Towing with geartronic

[4wheeldriver]

Hi all

After a lengthy converstion with a Volvo Concerns Manager (Engineer) over certain issues I had with the geartronic gearbox not providing engine braking when towing I had a response from the factory through the above.

BAsically the gearbox is not designed to provide engine braking for any extended length of time or it will go into what is known as lock up where the rev counter will fall to neutral and the engine braking will be SERIOUSLY reduced. As I tow round Scotland a lot with a large twin xle caravan on the back I find the thought of coming down the Berrydale on the road to wick with no engine braking available to be a major worry having driven it in a lorry and seen the smoke pouring off the trailer brakes there.

This is classed as a feature by VCUK but one that I find unacceptable. Lets face it, how many of you shove your car to neutral and coast down hills??

Dont you fail your driving test for coasting??

It wasnt elaborated on when this modification was introduced to the gearbox and the automatic downshift removed but mine was an MY08 so if you're contemplating a geartronic 'box in your next towcar you may want to look at this feature carefully.

Hope somebody finds this of use.

regards

4WD