Volvo 1990 240 Model
Button on gear selector knob and indicator light
symbol.
Disengaging 4th gear
The transmission will engage 4th gear automatically after upshifting thr\
ough first, second and third gears
unless the disengagement button on the side of the gear knob is pushed. \
When the button is pushed to disengage 4th gear, the transmission operat\
es as a 3-speed unit. If the
button is pushed while 4th gear is engaged, then a downshift to 3rd gear\
will occur. The transmission,
then, cannot upshift to 4th gear until the button is pushed again. As a \
reminder, when 4th gear is
disengaged, the indicator light (
) in the instrument panel is illuminated.
Be aware that, if 4th gear is disengaged (reminder light illuminated) \
when the engine is switched off, the
transmission will revert automatically to 4-speed operation (reminder l\
ight not illuminated) when the
engine is restarted.
Disengage 4th gear (reminder light illuminated) when:
* towing a trailer
* driving on hilly roads where precise speed control is desired.
Kick-down
Automatic down-shift to a lower gear is achieved by depressing the throt\
tle pedal fully and briskly.
An up-shift will be achieved when approaching the top speed for a partic\
ular gear or by releasing the
throttle pedal slightly.
Kick-down can be used for maximum acceleration or when passing at highwa\
y speeds.
Starting and stopping a car equipped with automatic transmission
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Volvo 1990 240 Model
pg. 50 Trailer hauling
When preparing for trailer hauling, observe the following:
l Use a trailer hitch which meets Federal Safety Standards for rear end co\
llisions (FMVSS 301 -75).
For trailer weights exceeding 2,000 lbs (908 kgs) use only a trailer h\
itch offered as a Genuine Volvo
Accessory.
l Maximum trailer weight recommended by Volvo is 3,300 lbs (1,500 kg). \
However, for cars with automatic transmission, an optional Volvo automat\
ic transmission oil cooler
must be installed when trailer weight exceeds 2,000 lbs (908 kgs). Wit\
h manual transmission, 5th gear
should not be used while towing. Observe legal requirements of the state\
in which the vehicles are
registered.
All Volvo models are equipped with energy absorbing shock mounted bumper\
s. Trailer hitch installation
should not interfere with the proper operation of the bumper system.
WARNING! Bumper-attached trailer hitches must not be used on Volvo's, no\
r should safety chains be
attached to the bumper.
Trailer hitches attaching to the vehicle rear axle must not be used.
WARNING! Never connect a trailer's hydraulic-brake system directly to th\
e vehicle brake system, nor
a trailer's lighting system directly to the vehicle lighting system. Con\
sult your nearest authorized
Volvo dealer for correct installation.
Trailer hauling does not normally present any particular problems, but t\
ake into consideration:
l Recommended hitch tongue load is 110 lbs (50 kgs) for trailer weights \
below 2,650 lbs (1,200 kgs)
and 143-154 lbs (65-70 kgs) for trailer weights above 2,650 lbs (1,20\
0 kgs). However, it must not
exceed 200 lbs (90 kgs).
l For trailer weights between 2,650-3,300 lbs (1,200-1,500 kgs) a top sp\
eed of 50 mph (80 km/h)
should never be exceeded.
l Engine and transmission are subject to increased loads. Therefore, engin\
e coolant temperature should
be closely watched when driving in hot climate or hilly terrain. Use low\
er gear and turn off air
conditioner if temperature gauge pointer enters the red range.
l Avoid overload and other abusive operation.
l Hauling a trailer affects handling, durability and economy.
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Volvo 1990 240 Model
l It is necessary to balance trailer brakes with the towing vehicle brakes\
to provide a safe stop (check
and observe State regulations).
l More frequent vehicle maintenance is required.
l Remove the ball and drawbar assembly when the hitch is not being used.
l Increase tire pressure to recommended full-load pressure. See section 'W\
heels and Tires."
Note: Refer to section entitled "Automatic transmission" for additional \
trailer hauling
tips.
Warning: Do not drive with trunk lid or tailgate
open!
Poisonous exhaust gases may enter via the open trunk lid or tailgate. (\
This is especially true for wagon
models.)
