Sport mode (R-models only)
R-models are equipped with a (S)port button that can be used to engage/disengage the Sport shifting mode. An
indicator light in the button will go on when Sport mode is engaged.
With Sport mode engaged, the transmission will shift up at higher rpm in first and second gears, and will also shift
down at higher rpm for more immediate engine response during acceleration and deceleration.
pg. 94 Starting and driving
All Wheel Drive (option)
All Wheel Drive (AWD) - general information
Your Volvo can be equipped with permanent All Wheel Drive, which means that power is distributed automatically
between the front and rear wheels. Under normal driving conditions, most engine's power is directed to the front
wheels. However, if there is any tendency for the front wheels to spin, an electronically controlled coupling distributes
power to the wheels that have the best traction.
Tire dimensions
Volvo recommends that you always drive on tires of the same brand, size, construction (radial), tread pattern, load-,
speed-, traction-, temperature-, and treadwear rating. Never drive on mixed tires, except for brief periods when the
temporary spare tire is in use.
Always use properly inflated tires of correct dimensions. Tire size and inflation pressures are shown on the tire
inflation pressure placards, located on the driver's side B-pillar (the structural member at the side of the vehicle, at the
rear of the driver's door opening), or on the inside of the fuel filler door on Canadian models.
Temporary Spare
The temporary spare tire is for temporary, low-speed, short-distance use only. Replace it with a full-size tire as soon as
possible. Do not drive on the temporary spare at speeds above 50 mph (80 km/h) or for distances greater than 50 miles
(80 km.)
Never install snow chains on a temporary spare.
pg. 95 Starting and driving
Four-C active chassis system
Four-C active chassis
The FOUR-C (Continuously Controlled Chassis Concept) active chassis system, consisting of Comfort and Sport
modes, is available as an option.
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NOTE:
The S60 R has a standard FOUR-C system consisting of Comfort, Sport, and Advanced sport modes. The buttons for
controlling these driving modes are located in center instrument panel, above the ventilation system panel vents, see
the illustration below. These buttons can be pressed at any time to change driving modes. An indicator light in the
selected button will come on to indicate the driving mode that is currently selected.
This system is based on a number of sensors that continuously monitor factors such as the car's lateral and vertical
movements, speed, and movements of the wheels. The sensors receive data up to 500 times per second, which is used
to provide extremely fast and precise adjustment of each shock absorber. The system adjusts the stiffness of the shock
absorbers approximately 100 times per second.
Comfort
The Comfort mode chassis setting offers the greatest amount of shock absorption and the softest ride. This mode is
recommended for long-distance driving, or when driving in slippery conditions. The indicator light in the button will
be off when this mode is selected.
If Comfort mode was selected when the engine was switched off, this mode will still be active when the engine is
restarted.
Sport
In this mode, shock absorption is stiffer to reduce the car's body sway during cornering and to provide more immediate
steering response. The indicator light in the button will come on to indicate that Sport mode has been selected.
If this setting was selected when the engine was switched off, Sport mode will still be active when the engine is
restarted.
S60 R buttons on the dashboard
Advanced Sport (S60R only)
In this mode, movement of the shock absorbers is minimal, response from pressure on the throttle pedal is more direct,
and body sway in curves or when cornering is sharply reduced.
If Advanced sport mode was selected when the engine was switched off, Sport mode will be active when the engine
is restarted.
pg. 96 Starting and driving
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Brake system
BRAKE Brake circuit malfunction
The brake system is a hydraulic system consisting of two master cylinders and two separate brake circuits. If a
problem should occur in one of these circuits, it is still possible to stop the car 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 failure - Service urgent" message is displayed
in the text window: DO NOT DRIVE. Have the car towed to a Volvo retailer and have the brake system inspected.
NOTE: When the car is at a standstill and the engine is idling, e.g. at a traffic light and the brake pedal is depressed,
the pedal may go down slightly. This is a normal function of the power-assisted brake system.
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 four 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
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 towing. 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.
pg. 97 Starting and driving
Anti-lock brakes (ABS)
If the warning lamp lights up there is a malfunction of the ABS system (the standard braking system will however
function) and the vehicle should be driven cautiously to a Volvo retailer for inspection. 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
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prevent lockup, which 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 mph (20 km/h). The brake pedal will pulsate several times and a sound may be audible from the
ABS control module. This is normal.
To obtain optimal effect from the ABS system, constant pressure should be kept 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.
