's capabilities.
Trailer mode is automatically enabled when you connect a trailer to the car.
- Keep in mind that the car performs differently with added weight at the rear. This affects both handling and power usage. Expect a notable reduction in range when towing a trailer.
- Only use trailers in good working condition that comply with local regulations.
- Make sure you have read the separate section covering loading recommendations.
Note
Maximum permitted trailer weights
The stated maximum permitted trailer weights are those permitted by Volvo. National vehicle regulations can further limit permissible trailer weights and speeds. Your towbar may be certified for a higher towing weight than the car can actually tow.
Towing preparations
Tip
Trailer lights test
When the trailer power cable has been connected to the car, you will be prompted in the centre display to run a trailer lights check. The system can help you with this check by turning on the different lights in sequence. In some cases the car can also detect broken trailer lights automatically, such as the brake lights and the indicator lights. In such cases, follow the directions given in the driver display.
Driving with a trailer
Important
While driving
- Maintain a low speed when driving with a trailer up long, steep ascents.
- Avoid driving with a trailer on inclines of more than 12%.
- The additional load increases the risk of overheating, which will be indicated in the driver display. Follow any instructions shown.
- Avoid parking on an incline if possible. The extra weight of the trailer can affect the parking brake's ability to securely hold the car. If you cannot avoid parking on an incline, be sure to block the wheels1 as a precaution.
Snaking
Snaking is a phenomenon that can occur when towing a trailer. It causes the car and trailer to resonate in a side-to-side motion, which can escalate quickly and cause loss of control. Snaking primarily occurs at high speeds, especially if the trailer load is too heavy or improperly distributed. The car continually monitors its movement and can intervene to help the driver regain control if it detects snaking.
- Sudden gusts and powerful side winds.
- Uneven road surfaces.
- Sweeping steering wheel movements from side to side.
Trailer stability assistance
The stability control system2 intervenes if it detects snaking when towing a trailer. The system precisely times individual braking actions for the front wheels to mitigate the snaking phenomenon. This is often enough to help the driver stabilise the car and trailer.
When the stability control system intervenes to suppress snaking, the electronic stability control symbol is shown in the driver display.
Suspension settings
When towing a trailer, the firm setting for suspension feel must be selected at each new driving cycle.
Interventions and warnings when reversing
The car can automatically brake to prevent a collision when reversing if it detects an obstacle or crossing traffic behind the car. Interventions and warnings when reversing are disabled when towing a trailer.
