Check state of the battery's charge.
Examine tires carefully (the spare tire as well), and replace those that are worn. Check tire pressures.
The brakes, front wheel alignment, and steering gear should be checked by a trained and qualified Volvo service
technician only.
Check all lights, including high beams.
Reflective warning triangles are legally required in some states/provinces.
Have a word with a trained and qualified Volvo service technician if you intend to drive in countries where it may
be difficult to obtain the correct fuel.
Consider your destination. If you will be driving through an area where snow or ice are likely to occur, consider
snow tires.
2. To prevent injury from contact with hot surfaces, do not inspect your vehicle's transmission fluid yourself. Have your vehicle's transmission fluid
level inspected by a trained and qualified Volvo service technician.
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Fuel requirements
Octane rating
Volvo engines are designed for optimum performance on unleaded premium gasoline with an AKI octane rating of 91
or above. AKI (ANTI KNOCK INDEX) is an average of the Research Octane Number, RON, and the Motor Octane
Number, MON. ((RON + MON)/2). The minimum octane requirement is AKI 87 (RON 91).
Deposit control gasoline (detergent additives)
Volvo recommends the use of detergent gasoline to control engine deposits. Detergent gasoline is effective in keeping
injectors and intake valves clean. Consistent use of deposit control gasolines will help ensure good driveability and
fuel economy. If you are not sure whether the gasoline contains deposit control additives, check with the service
station operator.
NOTE: Volvo does not recommend the use of store -bought fuel injector cleaning additives.
Unleaded fuel
Each Volvo has a three-way catalytic converter and must use only unleaded gasoline. U.S. and Canadian regulations
require that pumps delivering unleaded gasoline be labelled "UNLEADED". Only these pumps have nozzles which fit
your vehicle's filler inlet. It is unlawful to dispense leaded fuel into a vehicle labelled "unleaded gasoline only".
Leaded gasoline damages the three-way catalytic converter and the heated oxygen sensor system. Repeated use of
leaded gasoline will lessen the effectiveness of the emission control system and 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.
NOTE: Some U.S. and Canadian gasolines contain an octane enhancing additive called methyl-cyclopentadienyl
manganese tricarbonyl (MMT). If such fuels are used, your Emission Control System performance may be affected,
and the Check Engine Light (malfunction indicator lamp) located on your instrument panel may light. If this occurs,
please return your vehicle to a trained and qualified Volvo service technician for maintenance.
Gasoline containing alcohol and ethers
Some fuel suppliers sell gasoline containing "oxygenates" which are usually alcohols or ethers. In some areas, state or
local laws require that the service pump be marked indicating use of alcohols or ethers. However, there are areas in
which the pumps are unmarked. If you are not sure whether there is alcohol or ethers in the gasoline you buy, check
with the service station operator. To meet seasonal air quality standards, some areas require the use of "oxygenated"
fuel. Volvo allows the use of the following "oxygenated" fuels; however, the octane ratings listed on this page must
still be met.
Alcohol - Ethanol : Fuels containing up to 10% ethanol by volume may be used. Ethanol may also be referred to as
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Fuel requirements (contd.)
CAUTION!
Do not refuel with the engine running
a. Turn the ignition off or to position I. If the ignition is on, an incorrect
reading could occur in the fuel gauge
After refueling, close the fuel filler cap by turning it clockwise until it clicks into place.
Allow for fuel expansion by not overfilling the tank. Overfilling could also cause damage to the emission control
systems. Avoid spilling gasoline during refueling. In addition to causing damage to the environment, gasolines
containing alcohol can cause damage to painted surfaces, which may not be covered under the New Vehicle Limited
Warranty.
Do not use gasolines containing methanol (methyl alcohol, wood alcohol). This practice can result in vehicle
performance deterioration and can damage critical parts in the fuel system. Such damage may not be covered under
the New Vehicle Limited Warranty.
a. If the fuel filler cap is not closed tightly or if the engine is running when the vehicle is refueled, the Check Engine
Light (malfunction indicator lamp) may indicate a fault. However, your vehicle's performance will not be affected. Use
only Volvo original or approved fuel filler caps.
pg. 104 Starting and driving
Ignition switch and steering wheel lock
0 - Locked position
Remove the key to lock the steering wheel1. Never turn the key to position 0 while driving or when the
vehicle is being towed.