ABS with EBD (Electronic Brake Force Distribution)
EBD is an integrated part of the ABS system. EBD regulates the hydraulic pressure to the rear brakes to help provide
optimal braking capacity. The brake pedal will pulsate during braking, which is normal.
If the BRAKE and ABS warning lights come on at the same time, this could indicate a fault in the brake system.
Stop the car in a suitable place and switch off the engine.
Restart the engine.
If both warning lights go off, no further action is required.
If both lights are still on after the engine has been restarted, switch off the engine again and check the brake fluid
level (see page 141
for the location of the brake fluid reservoir).
WARNING!
If the fluid level is below the MIN mark in the reservoir or if a "Brake failure - Service urgent" message is displayed
in the text window: DO NOT DRIVE. Have the car towed to a Volvo retailer and have the brake system inspected.
If the brake fluid level is above the MIN mark, drive carefully to an authorized Volvo retailer and have the brake
system inspected.
Emergency Brake Assistance (EBA)
The EBA function is designed to provide full brake effect immediately in the event of sudden, hard braking. The
system is activated by the speed with which you depress the brake pedal.
When the EBA system is activated, the brake pedal will go down and pressure in the brake system immediately
increases to the maximum level. You must maintain full pressure on the brake pedal in order to utilize the system
completely. EBA is automatically deactivated when the brake pedal is released.
When the car has been parked for some time, the brake pedal may sink more than usual when the engine is started.
This is normal and the pedal will return to its usual position when it is released.
Contents | Top of Page
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2 0 0 6
VOLVO S60
Car care
pg. 129 Car care
Washing and cleaning the car 130
Paint touch up133
pg. 130 Car care
Washing and cleaning the car
The car should be washed at regular intervals since dirt, dust, insects and tar spots adhere to the paint and may cause
damage. It is particularly important to wash the car frequently in the wintertime to prevent corrosion, when salt has
been used on the roads.
When washing the car, do not expose it to direct sunlight. Use lukewarm water to soften the dirt before you wash
with a sponge, and plenty of water, to avoid scratching.
Bird droppings: Remove from paintwork as soon as possible. Otherwise the finish may be permanently damaged.
A detergent can be used to facilitate the softening of dirt and oil.
A water-soluble grease solvent may be used in cases of sticky dirt. However, use a wash place equipped with a
drainage separator.
Dry the car with a clean chamois and remember to clean the drain holes in the doors and rocker panels.
Tar spots can be removed with kerosene or tar remover after the car has been washed.
A stiff-bristle brush and lukewarm soapy water can be used to clean the wiper blades. Frequent cleaning improves
visibility considerably.
Wash off the dirt from the underside (wheel housings, fenders, etc.).
In areas of high industrial fallout, more frequent washing is recommended.
CAUTION:
During high pressure washing, the spray mouthpiece must never be closer to the vehicle than 13" (30 cm). Do not
spray into the locks.
When washing or steam cleaning the engine, avoid spraying water or steam directly on the electrical components or
toward the rear side of the engine.
Special moonroof cautions:
Always close the moonroof and sun shade before washing your vehicle.
Never use abrasive cleaning agents on the moonroof.
Never use wax on the rubber seals around the moonroof.
After cleaning the engine, the spark plug wells should be inspected for water and blown dry if necessary.
Suitable detergents: Special car washing detergents should be used. A suitable mixture is about 2.5 fl. oz. (8.5 cl) of
detergent to 2.6 US gal. (10 liters) of warm water. After washing with a detergent the car should be well rinsed with
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clean water.
Exterior plastic components
Cleaning exterior plastic components should be done with a cleaning agent specially designed for this purpose.
Solvents or stain removers should not be used. Consult your Volvo retailer.
NOTE: When washing the car, remember to remove dirt from the drain holes in the doors and sills.
WARNING!
When the car is driven immediately after being washed, apply the brakes several times in order to remove any
moisture from the brake linings.
Engine cleaning agents should not be used when the engine is warm. This constitutes a fire risk.
Automatic washing - simple and quick
We do NOT recommend washing your car in an automatic wash during the first six months (because the paint will
not have hardened sufficiently).
An automatic wash is a simple and quick way to clean your car, but it is worth remembering that it may not be as
thorough as when you yourself go over the car with sponge and water. Keeping the underbody clean is most important,
pg. 131 Car care
especially in the winter. Some automatic washers do not have facilities for washing the underbody.
Before driving into an automatic car wash, make sure that side view mirrors, auxiliary lamps, etc, are secure, and
that any antenna(s) are retracted or removed. Otherwise there is risk of the machine dislodging them.
