Mk 3 2008 Tow bar electrics? Dedicated or not?

[Boatie]

When I got my V70 I opted for a dealer fitted genuine bar and electrics even though I only ever tow a 250 kg (ish) capacity,unbraked luggage trailer. OK, expensive but my choice.

Fast forward to a couple of months ago when I was towing the trailer loaded with a 95 kg diesel generator along the A34 in the inside lane with the cruise control set at 55mph. Without warning a car passing me at about 70 mph blew a rear tyre. Before I knew it the passing car spun through 180 degrees and at one stage was a matter of inches (or so it seemed) in front of me. Obviously I stood on the brakes instinctively. The next few seconds was weird. The ABS was obviously working overtime and I'm convinced that it's knowing that a trailer was attached contributed to the car and trailer stopping in a straight line. I seemed able to feel the whole car correcting any tendency to veer. A van driver following said he expected to see my trailer jack knife. It didn't. In those few moments I realised that my decision to buy a genuine Volvo wiring kit was one of my better decisions.

PS The driver of the car was shaken but unhurt. Her car was obviously a write off

[karlywoo]

Many thanks to all who have taken the time to reply, so its a dedicated to be fitted!! ouch, i thought as much, i guess i will go with Witter as they have always fitted well in the past, once again many thanks Les

[kenny]

Here is a link to a removable Thule bar. They have changed their name back to brink now. Thule made the genuine bars for Volvo. Good price at £154 delivered. http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/VOLVO-Brin...IAAMXQO21RpOKR

[Clan]

Originally Posted by karlywoo

Many thanks to all who have taken the time to reply, so its a dedicated to be fitted!! ouch, i thought as much, i guess i will go with Witter as they have always fitted well in the past, once again many thanks Les

Don't forget the volvo tow bars have been through the volvo crash tests , You don't know what is going to happen with the "other" makes .