NOTE: A ticking sound may be audible if the key is turned to a position between 0 and I. To stop this sound, turn the
key to position II and back to position 0.
I - Intermediate position
2
Certain accessories, radio, etc. on, daytime running lights off.
II - Drive position
The key's position when driving. The vehicle's entire electrical system is activated.
III - Start position
Release the key when the engine starts. The key returns automatically to the Drive position.
A chime will sound if the key is left in the ignition and the driver's door is opened.
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Steering wheel lock
When the key is removed from the ignition, the steering wheel locks so that it cannot be turned.
If the front wheels are hard up against a curb, the steering wheel lock may be under too much tension to unlock. If so,
the key will turn in the ignition switch but the car will not start. At the same time, a message "Steering locked" will
appear in the driver information text display.
If this happens:
Remove the key from the ignition.
Turn the steering wheel slightly and hold it to relieve pressure on the lock mechanism. Reinsert it the key. The
steering should immediately unlock. If not, try again.
NOTE: In order to help reduce vehicle theft, make sure the steering wheel lock is engaged before leaving the vehicle.
WARNING!
Never switch off the ignition (turn the ignition key to position 0) or remove the key from the ignition switch while
the vehicle is in motion. This could cause the steering wheel to lock, which would make the vehicle impossible to
steer.
1. The gear selector must be in the Park position.
2. Please be aware that leaving the key in this position will increase battery drain.
pg. 105 Starting and driving
Starting the engine
To start the engine:
Fasten the seat belt.
WARNING!
Before starting, check that the seat, steering wheel and mirrors are adjusted properly. Make sure the brake pedal can
be depressed completely. Adjust the seat if necessary.
Apply the parking brake, if not already set. The gear selector (automatic transmission) is locked in the (P)ark position
(SHIFTLOCK). See also page 108
.
Manual transmission: The clutch must be fully depressed.
Without touching the accelerator pedal, turn the ignition key to the starting position. Allow the starter to operate for
up to 10 seconds. Release the key as soon as the engine starts. If the engine fails to start, repeat this step.
Autostart (T5 turbo with automatic transmission only)
This function makes it possible to start the vehicle without holding the key in position III. Turn the key to position III
and release it. The starter motor will then operate automatically (for up to ten seconds) until the engine starts.
NOTE: After a cold start, idle speed may be noticeably higher than normal for a short period. This is done to help
bring components in the emission control system to their normal operating temperature as quickly as possible, which
enables them to control emissions and help reduce the vehicle's impact on the environment.
For cold starts at altitudes above 6000 ft. (1800 meters), depress the accelerator pedal halfway and turn the key to
the starting position. Release the pedal slowly when the engine starts.
To release the gear selector from the (P)ark position, the engine must be running (or the ignition key must be in
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Overriding the shiftlock system
Shiftlock prevents the gear selector from being moved out of Park unless the ignition key is in position II and the
brake pedal is depressed.
In certain cases it may be necessary to move the gear selector from the Park position manually, for example if the
battery is discharged.
Manually overriding the Shiftlock system:
Apply the parking brake.
Depress the brake pedal.
There is a small cover behind P-R-N-D on the gear selector panel. Open the rear edge of the panel.
Insert the key blade (see page 88
) or a screwdriver into the opening and press it down until it bottoms and move the
gear selector out of the P position.
pg. 111 Starting and driving
Brake system
Brake circuit malfunction
The brake system is a hydraulic system consisting of two separate brake circuits. If a problem should occur in one of
these circuits, it is still possible to stop the vehicle with the other brake circuit.
If the brake pedal must be depressed farther than normal and requires greater foot pressure, the stopping distance will
be longer.
A warning light in the instrument panel will light up to warn the driver that a fault has occurred.
If this light comes on while driving or braking, stop immediately and check the brake fluid level in the reservoir
NOTE: Press the brake pedal hard and maintain pressure on the pedal - do not pump the brakes.
WARNING!
If the fluid level is below the MIN mark in the reservoir or if a brake system message is shown in the information
display: DO NOT DRIVE. Have the vehicle towed to a trained and qualified Volvo service technician and have the
brake system inspected.
