I need towbar buying advice - Mk III V70
 

Before I commit to buying a towbar and electrics for my recently purchased Mk III V70 I'd appreciate the combined wisdom of those who've been there - done that.

I'm also on the look out for a caravan and erring towards twin axles at the moment for size and (at the risk of triggering a debate) stability.

Mines a D5 geartronic and, from what I can tell, the best of the V70's for towing allowing for 2000kg and 90Kg nose weight (on both the V5 and owners manual)! Don't worry, I aim to be within that with a absolute maximum 90% ratio.

Driving licence restrictions are not a problem for me.

So, what towbar should I get? I don't want to spend too much and was inclined to go for a fixed one like a Witter. Apart from aesthetics is there any advantage to the retractable type? Is the Volvo bar superior enough to justify the price? Is it better to go second hand Volvo / retractable rather than a cheap new fixed?

What electrics? I'm assuming everything will be 13 pin nowadays. Should I get an aftermarket kit with relay etc that fulfils all the legal requirements but doesn't interface with the manufacturer set up or a Volvo kit with the module etc. Which is easier to fit? Can someone with DiCE/Vida complete the software update if I go down the Volvo route? I do like the idea of it being integrated but is it just over-complicating things?

On the subject of fitting I'm inclined to do it myself. Not just because of cost but also the confidence that it's been done properly. I guess the holes are already there anyway and it just needs attaching?

I might leave the electrics to someone else unless you can tell me it's not that hard?

How have I managed to turn a simple question into such a long post (don't answer that).

I went for the Volvo plug & play wiring from Volvo about £60.00 as you have sockets ready in boot. All worked apart from fog lights staying on rear of car, if you want Volvo can software update so fogs will turn off when 13 pins socket plugged in
Went Witter Towbar about £58.00 from PFJones

Car S60 D5 2007 Auto

Exactly the way that I have gone on my last 3 Volvos.

Always use the dedicated 13 pin Volvo electrics. Easy to fit and trouble free. As has been mentioned, no need for software update.:thumbs_up:

If you are using the genuine harness and module it will depend on age of car whether you can get away without any software installation. On my 2106 car nothing worked, not even sidelights, until software was installed. You do however then get advantage of trailer stability control, automatic switchoff of reversing sensors and foglights.
Mine was done in Belgium but installation of the trailer software at the same time as RTTI software for the satnav cost 76euro all in.

Thule towing sold out to Brink and They made the genuine Volvo bar that was fitted to my old 2007 mrk 3 V70. There is little difference in the quality of the big Towbar names but I would avoid the cheaper makes. To not be tempted to fit aftermarket electrics. Only go for genuine Volvo. It might be a bit more but it is a one off purchase and with a software update your car will do all sorts of things differently when towing. The gears will change at different times, the brakes will kick in to avoid a snaking trailer, the throttle peramiters will change. The proper kit does a lot more than just make the lights work.

Carparts4less do Bosal towbars at a good price and have regular sales. Infact they have one every weekend and at the end of each month.

Cheers guys, much appreciated. Will go for the Volvo electrics and a decent aftermarket towbar.

Has anyone used the Volvo electrics on a 2008 D5 P3 geartronic. If so, how plug and play was it? Can it be simply updated with DiCE/Vida or is it best to take to a dealer or good specialist?

Anyone know the part number for the electrics?

Thanks again.

Part numbers and installation details can be found here but I recommend you contact your volvo dealer with your VIN number to be certain:
http://accessories.volvocars.com/en-...CC-480821/2008

Try FRF volvo in Swansea for good prices and quick delivery. Read the following post for details:
https://www.volvoforums.org.uk/showp...&postcount=368

I believe software can only be bought through volvo or volvo approved garages via ' VIDA online' not via the standalone one

Make sure the reinforcing bar is re-fitted after the tow bar is on. The instructions aren’t very clear, just showing a diagram and an arrow.
http://accessories.volvocars.com/en-...-465603-1/2016

Thanks for all the great advice. I am now looking for a towbar and electrics. I have a quote from FRF for new electrics but does anyone know if there's a decent 'preloved' bar and electrics?

Be careful with second hand towing modules - many stories on here of them not being reprogrammable to a new vehicle.