Wiring Harness for 2016 Volvo XC70 and Running a Wire to the Battery

Updated 10/18/2021 | Published 10/17/2021

Question:

why do i need a connection to the battery

asked by: Kellen W

Expert Reply:

On your 2016 Volvo XC70, the Curt T-Connector Vehicle Wiring Harness with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector item # C56386 has a wire that runs to the battery for two reasons. The first and main reason is that there is no other source of constant 12v power in the rear of your Volvo. The second is that the powered converter that comes with the wiring harness is designed to reduce strain on your wiring system. This requires it to have a direct power source. If you were to tap into another circuit you would be drawing extra power meant for another function which could/would overload that circuit eventually.

I recommend going with the Tekonsha T-One Vehicle Wiring Harness with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector item # 118774. It has a similar installation method and does still require running a wire to your battery but I have had far better experiences with Tekonsha and their wiring harnesses. I did attach a help article that details routing the power wire from the rear of a vehicle to the front for you to check out as well.

expert reply by: Jerred H