Get Storage, stowing and towing -> Towing a trailer Guide for Volvo EX40 SUV First Generation (2025-2026)

12.3. Storage under the bonnet

In addition to the boot, there is a storage space under the bonnet.

Examples of items that can be stored in the front cargo area include the car's warning triangle, tool kit, towing eye, charging

cable and puncture repair kit.

Important

Make sure the bonnet is shut properly after using the storage space.

12.4. Towing a trailer

The towbar allows you to tow a trailer with your car. Be sure to familiarise yourself with towing features and

any relevant safety issues.

Before towing a trailer, consider how this will affect your journey. Make a thorough assessment based on your car's capabilities.

Keep in mind that the car performs differently with added weight at the rear. This affects both handling and power usage.

Expect a notable reduction in range when towing a trailer.

Only use trailers in good working condition that comply with local regulations.

Make sure you have read the separate section covering loading recommendations.

Note

Maximum permitted trailer weights

The stated maximum permitted trailer weights are those permitted by Volvo. National vehicle regulations can further limit

permissible trailer weights and speeds. Your towbar may be certified for a higher towing weight than the car can actually

tow.

Towing preparations

1. Increase the tyre pressure to the recommended pressure for a full load. This applies regardless of the trailer weight.

2. Deploy the towbar and attach the trailer.

3. It's advisable to check that the trailer lights are in good working order.

Driving with a trailer

4. Read the recommendations for driving with a trailer thoroughly before you start driving.

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instances. For more information, refer to the first page for the complete disclaimer note.

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Important

While driving

Maintain a low speed when driving with a trailer up long, steep ascents.

Avoid driving with a trailer on inclines of more than 12%.

The additional load increases the risk of overheating, which will be indicated in the driver display. Follow any

instructions shown.

Avoid parking on an incline if possible. The extra weight of the trailer can affect the parking brake's ability to

securely hold the car. If you cannot avoid parking on an incline, be sure to block the wheels^[1]as a precaution.

Snaking

Snaking is a phenomenon that can occur when towing a trailer. It causes the car and trailer to resonate in a side-to-

side motion, which can escalate quickly and cause loss of control. Snaking primarily occurs at high speeds, especially

if the trailer load is too heavy or improperly distributed. The car continually monitors its movement and can intervene

to help the driver regain control if it detects snaking.

Factors that introduce sideways motion can trigger snaking. For example:

Sudden gusts and powerful side winds.

Uneven road surfaces.

Sweeping steering wheel movements from side to side.

Trailer stability assistance

The stability control system^[2]intervenes if it detects snaking when towing a trailer. The system precisely times indi-

vidual braking actions for the front wheels to mitigate the snaking phenomenon. This is often enough to help the

driver stabilise the car and trailer.

When the stability control system intervenes to suppress snaking, the electronic stability control symbol is shown in

the driver display.

Electronic stability control symbol

Interventions and warnings when reversing

The car can automatically brake to prevent a collision when reversing if it detects an obstacle or crossing traffic behind

the car. Interventions and warnings when reversing are disabled when towing a trailer.

Note

If you've had the towbar installed after purchasing your car, a system update may be needed for the towing features

to work. Contact a Volvo dealer to update the software.

[1]

If you do not have wheel chocks, you can use large stones or wooden blocks instead.

The content of this manual represents the status of the user manual at the time of printing and may not be completely valid in future

instances. For more information, refer to the first page for the complete disclaimer note.

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[2]

Electronic Stability Control (ESC)

12.5. Recommendations for loading

Proper loading is important for safety and your car's performance on the road.

Loading in general

Load weight and placement affects the car's centre of gravity, handling and performance.

Warning

Unsecured loads

A loose object weighing 20 kg (44 pounds) can, in a frontal collision at a speed of 50 km/h (30 mph), carry the impact

of an object weighing 1,000 kg (2,200 pounds). Always follow the loading recommendations to reduce the risk of ma-

terial damage or personal injury.

Place heavy cargo as low as possible.

Do not stow cargo where it may obstruct airbag deployment. If stacked cargo reaches above the upper edge of the

windows, be sure to have at least 10 cm (4 inches) of clear space between the window and the cargo. Otherwise, the

intended protection of the inflatable curtain, which is concealed behind the panels above the windows, may be

compromised.

Always comply with the car's specifications regarding weight and maximum permitted load.

When loading the boot, position the cargo firmly against the rear seats' backrests.

Large objects placed in the boot can obscure the driver's view through the rear windscreen.

Avoid placing cargo against the back of the front seats. It may compromise the effectiveness of the front seat whiplash

protection.

Cover any sharp edges, corners and protrusions.

Make sure that all cargo is secure for the duration of travel. You need to regularly check and re-tighten the straps as cargo

can move during transit.

Remove cargo you no longer need to have in the car. Reducing the car's overall weight improves both performance and

range.

Roof loading

Important

Any loads on the roof should not extend above the windscreen. This can interfere with car sensors.

Use a load holder recommended by Volvo when carrying loads on the car's roof. This reduces the risk of damage to the car and

helps ensure safety while travelling. Carefully follow the mounting instructions supplied with the load holders.

The content of this manual represents the status of the user manual at the time of printing and may not be completely valid in future

instances. For more information, refer to the first page for the complete disclaimer note.

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Storage, stowing and towing -> Towing a trailer for Your Volvo EX40 SUV First Generation (2025-2026)

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