I saw an older (early 2016) thread re: towing hitches.

Does anyone have recent experience? Does the "Volvo hitch" still require the dealer to cut/damage the bumper? It seemed like there were a couple other hitch options (non-Volvo) that were working for people.

Any insights MUCH appreciated! Our family is planning a long driving trip, and life would be much easier if we can pull a trailer.

Thanks!

 

I picked up a tow hitch combo from Amazon. It had a minor modification of the rear bumper. a Half moon cut out, I seem to remember. I the electronic kit they sent, would have worked, abut it was a little more thinking than the one that was supposed to be sent. They sent a replacement immediately which after receiving it, it went in super easy. The Muffler was really close to the new receiver hitch. I ended up using a hammer to wack the tail pipe a little bit, to attempt to square out the tail pipe so that when sitting at idle, it doesn't vibrate loudly. I had to remove the tow inside part. its not configured to allow that part to be used in future. I think most tow people have other methods for towing.

 

I would highly recommend that Volvo tow package. Yes it is cut out of the bumper but there is an attractive cover for the hitch when you aren't using it. There are some terrible photos of hack jobs. Just make sure that your Volvo mechanic has done it before and promises a good clean cut.


There is a software update that the dealer needs to do once the hitch is in place. The update provides a different back-up camera option to help the hook-up.


I got the prodigy Tekonsha wireless brake controller and paired it using the 7 pin to 7 pin lamp-out sensor bypass to get the handheld unit to pair properly. That bypass is just needed for the pairing, not for day-to-day use.


2017 XC90