Vehicle loading
Properly loading your vehicle will provide maximum return of vehicle design performance.
Before loading your vehicle, familiarize yourself with the following terms for determining your vehicle's weight
ratings, with or without a trailer, from the vehicle's Federal/Canadian Motor Vehicle Safety Standards
(FMVSS/CMVSS) label, and the vehicle's tire information placard:
Curb weight
The weight of the vehicle including a full tank of fuel and all standard equipment. It does not include passengers,
cargo, or optional equipment.
Capacity weight
All weight added to the curb weight, including cargo and optional equipment. When towing, trailer hitch tongue load
is also part of cargo weight.
NOTE
For trailer towing information, please refer to the section "Towing a trailer" on page 155
.
Permissible axle weight
The maximum allowable weight that can be carried by a single axle (front or rear). These numbers are shown on the
Federal/Canadian Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS/CMVSS) label. The total load on each axle must never
exceed its maximum permissible weight.
Gross vehicle weight (GVW)
The vehicle's curb weight + cargo + passengers.
NOTE
The location of the various labels in your vehicle can be found on page 252.
A table listing important weight limits for your vehicle can be found on page 255.
Steps for Determining Correct Load Limit
1. Locate the statement ''the combined weight of occupants and cargo should never exceed XXX pounds'' on your
vehicle's placard.
2. Determine the combined weight of the driver and passengers that will be riding in your vehicle.
3. Subtract the combined weight of the driver and passengers from XXX kilograms or XXX pounds.
4. The resulting figure equals the available amount of cargo and luggage load capacity. For example, if the ''XXX''
amount equals 1400 lbs. and there will be five 150 lb. passengers in your vehicle, the amount of available cargo and
luggage load capacity is 650 lbs. (1400-750 (5 x 150) = 650 lbs.)
5. Determine the combined weight of luggage and cargo being loaded on the vehicle. That weight may not safely
exceed the available cargo and luggage load capacity calculated in Step 4.
6. If your vehicle will be towing a trailer, load from your trailer will be transferred to your vehicle. Consult this
manual
1 to determine how this reduces the available
1See "Towing a trailer" on page 155.
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Tire sealing system
Introduction
Certain models are equipped with a tire sealing system that enables you to temporarily seal a hole in the tread surface
and reinflate a flat tire, or to adjust a tire's inflation pressure.
The system consists of an air compressor, a container for the sealing compound, wiring to connect the system to the
vehicle's electrical system via one of the 12-volt sockets, and a hose used to connect the system to the tire's inflation
valve.
The 12-volt sockets are located in the front tunnel console and in the trunk (option). See pages 66
and 108.
Accessing the tire sealing system
The tire sealing system is stowed in the compartment in the rear side of the ski hatch in the center of the rear seat
backrest. See page 109
for information on opening this hatch
NOTE
The tire sealing system is only intended to seal holes on the tire's tread area, not the sidewall.
Tires with large holes or tears cannot be repaired with the tire sealing system.
WARNING
After using the tire sealing system, the vehicle should not be driven farther than approximately 120 miles (200
km). Have the tire replaced as soon as possible.
The vehicle should not be driven faster than 50 mph (80 km/h) while using a tire that has been temporarily
repaired with the tire sealing system.
After using the tire sealing system, drive carefully and avoid abrupt steering maneuvers and sudden stops.
187 07 Wheels and tires
Tire sealing system
Overview
1. Speed limit sticker
2. On/Off switch
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9. Start the vehicle's engine.
WARNING
The vehicle's engine should be running when the tire sealing system is used to avoid battery drain. Therefore, be sure
the vehicle is parked in a well ventilated place, or outdoors, before using the system.
10. Start the tire sealing system's compressor by pressing the on/off switch to position I .
WARNING
Never stand next to the tire being inflated when the compressor is in operation.
If cracks, bubbles, etc. form on the tire, switch off the compressor immediately.
If there is visible damage to the sidewall or the rim, the tire cannot be repaired. The vehicle should not be driven if
this occurs. Contact a towing service or Volvo On Call Roadside Assistance if applicable.
NOTE
The air pressure gauge will temporarily show an increase in pressure to approximately 88 psi (6 bar) while the
sealing compound is being pumped into the tire. The pressure should return to a normal level after approximately 30
seconds.
11. Within seven minutes, inflate the tire to between 22-44 psi (1.8-3.0 bar). Switch off the compressor briefly to get a
clear reading from the pressure gauge.
CAUTION
The compressor should not be used for more than 10 minutes at a time to avoid overheating.
WARNING
If the pressure remains below 22 psi (1.8 bar) after approximately seven minutes, turn off the compressor. In this
case, the hole is too large to be sealed and the vehicle should not be driven.
