Mounting 7-way Trailer Connector to 2016 Volvo XC90

Updated 07/24/2020 | Published 07/22/2020

Products Featured in This Question

Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class III - 2"

(36)

$251.09

T-One Vehicle Wiring Harness with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector

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$55.95

No-Drill Mount Bracket, Long

(681)

$19.75

Curt Echo Wireless Brake Controller - 7-Way Plug-in w/ Bluetooth App - Up to 2 Axles - Proportional

(1769)

$279.95

7-Way RV Upgrade Kit for Trailer Brake Controller Installation - 12 Gauge Wires

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$96.74

Mounting Bracket and Installation Hardware - Pollak 7-Pole, RV-Style Trailer Connector - Vehicle End

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$7.79

Question:

I have a 2016 Volvo xc90. When I was researching this curt C53HR hitch, I saw a couple of pictures with a 7-pin connector installed along with this hitch. What mounts are used to install the 7-pin connector? Also, does the bumper need to be cut, since the bumper is cut when installing the curt hitch? Please see the attached picture:

asked by: Kevin B

Expert Reply:

You won't need to cut the bumper fascia to install a 7-way. We used a # 18136 no-drill bracket that attaches to the hitch crossbar using a pipe clamp. Since the Curt # C53HR hitch crossbar is concealed behind the bumper, the # 18136 bracket can be installed to the underside of the hitch crossbar with the L-bracket for the 7-way extending upward at a 90° angle. If the 7-way you'll be using didn't include an L-bracket, you can use # PK12711U.

If you're needing a brake controller, I'd recommend the wireless Curt Echo, part # C51180. The controller plugs into the 7-way and could communicate wirelessly with your smartphone which is used as the display and control unit for the controller. You'll also need the # ETBC7L install kit which includes the 7-way and the L-bracket. You'll also need a functional 4-pin trailer connector to access the vehicle's lighting function. I'd recommend using part # 118683.