If the trunk lid or tailgate for any reason must be open, proceed as fol\
lows:
l Close the windows.
l Set the heating system controls for floor and defroster to max. and the \
blower to full speed (4). See
section titled "Heating and Ventilation".
Handling, roadholding
Vehicle load, tire design and inflation pressure are important for prope\
r handling. Therefore check that
the tires are inflated to the recommended pressure according to the vehi\
cle load.
Loads should be distributed so that capacity weight or maximum permissib\
le axle loads are not
exceeded.
It is recommended to use tires of the same make and dimensions on all fo\
ur wheels.
Warning: Do not mix radial ply and bias ply tires as this will adversely\
alter the vehicle handling
characteristics.
Roof rack
Permanent and removable roof racks are available from Volvo Accessories.\
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Volvo 1990 240 Model
l Observe the following points when in use.
l Avoid point loads. Distribute the load evenly.
l Place the heavy cargo at bottom of load.
l Observe that center of gravity and handling are influenced by the load w\
eight.
l Increasing load size increases wind resistance.
l Anchor the cargo correctly with a cord.
l Drive carefully. Avoid rapid starts, heavy cornering and heavy braking. \
l Max. roof load is 220 lbs (100 kg); use a root rack with a sufficient \
load rating.
pg. 51 Automatic transmission, Brake system
The following "Special Tips" apply to cars with automatic transmission
l For steep hills and when driving for prolonged periods at low speeds, po\
sition 1 should be selected.
Avoid, however, repeated changes since this can cause overheating of the\
transmission oil. For driving
on mountain roads with long persistent uphill gradients, select position\
2.
l When negotiating long, steep, downhill slopes, position 1 should be sele\
cted and position 2 for less
severe inclines, in order to obtain the best possible engine braking eff\
ect.
Do not hold the car stationary on an incline by using the accelerator pe\
dal. Instead, engage the hand
brake. This prevents the transmission oil from becoming overheated.
l 4th gear must be disengaged when hauling a trailer!
l If an additional transmission oil cooler is installed you can haul a tra\
iler with the overdrive engaged.
See next "special tip".
l When driving with heavy trailers, it is recommended that an additional o\
il cooler be installed. This
applies especially when driving under severe conditions e.g. mountain dr\
iving or prolonged driving at
high speeds without breaks. The additional oil cooler is available as a \
genuine Volvo accessory.
Regarding oil change, see section titled "Transmission oil".
Moisture on brake discs and brake pads affects braking.
Driving in rain and slush or passing through a normal car wash can cause\
water to collect on the brake
discs and pads. This will cause a delay in braking effect when the pedal\
is depressed. To avoid such a
delay, when the brakes are needed, depress the pedal occasionally when d\
riving in rain or slush.
This will remove the water from the brakes.
This should also be done after washing or starting in very damp weather.\
If the brake power assist does not function --
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Volvo 1990 240 Model
pg. 54 240 DL Wagon
pg. 55 Maintenance service
MAINTENANCE
Maintenance services
Your Volvo has passed two major inspections before it was delivered to y\
ou, according to Volvo specifications. When driven 600 - 1,200 miles (1,000
2,000 km), your car should be brought to the Volvo dealer for a mainten\
ance service. Engine, manual transmission and rear axle oils, will be changed
at this time.
Following this inspection, maintenance Inspections as outlined In this b\
ook should be performed every 5,000 miles (8,000 km).
Engine oil and oil filter changes should be performed every 5,000 miles \
(8,000) km, or at the time intervals outlined on page 62.
The extended maintenance inspection intervals make it even more advisabl\
e to follow this program.
Inspection and service should also be performed any time a malfunction i\
s observed or suspected.
It is recommended that receipts for vehicle emission services be retaine\
d in the event questions arise concerning maintenance. See your "Warranty
Information and Maintenance Records Booklets".
Maintenance Inspection Intervals
Volvo advises you to follow the inspection program at 5,000 mile or 8,00\
0 km intervals which is outlined in the "Warranties and Maintenance Records
Manual: This maintenance program contains inspections and services neces\
sary for the proper functioning of your car over the next inspection interval.
The maintenance inspections contain several checks which require special\
instruments and tools and therefore must be performed by a qualified
technician.
To keep your Volvo in top condition, specify time tested and proven Genu\
ine Volvo Parts and Accessories.
