Refueling
CAUTION!
- Do not refuel with the engine running
1. 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.
1
- Avoid overfilling the fuel tank. Do not press the handle on the filler nozzle more than one extra time. Too much
fuel in the tank in hot weather conditions can cause the fuel to overflow. 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.
1. 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. 111 Starting and driving
Starting the vehicle
Starting 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. See pages 80
and 82.
- Apply the parking brake (hand brake) if not already set. The gear selector (automatic transmission) is locked in the
( P )ark position ( SHIFTLOCK ). Manual transmission: the clutch must be fully depressed.
- Without touching the accelerator pedal, turn the ignition key
1 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.
NOTE:
If the key blade section of the remote is not fully folded out when starting the vehicle, the immobilizer function may
make it impossible to start the engine.
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
position II) and the brake pedal must be depressed.
- Select the desired gear. The gear engages after a very slight delay which is especially noticeable when selecting R.
NOTE : Your vehicle is equipped with a KEYLOCK system (automatic transmission). When the engine is switched
ProCarManuals.com
Remove snow tires when threat of snow or ice has ended.
Note that roof racks, ski racks, etc, increase air resistance and also fuel consumption.
Avoid using automatic transmission kickdown feature unless necessary.
However, at higher driving speeds, fuel consumption will be lower with the air conditioning on and the windows
closed than with the air conditioning off and the windows open.
Using the onboard trip computer's fuel consumption modes can help you learn how to drive more economically.
Other factors that decrease gas mileage are:
Dirty air cleaner
Dirty engine oil and clogged oil filter
Dragging brakes
Incorrect front end alignment.
Some of the above mentioned items and others are checked at the standard Maintenance Service intervals.
NOTE: Vehicles equipped with automatic transmissions should use (D)rive as often as possible and avoid using
"kickdown" to help improve fuel economy.
CAUTION!
Drive slowly and carefully if going through standing water (i.e. flooded roadways, etc.). Damage to the engine could
result if excess water is drawn in through the air intake system. Never drive the vehicle in water deeper than 1 foot
(300 mm).
pg. 114 Starting and driving
Handling and road holding
Weight distribution affects handling
At the specified curb weight your vehicle has a tendency to understeer, which means that the steering wheel has to be
turned more than might seem appropriate for the curvature of a bend.
This ensures good stability and reduces the risk of rear wheel skid. Remember that these properties can alter with the
vehicle load. The heavier the load in the trunk (max. 220 lbs, 100 kg), the less the tendency to understeer.
Handling, roadholding
Vehicle load, tire design and inflation pressure all affect vehicle handling. Therefore, check that the tires are inflated to
the recommended pressure according to the vehicle load. See "Tire pressure" section.
Loads should be distributed so that capacity weight or maximum permissible axle loads are not exceeded.
Speed-sensitive power steering (Option on certain models)
With this feature, the steering is most responsive at lower speeds to make parking, driving in city traffic, etc., easier.
The effect of the power steering diminishes as you accelerate for greater stability at highway speeds.
Driving through water
The vehicle can be driven through water up to a depth of approximately 9 in. (25 cm), at a maximum speed of 6 mph
(10 km/h).
Take particular care when driving through flowing water.
Clean the electrical connections for trailer wiring after driving in mud or water When driving through water, maintain
low speed and do not stop in the water.
WARNING!
ProCarManuals.com
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. 120 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-sized tire as soon
as possible. Do not drive on the temporary spare at speeds above 50 mph (80km/h) or for distances greater than 50
miles (80 km).
Never install snow chains on a temporary spare.
pg. 121 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.
NOTE: The S60 R has a standard FOUR-C system consisting of Comfort, Sport, and Advanced sport modes. The
ProCarManuals.com
buttons for controlling these driving modes are located in center instrument panel, above the ventilation system panel
vents, see the illustration in the right column. 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 vehicle'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.
Use the button in the center console to switch between the driving modes Comfort and Sport. This can be done at any
time.
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 vehicle'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.
Advanced sport (S60 R 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. 122 Starting and driving
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
ProCarManuals.com
The warning symbol
The warning symbol glows steadily yellow
The system has been temporarily switched off due to high brake temperature. "TRACTION CONTROL
TEMPORARILY OFF" will be displayed. The system will automatically switch on again when the brakes have cooled.
pg. 127 Starting and driving
Stability system
WARNING!
The stability system is intended to help improve driving safety. It supplements, but can never replace, the driver's
judgement and responsibility when operating the vehicle. Speed and driving style should always be adapted to
traffic and road conditions.
pg. 128 Starting and driving
Towing
Emergency towing
The towing eyelet is located in the tool bag, under the floor of the trunk, with the spare tire. This eyelet must be
screwed into the positions provided on the right sides of either the front or rear bumper (see illustrations).
To attach the towing eyelet:
A. Use a coin to pry open the lower edge of the cover.
B. Screw the towing eyelet (C) in place, first by hand and then using the tire iron until it is securely in place.
After the vehicle has been towed, the eyelet should be removed and returned to the tool bag. Press the cover back into
position.
ProCarManuals.com
To avoid damaging your vehicle and to achieve maximum safety when driving, we recommend using the load
carriers that Volvo has developed especially for your vehicle.
Volvo-approved removable roof racks are designed to carry the maximum allowable roof load for this vehicle: 220
lbs (100 kg). For Non-Volvo roof racks, check the manufacturer's weight limits for the rack.
Never exceed the rack manufacturer's weigh limits and never exceed the maximum rated roof load of 220 lbs (100
kg).