Polishing and Waxing
Normally, polishing is not required during the first year after delivery, however, waxing may be beneficial.
Before applying polish or wax the car must be washed and dried. Tar spots can be removed with kerosene or tar
remover. Difficult spots may require a fine rubbing compound.
After polishing use liquid or paste wax.
Several commercially available products contain both polish and wax.
Waxing alone does not substitute for polishing a dull surface.
A wide range of polymer-based car waxes can be purchased today. These waxes are easy to use and produce a
long-lasting, high-gloss finish that protects the bodywork against oxidation, road dirt and fading.
Do not polish or wax your car in direct sunlight (the surface of the car should not be warmer than 113° F (45° C).
CAUTION:
Volvo does not recommend the use of long life or durable paint protection coatings, some of which may claim to
prevent pitting, fading, oxidation, etc. These coatings have not been tested by Volvo for compatibility with your
vehicle's clear coat. Some of them may cause the clear coat to soften, crack, or cloud. Damage caused by application
of paint protection coatings may not be covered under your vehicle's paint warranty.
Mirrors/side windows with the water repellent glass coating-option
Do not apply wax, degreasing agents, etc to this glass. This could damage the coating.
Clean the glass surface with care to avoid scratching.
Use only suitable plastic scrapers to remove ice or snow from the windows.
NOTE: The water repellent coating is subject to natural wear. In order to maintain the coating's water repellent
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Start from the outside of the stain and work toward the center.
pg. 133 Car care
Paint touch up
Paint damage requires immediate attention to avoid rusting. Make it a habit to check the finish regularly - when
washing the car for instance. Touch-up if necessary.
Paint repairs require special equipment and skill. Contact your Volvo retailer for any extensive damage.
Minor scratches can be repaired by using Volvo touch-up paint.
NOTE: When ordering touch-up paint from your Volvo retailer, use the paint code indicated on the model plate. The
plate is located in the engine compartment.
Color code
Make sure you have the right color. The color code number is on the data plate in the engine compartment.
Minor stone chips and scratches
Material:
Primer - can
Paint - touch-up pen
Brush
Masking tape
If the stone chip has not gone down to the bare metal and an undamaged color coat remains, you can add paint
immediately after removing dirt.
NOTE: When touching up the car, it should be clean and dry. The surface temperature should be above 60° F (15° C).
Minor scratches on the surface
If the stone chip has not penetrated down to the metal and an undamaged layer of paint remains, the touch-up paint can
be applied as soon as the spot has been cleaned.
Deep scratches
1. Place a strip of masking tape over the damaged surface. Pull the tape off so that any loose flakes of paint adhere to
it.
2. Thoroughly mix the primer and apply it with a small brush.
When the primer surface is dry, the paint can be applied using a brush. Mix the paint thoroughly; apply several thin
paint coats and let dry after each application.
3. If there is a longer scratch, you may want to protect surrounding paint by masking it off.
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2 0 0 6
VOLVO S60
Maintenance and service
pg. 135 Maintenance and service
Volvo service 136
Maintaining your car137
Emission inspection readiness138
Working on your car139
Hood and engine compartment141
Engine oil142
Wiper blades146
Battery147
Replacing bulbs150
Fuses157
Fuse box in the passenger compartment, behind the plastic cover159
pg. 136 Maintenance and service
Volvo service
Maintenance service
Periodic maintenance will help keep your vehicle running well. Your Warranty and Service Records Information
booklet provides a comprehensive maintenance schedule up to 150,000 miles (240,000 km) of vehicle service. This
maintenance program contains inspections and services necessary for the proper function of your car, and includes
components that affect vehicle emissions. The maintenance services contain several checks that require special
instruments and tools and therefore must be performed by a qualified technician. Volvo advises you to follow the
service program outlined in this booklet. To keep your Volvo in top condition, specify time-tested and proven Genuine
Volvo Parts and Accessories.
The Federal Clean Air Act - U. S.
The Federal Clean Air Act requires vehicle manufacturers to furnish written instructions to the ultimate purchaser to
assure the proper servicing and function of the components that control emissions. These services, which are listed in
the "Warranty and Service Records Information booklet," are not covered by the warranty. You will be required to pay
for labor and material used.
Maintenance services
Your Volvo passed several major inspections before it was delivered to you, in accordance with Volvo specifications.
The maintenance services outlined in the Warranty and Service Records Information booklet, many of which will
positively affect your vehicle's emissions, should be performed as indicated. It is recommended that receipts for
vehicle emission services be retained in case questions arise concerning maintenance.
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