Intermittent wiper function
With the lever in this position, you can set the wiper interval by moving the thumb wheel (C) upward to increase wiper
speed or downward to decrease the speed.
Continuous wiper function
The wipers operate at "normal" speed.
High speed wiper function.
Windshield washers (A)
Pull the lever toward the steering wheel and release it. The wipers will make 2-3 sweeps across the windshield after the
lever has been released.
CAUTION
Use ample washer fluid when washing the windshield. The windshield should be thoroughly wet when the wipers
are in operation.
Headlight washers (certain models)
When the lever has been pulled, high pressure jets mounted in the bumper will spray the headlights.
The following applies to conserve washer fluid (see page 58
for information on the light switch positions):
Low/high beam headlights on
The headlights will be washed the first time the windshield is washed. Thereafter, the headlights will only be washed
once for every five times the windshield is washed within a 10-minute period.
Parking lights on
Optional Bi -Xenon headlights will be washed once for every five times the windshield is washed.
Normal halogen headlights will not be washed.
65 02 Instruments and controls
Rain sensor
B - Rain sensor (option)
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Volvo recommends the use of snow tires on all four wheels for winter driving - see the chapter "Wheels and tires."
To prevent the washer fluid reservoir from freezing, add washer solvents containing antifreeze (see age 188 for the
location of the washer fluid reservoir). This is important since dirt is often splashed on the windshield during winter
driving, requiring the frequent use of the washers and wipers. Volvo Washer Solvent should be diluted as follows:
Down to 14° F (-10° C): 1 part washer solvent and 4 parts water Down to 5° F (-15° C): 1 part washer solvent and 3
parts water Down to 0° F (- 18° C): 1 part washer solvent and 2 parts water Down to -18° F (-28° C): 1 part washer
solvent and 1 part water.
Use Volvo Teflon Lock Spray in the locks.
NOTE
Avoid using de -icing sprays as they can cause damage to the locks.
Conserving electrical current
Keep the following in mind to help minimize battery drain:
When the engine is not running, avoid turning the ignition key to position II. Many electrical systems (the audio
system, the optional navigation system, power windows, etc) will function with the ignition key in position I. This
position reduces drain on the battery.
Please keep in mind that using systems, accessories, etc that consume a great deal of current when the engine is not
running could result in the battery being completely drained.
The optional 12-volt socket in the cargo area provides electrical current even with the ignition switched off, which
drains the battery.
NOTE
If the ignition is switched on, a warning message will be displayed in the text window in the instrument panel
when the battery charge is low.
An energy conserving function designed into the vehicle's electrical system will switch off certain functions or
reduce the load on the battery by, e.g., reducing the audio system's volume.
Before a long distance trip
It is always worthwhile to have your vehicle checked at a Volvo retailer before driving long distances. Your retailer
will also be able to supply you with bulbs, fuses, spark plugs and wiper blades for your use in the event that problems
occur.
As a minimum, the following items should be checked before any long trip:
Check that engine runs smoothly and that fuel consumption is normal.
Check for fuel, oil, and fluid leakage
Have the transmission oil level checked1.
Check condition of drive belts.
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 your Volvo retailer only.
Check all lights, including high beams.
Reflective warning triangles are legally required in some states/provinces.
Have a word with your Volvo retailer 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.
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2. Power steering fluid reservoir (concealed behind the headlight)
3. Dipstick - engine oil
4. Radiator
5. Cooling fan
6. Washer fluid reservoir
7. Engine oil filler cap
8. Brake/clutch fluid reservoir
9. Battery
10. Relay/fuse box
11. Air cleaner
WARNING
The cooling fan may start or continue to operate (for up to 6 minutes) after the engine has been switched off.
189 09 Maintenance and servicing
Engine oil
Changing engine oil and oil filter
See page 231
for oil specifications. Refer to the Warranty and Service Records Information booklet for information on the
oil change intervals.
Volvo recommends
.
NOTE
Volvo does not recommend the use of oil additives.
Synthetic oil is not used when the oil is changed at the normal maintenance intervals except at owner request and at
additional charge. Please consult your Volvo retailer.
Checking and adding oil
The oil level should be checked every time the vehicle is refueled. This is especially important during the period up to the
first scheduled maintenance service
The car should be parked on a level surface when the oil is checked.
If the engine is warm , wait for at least 10- 15 minutes after the engine has been switched off before checking the oil.
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NOTE
Volvo uses different systems to indicate a low oil level or pressure. Some models have an oil pressure sensor, in which
case a warning symbol (see page 53
) is used to indicate low oil pressure. Other models have an oil level sensor, in which
case the driver is alerted by the warning symbol in the center of the instrument panel and a text in the information
display. Some models use both systems. Contact an authorized Volvo retailer for more information.
Washer fluid
The washer fluid reservoir is located in the engine compartment and holds approximately 6.8 US qts (6.5 liters). During
cold weather, the reservoir should be filled with windshield washer solvent containing antifreeze.
Coolant
Normally, the coolant does not need to be changed. If the system must be drained, consult your Volvo retailer.
NOTE
Do not top off with water only. This reduces the rust-protective and antifreeze qualities of the coolant and has a lower
boiling point. It can also cause damage to the cooling system if it should freeze. Top off with Volvo Genuine
Coolant/Antifreeze only (a 50/50 mix of water and antifreeze).
191 09 Maintenance and servicing
Fluids
CAUTION
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