Volvo XC90 Incompatible with a Weight Distribution System

Question:

Have the XC90 with OEM hitch. 5000/500 lbs. No rating for WDS. Air suspension. I am unclear from all the conflicting guidance if it is ok to use a WDS or not and how to set it up with the air suspension. Should I put it into service mode? I am towing roughly 90 of rating, single axle. Some people say definitely because the trailer is more than 50 GVWR. Others say check manual. But there is no mention I can find. Others say no because of the air suspension or the lack of WDS rating on the hitch/vehicle, or because unibody. How can I be sure?

asked by: Scott

Expert Reply:

Using a weight distribution hitch with your Volvo XC90 would be strongly discouraged. Weight distribution hitches redistribute some of the load from the rear axle of the tow vehicle to the front axle, that force has to be transferred either through the vehicle's frame (for a body on frame vehicle) or its unibody (for the XC90). Weight distribution hitches are used for hauling heavier trailers your Volvo is not considered a heavy duty hauler and has a maximum speed of 50 mph while towing.

An alternative would be to use sway control, the curt item # 17200 would attach to your trailer and then to a ball mount with a sway control tab. I recommend the Curt item # D320 this will fit 2" Hitches and has 3/4" Rise, 2" Drop and is rated up to 7,500 lbs. I have included a couple links about sway control.

expert reply by: Jerred H

Brian

4/29/2025

Hello, is this recommended solution for Volvo XC90 + Airstream Caravel 19cb?

Jerred H.

4/30/2025

@Brian It depends entirely on what kind of hitch you have on your Volvo XC90. If you have a standard or factory hitch then yes. The Curt Friction Sway Control item # 17200 will work with a standard 2" class III hitch. You'll just need the Curt Ball Mount w/ Sway Control Tab for 2" Hitches item # D320. Another option, and the only one if you have a Stealth Hitch, is the Tuson Trailer Sway Control System item # 335TSC-1000. It uses sensors to continuously monitor your trailer for any type of sway, detecting it as soon as it begins and activating your brakes to control it. What kind of hitch do you have and what year is your Volvo XC90?