XC90 Towbar swap from 2005 model to new

[idheath]

Hi,

I currently have an XC90 on a 55 plate (Nov.2005) which has a Volvo towbar fitted (removable swan neck type).

I'm seriously considering a new XC90 (MY2011) and want to know whether I can transfer my towbar across to the new vehicle.

Clearly the XC90 has had some changes since my 2005 model, including cosmetic changes to the rear bumper.

I want to know whether this is going to be feasible or not (since I don't want to fork-out the £650+ for a replacement).

Also I'm assuming even if I can swap the actual towbar that I'll need to purchase the electrics again?

Cheers Ian

[JOHN 850]

Check with your main stealer who should be able to tell you. I have a s/h geniune Volvo one currently for sale with Volvo plug in electrics if you can't be bothered removing yours !
Cheers,

John.

[pdrvolvo]

i suppose it could be possible.although there have been numerous cosmetic changes you would think the chassis was still the original design.its also a possability the wireing loom is still the same so you might be able to transfer the electrics.a few careful measurments here and there should give you a good incite as to the possability.if i was part exing i would be tempted to remove the old bar anyway and sell it seperately.that way you also learn how the bar is fitted.


peter.

[idheath]

I just checked with my delaer and apparently I'd be OK upto the 2010 model, but unfortunately for me the MY2011 XC90 has a different one :-(

[XCF]

The Electrics from a 2005 should work fine on a 2010 and you can remove with ease and then reuse.

I don't know for sure - but having looked at the new MY2011 brochure I doubt there is any change in body / bumper or electrics from 2010 to 2011 ...and given what little dealers seem to know I'd be very surprised of a dealer knowing this level of detail already.

There is a post on the XC90 forum of a Westfalia install that may help ....

[idheath]

I agree that it seems unlikely that the XC90 which has not had any changes which effect the towbar from its birth (many years ago) to 2010 would suddenly have such a change for the 2011 model (which I assume is during the twilight years for this car version).

Having said that the parts guy at the dealership seemed to know what he was talking about.

I think I'll ring a couple of other dealerships to see what they say:-)

It's an important consideration for me because I'd really like to get a new MY2011 model but if it's going to save me £650+ I may consider a secondhand late MY2010 one instead so I can transfer my existing towbar.

[XCF]

Originally Posted by idheath

I agree that it seems unlikely that the XC90 which has not had any changes which effect the towbar from its birth (many years ago) to 2010 would suddenly have such a change for the 2011 model (which I assume is during the twilight years for this car version).

The original car wiring changed in 2004 ...I think earlier cars are not canbus enabled, but anything post 2004 hasn't changed all the way through to MY2010 for sure .....and like you say given the XC90 lifespan has been stretched and nothing else major is in the MY2011 PDF I would bet money that the electrics / body where the towbar mounts have not been changed.

That said - I would sell the towbar - they fetch silly money on ebay and instead buy a Westafalia detachable towbar as you have no visible bumper cut on MY 2010 cars compared to Volvo original towbar.