Power brakes function only when the engine is running
The power brakes utilize vacuum pressure which is only created when the engine is running. Never let the vehicle roll
to a stop with the engine switched off.
If the power brakes are not working, the brake pedal must be pressed approximately five times harder than usual to
make up for the lack of power assistance. This can happen for example when towing your vehicle or if the engine is
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switched off when the vehicle is rolling. The brake pedal feels harder than usual.
Water on brake discs and brake pads affects braking
Driving in rain and slush or passing through an automatic 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 driving through rain, slush, etc. This will remove the water from the
brakes. Check that brake application feels normal. This should also be done after washing or starting in very damp or
cold weather.
Severe strain on the brake system
The brakes will be subject to severe strain when driving in mountains or hilly areas, or when towing a trailer. Vehicle
speed is usually slower, which means that the cooling of the brakes is less efficient than when driving on level roads.
To reduce the strain on the brakes, shift into a lower gear and let the engine help with the braking. Do not forget that if
you are towing a trailer, the brakes will be subjected to a greater than normal load.
Anti-lock brakes (ABS)
The Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) helps to improve vehicle control (stopping and steering) during severe braking
conditions by limiting brake lockup. When the system "senses" impending lockup, braking pressure is automatically
modulated in order to help prevent lockup that could lead to a skid.
The system performs a self -diagnostic test when the engine is started and when the vehicle first reaches a speed
of approximately 12 m.p.h. (20 km/h).
The brake pedal will pulsate several times and a sound may be audible from the ABS control module. This is normal.
pg. 112 Starting and driving
Brake system
Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD)
EBD is an integrated part of the ABS system. EBD regulates the hydraulic pressure to the rear brakes to help provide
optimal braking capacity.
NOTE: To obtain optimal effect from the ABS system:
Keep constant pressure on the brake pedal.
Do not pump the brake pedal.
The switching of the ABS modulator will be audible and the brake pedal will pulsate during braking. Please be aware
that ABS does not increase the absolute braking potential of the vehicle. While control will be enhanced, ABS will not
shorten stopping distances on slippery surfaces.
If the warning lamp lights up there is a malfunction of the ABS system (the standard braking system will still function)
and the vehicle should be driven cautiously to a trained and qualified Volvo service technician for inspection.
WARNING!
If the BRAKE and ABS warning symbols light at the same time, there may be a problem in the brake system. If the
brake fluid level is normal in these circumstances, drive carefully to the nearest Volvo workshop to have the brake
system checked.
Emergency Brake Assistance - EBA
EBA is designed to provide full brake effect immediately in the event of sudden, hard braking. The system is activated
by the speed with which the brake pedal is depressed.
When the EBA system is activated, the brake pedal will go down and pressure in the brake system immediately
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the vehicle shows a tendency to skid or slide laterally. A pulsating sound will be audible when the function is active,
which is quite normal. If you apply the brakes while this function is active, the brake pedal will feel stiffer than usual.
This function cannot be disabled.
pg. 114 Starting and driving
Stability system
DSTC-related symbols in the instrument panel
The symbol in the instrument panel lights up and goes out again after approx. 2 seconds
The symbol lights up for a system check when the car is started.
Flashing symbol
Spin Control is actively functioning to help avoid loss of traction during acceleration.
Traction Control is actively functioning to help avoid drive-wheel spin.
Active Yaw Control is actively functioning to help avoid skids or lateral slides.
The information symbol lights up and remains on
STC/DSTC SPIN CONTROL
OFF is shown in the information display.
The Spin Control function has been disabled with the STC/DSTC button.
The information symbol lights up and remains on
TRACTION CONTROL TEMPORARILY
OFF is shown in the information display with the symbol.
The Traction Control function has been temporarily reduced due to high brake temperature. The function is reactivated
automatically when the brake temperature returns to normal levels.
The information symbol lights up and remains on
ANTI-SKID SERVICE REQUIRED
is shown in the information display with the symbol.
The STC or DSTC system has been switched off because of faults.
Stop the car in a safe place and switch off the engine.
Restart the engine.
If the warning symbol remains lit, drive to a trained and qualified Volvo service technician to have the system
checked.
pg. 115 Starting and driving
Park assist (accessory)
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Screw the towing eyelet in place first by hand and then using the tire iron until it is securely in place (3).
