Can you Route a 4-Way Trailer Connector Under the Vehicle on a 2009 Volvo XC70  

Question:

Expert Reply:

Many vehicles will have grommets somewhere in the rear cargo area that will allow you to route wires to the underside of the vehicle. The grommets are typically found behind the rear trim panels, in the spare tire well, or under the threshold.

When we installed the Curt Wiring Harness Kit, # C59496, on a 2011 Volvo XC70, we found a grommet just under the spare tire (see photo). The 2011 XC70 is the same generation as your 2009 XC70, so you should have this grommet as well. Sometimes the grommet is not large enough to fit the 4-pin connector through, but there are a few ways around that.

If you cannot find a grommet large enough to route the 4-pin connector through, you could cut some wires, run them through the grommet and splice them back together. Since it is not recommended to cut or alter the manufacturers wiring harness because it could void the warranty, I recommend using a 4-way to 4-way adapter like part # 18044 and cut the adapter.

First, connect one end of the adapter to the Curt wiring harness. Next, cut the adapter and route the wires through the grommet. Once you are under the vehicle, splice the 4 wires back together using but connectors like part # 05731-5 and you will have a functioning 4-way at your trailer hitch.

Keep in mind, this is only if the 4-pin connector from the original wiring harness will not fit through one of your grommets. Since you will have multiple connections with this setup, it is important that you ensure each connection is secure and safe from dirt or moisture.

expert reply by: John H

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