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Volvo 1990 240 Model
THE FEDERAL CLEAN AIR ACT (USA)
The Clean Air Act requires vehicle manufacturers to furnish written inst\
ructions to the ultimate purchaser to assure the proper functioning of those
components that control emissions.
The maintenance instructions listed in the "Servicing" section of this M\
anual represent the minimum maintenance required. These services are not
covered by the warranty. You will be required to pay for labor and mater\
ial used. Refer to your "Warranties and Maintenance Records Manual" for
further details.
In accordance with Federal Regulations, your Volvo is warranted to meet \
certain Emission Performance Standards. Refer to your Warranty Information
Manual for detailed information concerning:
l Emissions Performance Warranty (USA)
l Limited 5-Year/50,000-Mile Emission System Warranty (USA)
l 5-Year/80,000-Kilometer Emission System Warranty (Canada)
pg. 56 Servicing
MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE
A = Adjust (Correct if necessary)
R = Replace
I = Inspect (Correct or Replace if necessary)
L = Lubricate
Maintenance
operation Miles
(km) 600-
1,200
(1,000-
2,000)
5,000
(8,000)
10,000
(16,000) 15,000
(24,000) 20,000
(32,000) 25,000
(40,000) 30,000
(48,000) 35,000
(56,000) 40,000
(64,000) 45,000
(72,000) 50,000
(80,000) 55,000
(88,000) 60,000
(96,000)
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Volvo 1990 240 Model
Spark plugs R R
Catalytic converter
mounting bolts. A
Manual transmission
oil R
I I I I I I I I I I I I
Automatic
transmission oil I
I I I R I I I R I I I R
Rear axle oil R I I I I I I I I I I I I
Exhaust system I I I I I I I
1) See section "Engine Oil" for detailed information.
2) For services beyond 60,000 miles (96,000 km), consult your Mainten\
ance Service Chart.
3) Recommended, but not mandatory to maintain Volvo emission warranty. \
4) Does not pertain to B230F/EGR.
5) B230F/EGR inspect every 10,000 mile (16,000 km). pg. 57 Servicing
Maintenance
operation Miles
(km) 600-
1,200
(1,000-
2,000)
5,000
(8,000)
10,000
(16,000) 15,000
(24,000) 20,000
(32,000) 25,000
(40,000) 30,000
(48,000) 35,000
(56,000) 40,000
(64,000) 45,000
(72,000) 50,000
(80,000) 55,000
(88,000) 60,000
(96,000)
MISCELLANEOUS
MAINTENANCE
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Volvo 1990 240 Model
1 Data plate
2 Oil filler cap, engine
3 Oil dipstick, engine
4 Brake fluid reservoir
5 Washer fluid reservoir
6 Expansion tank, coolant
7 Battery
8 Oil reservoir, power steering
9 Fuse, engine control pg. 60 Fuel requirements
Unleaded Fuel
Each Volvo has a catalytic converter and must use only unleaded gasoline\
(as specified on the
instrument panel and by a label near the filter inlet). U.S. and Canadi\
an regulations require that pumps
delivering unleaded gasoline be labeled "UNLEADED". Only these pumps hav\
e nozzles which fit your
car's filler inlet. It is unlawful to dispense leaded fuel into a vehicl\
e labelled "unleaded gasoline only".
Leaded gasoline damages the catalytic converter and the oxygen sensor sy\
stem. Repeated use of leaded
gasoline will lessen the effectiveness of the emission control system an\
d could result in loss of emission
warranty coverage. State and local vehicle inspection programs will make\
detection of misfueling easier,
possibly resulting in emission test failure for misfueled vehicles.
Octane Rating
Volvo recommends the use of premium unleaded gasoline with an (R+M)/2 \
rating of 91. This is
generally equivalent to a Research Octane Number (RON) of 95 or higher\
.
Deposit Control Gasolines
Volvo recommends the use of gasolines that contain "Deposit Control" add\
itives. These additives are
specially formulated to prevent the build up of certain injector and int\
ake system deposits. Fuels
containing "Deposit Control" additives are usually advertised as contain\
ing them and may have
additional claims to "clean injectors and intake valves" or similar word\
ing.
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