After the vehicle has been towed, the eyelet should be unscrewed and returned to its storage place. Press the plastic
cover in bumper back into position.
WARNING!
Volvo does not recommend towing a disabled vehicle behind another vehicle. Significant difficulty in steering and
braking, combined with unfavorable weather, traffic, and road conditions may make it impossible to maintain
vehicle control.
Towing a vehicle with all four wheels on the ground
Apply the parking brake.
Insert the key into the ignition to unlock the steering wheel. The steering wheel must be unlocked. With the engine
off and the vehicle at a standstill, great effort will be required to turn the steering wheel.
WARNING!
Towing a vehicle with a locked steering wheel will make the vehicle impossible to steer.
Turn the ignition key to position II.
Place the gear selector in neutral. For vehicles with automatic transmissions, follow instruction on page 110,
"Shiftlock override" to allow the gear selector to be moved from the Park position.
Keep firm pressure on the brake pedal while releasing the parking brake.
When towing has been completed, return the gear selector to Park (automatic) or Reverse (manual) and apply the
parking brake.
pg. 118 Starting and driving
Towing
The following points should also be observed:
Never exceed 50 mph (80 km/h). Never exceed local towing speed limits and heed all local towing restrictions.
Never tow farther than 50 miles (80 km).
Keep the tow rope taut at all times while the vehicle is in motion.
The disabled vehicle should be towed in the forward direction only.
WARNING!
Never allow a vehicle to be towed without a driver behind the wheel of the disabled vehicle.
Never remove the key from the ignition while the vehicle is moving. The steering wheel could lock, making it
impossible to steer the vehicle.
When the engine is not running, steering resistance and the effort needed to apply the brakes will be great.
Never attempt to tow a vehicle with a dead battery at night.
CAUTION!
Check with state and local authorities before attempting this type of towing, as vehicles being towed are subject to
regulations regarding maximum towing speed, length and type of towing device, lighting, marker flags, etc.
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In accordance with applicable U.S. and Canadian regulations, the following list of warranties is provided.
New Vehicle Limited Warranty
Parts and Accessories Limited Warranty
Corrosion Protection Limited Warranty
Seat Belt and Supplemental Restraint Systems Limited Warranty
Emission Design and Defect Warranty
Emission Performance Warranty
These are the federal warranties; other warranties are provided as required by state/ provincial law. Refer to your
separate Warranty and Service Records Information booklet for detailed information concerning each of the warranties.
Periodic maintenance helps minimize emissions
Periodic maintenance will help keep your vehicle running well. Your Warranty and Service Records Information
booklet provides a comprehensive periodic maintenance schedule up to 150,000 miles (240,000 km) of vehicle
maintenance. The schedule includes components that affect vehicle emissions. This page describes some of the
emission-related components.
Vehicle Event Data (Black Box)
Your vehicle's driving and safety systems employ computers that monitor, and share with each other, information
about your vehicle's operation. One or more of these computers may store what they monitor, either during normal
vehicle operation or in a crash or near-crash event. Stored information may be read and used by:
Volvo Car Corporation
service and repair facilities
law enforcement or government agencies
others who may assert a legal right to know, or who obtain your consent to know such information.
pg. 155 Maintenance and servicing
Maintaining your car
Owner maintenance
Periodic maintenance requirements and intervals are described in your vehicle's Warranty and Service Records
Information booklet.
The following points can be carried out between the normally scheduled maintenance services.
Each time the car is refueled:
Check the engine oil level
Clean the windshield, windshield wipers, headlights, and tail lights
Monthly:
Check cold tire pressure in all tires. Inspect the tires for wear.
Check that engine coolant and other fluid levels are between the indicated "min" and "max" markings.
Clean interior glass surfaces with a glass cleaner and soft paper towels.
Wipe driver information displays with a soft cloth.
Visually inspect battery terminals for corrosion. Corrosion may indicate a loose terminal connector, or a battery near
the end of its useful service life. Consult your Volvo retailer for additional information.
As needed:
Wash the car, including the undercarriage, to reduce wear that can be caused by a buildup of dirt, and corrosion that
can be caused by salt residues.
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