Avoid single-point loads. Distribute loads evenly.
Place heavier cargo at the bottom of the load.
Secure the cargo correctly with appropriate tie-down equipment.
Check periodically that the load carriers and load are properly secured.
Remember that the vehicle's center of gravity and handling change when you carry a load on the roof.
The vehicle's wind resistance and fuel consumption will increase with the size of the load.
Drive smoothly. Avoid rapid starts, fast cornering and hard braking.
Attaching load carriers
The attachment brackets for the load carriers are located under the roof molding.
- Make sure that the load carriers are placed in the right direction. See the mark on the decal under the cover.
- Press the guide lugs into the holes (1).
- Carefully lower the opposite side of the load carrier to the roof.
- Loosen the tightening wheel slightly. Slide the hook on the load carrier attachment into the attachment bracket under
the roof molding.
- Turn the tightening wheel to secure the load carrier in the attachment bracket.
pg. 135 Starting and driving
Load carriers (accessory)
- Repeat this procedure for the other load carrier attachments.
- Check that the hooks on all four load carrier attachments are securely tightened in the respective attachment brackets
on the roof of the vehicle.
- Press down the covers.
Check periodically that the load carriers and load are properly secured.
pg. 136 Starting and driving
Cold weather precautions
ProCarManuals.com
Tires should preferably be stored in a cool, dry, dark place, and should never be stored in close proximity to
solvents, gasoline, oils, etc.
Tread wear indicator
The tires have wear indicator strips running across or parallel to the tread. The letters TWI are printed on the side of
the tire. When approximately 1/16" (1.6 mm) is left on the tread, these strips become visible and indicate that the tire
should be replaced. Tires with less than 1/16" (1.6 mm) tread offer very poor traction.
When replacing worn tires, it is recommended that the tire be identical in type (radial) and size as the one being
replaced. Using a tire of the same make (manufacturer) will prevent alteration of the driving characteristics of the
vehicle.
pg. 143 Wheels and tires
General information
WARNING!
The wheel and tire sizes for your Volvo are specified to meet stringent stability and handling requirements.
Unapproved wheel/tire size combinations can negatively affect your vehicle's stability and handling. Approved tire
sizes are shown in the Tire inflation pressure tables on pages 146 and 147
.
Any damage caused by installation of unapproved wheel/tire size combinations will not be covered by your new
vehicle warranty. Volvo assumes no responsibility for death, injury, or expenses that may result from such
installations.
New tires
Remember that tires are perishable goods. As of 2000, the manufacturing week and year will be indicated with 4 digits
(e.g. 1502 means that the tire illustrated was manufactured during week 15 of 2002).
Tire age
Tires degrade over time, even when they are not being used. It is recommended that tires generally be replaced after 6
years of normal service. Heat caused by hot climates, frequent high loading conditions or Ultra Violet (U.V) exposure
can accelerate the aging process.
You should replace the spare tire when you replace the other road tires due to the aging of the spare.
A tire's age can be determined by the DOT stamp on the sidewall (see the illustration above).
ProCarManuals.com
Use a tire gauge to check the tire inflation pressure, including the spare, at least once a month and before long trips.
You are strongly urged to buy a reliable tire pressure gauge, as automatic service station gauges may be inaccurate.
Use the recommended cold inflation pressure for optimum tire performance and wear.
Under-inflation or over-inflation may cause uneven treadwear patterns.
WARNING!
Under-inflation is the most common cause of tire failure and may result in severe tire cracking, tread separation,
or "blowout," with unexpected loss of vehicle control and increased risk of injury.
Under-inflated tires reduce the load carrying capacity of your vehicle.
When weather temperature changes occur, tire inflation pressures also change. A 10- degree temperature drop causes a
corresponding drop of 1 psi (7 kPa) in inflation pressure. Check your tire pressures frequently and adjust them to the
proper pressure, which can be found on the vehicle's tire information placard or certification label.
Checking tire pressure
A certain amount of air seepage from the tires occurs naturally and tire pressure fluctuates with seasonal changes in
temperature. Always check tire pressure regularly.
Cold tires
Inflation pressure should be checked when the tires are cold.
pg. 145 Wheels and tires
General information
The tires are considered to be cold when they have the same temperature as the surrounding (ambient) air.
This temperature is normally reached after the vehicle has been parked for at least 3 hours.
After driving a distance of approximately 1 mile (1.6 km), the tires are considered to be hot. If you have to drive
farther than this distance to pump your tire(s), check and record the tire pressure first and add the appropriate air
pressure when you get to the pump.
If checking tire pressure when the tire is hot, never "bleed" or reduce air pressure. The tires are hot from driving and it
is normal for pressures to increase above recommended cold pressures. A hot tire at or below recommended cold
inflation pressure could be significantly under-inflated.
To check inflation pressure:
- Remove the cap from the valve on one tire, then firmly press the tire gauge onto the valve.
- Add air to reach the recommended air pressure.
- Replace the valve cap.
- Repeat this procedure for each tire, including the spare.
- Visually inspect the tires to make sure there are no nails or other objects embedded that could puncture the tire and
cause an air leak.
- Check the sidewalls to make sure there are no gouges, cuts, bulges or other irregularities.
NOTE:
If you overfill the tire, release air by pushing on the metal stem in the center of the valve. Then recheck the pressure
with your tire gauge.
Some spare tires require higher inflation pressure than the other tires. Consult the tire inflation tables on pages 146
and 147, or see the inflation pressure placard.
pg. 146 Wheels and tires
ProCarManuals.com