12. Switch off the compressor and disconnect the electrical wire from the 12-volt socket.
13. Unscrew the hose from the tire's inflation valve and reinstall the valve cap.
14. Immediately drive the vehicle for approximately 2 miles (3 km) at a maximum speed of 50 mph (80 km/h) to
distribute the sealing compound in the tire.
NOTE
Safely stow the tire sealing system in a convenient place as it will soon be used again to check the tire's inflation
pressure.
After use, the empty bottle of sealing compound cannot be removed from the bottle holder. Consult a Volvo
retailer to have the bottle removed and properly disposed of.
WARNING
If heavy vibrations, unsteady steering behavior, or noises should occur while driving, reduce speed and park the
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vehicle in a safe place. Recheck the tire for bumps, cracks, or other visible damage, and recheck its inflation
pressure. If the pressure is below 19 psi (1.3 bar), do not continue driving. Have the vehicle towed to a workshop or
Volvo retailer.
Stage 2: Checking inflation pressure
1. Connect the tire sealing system as described in stage 1.
2. Refer to the tables on pages 172 and 173
for the correct tire inflation pressure. If the tire needs to be
191 07 Wheels and tires
Tire sealing system
inflated, start the tire sealing system's compressor. If necessary, release air from the tire by turning the air release knob
counterclockwise.
CAUTION
The compressor should not be used for more than 10 minutes at a time to avoid overheating.
WARNING
If you interrupt your trip for more than 1 hour, check the inflation pressure in the damaged tire again before
continuing.
Replacing the sealing compound container
The sealing compound container must be replaced if:
the tire sealing system has been used to repair a tire
NOTE
After use, the sealing compound bottle, the hose, and certain other system components must be replaced. Please
consult your Volvo retailer for replacement parts.
the container's expiration date has passed (see the date on decal).
NOTE
If the sealing compound bottle's expiration date has passed, please take it to a Volvo retailer or a recycling station
that can properly dispose of harmful substances.
192 07 Wheels and tires
Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
Introduction
The tire pressure monitoring system uses sensors mounted in the tire valves to check inflation pressure levels. When
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NOTE
When washing the car, remember to remove dirt from the drain holes in the doors and sills.
Exterior components
Volvo recommends the use of special cleaning products, available at your Volvo retailer, for cleaning colored plastic,
rubber, or ornamental components such as chromed strips on the exterior of your vehicle. The instructions for using
these products should be followed carefully. Solvents or stain removers should not be used.
CAUTION
Avoid waxing or polishing plastic or rubber components
Polishing chromed strips can wear away or damage the surface
Polishes containing abrasive substances should not be used
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.
Dirt, snow, etc., on the headlights can reduce lighting capacity considerably. Clean the headlights regularly, for
example when refueling.
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.
Chromed wheels : Clean chrome-plated wheels using the same detergents used for the body of the vehicle.
Aggressive wheel-cleaning agents can permanently stain chrome-plated wheels.
197 08 Car care
Washing and cleaning the vehicle
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, especially in the winter. Some automatic washers do not have
facilities for washing the underbody.
CAUTION
Before driving into an automatic car wash, turn off the optional rain sensor to avoid damaging the windshield
wipers.
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.
WARNING
When the car is driven immediately after being washed, apply the brakes several times in order to remove any
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Volvo also offers a special leather softener that should be applied after the cleaner and protectant. It leaves leather soft
and smooth, and reduces friction between leather and other finishes in the vehicle.
Volvo recommends cleaning, protecting and conditioning your vehicle's leather two to four times a year. Ask your
Volvo retailer about Leather Care Kit 951 0251 and Leather Softener 943 7429.
Cleaning leather upholstery
1. Pour leather cleaner on a damp sponge and squeeze it until the cleaner foams.
2. Apply the foam to the stain by moving the sponge with circular movements.
3. Dampen the stain thoroughly with the sponge. Let the sponge absorb the stain, do not rub.
4. Dry the stain with soft paper towels or a towel, and allow the leather to dry completely.
Protecting leather upholstery
1. Put a small amount of protectant cream on a cloth and apply a thin coating of cream to the upholstery with light
circular movements.
2. Allow the leather to dry for 20 minutes.
This will help the leather resist staining and protect against sunlight's harmful UV rays.
CAUTION
Under no circumstances should gasoline, naphtha or similar cleaning agents be used on the plastic or the leather
since these can cause damage.
Take extra care when removing stains such as ink or lipstick since the coloring can spread.
Use solvents sparingly. Too much solvent can damage the seat padding.
Start from the outside of the stain and work toward the center.
Sharp objects (e.g. pencils or pens in a pocket) or Velcro fasteners on clothing may damage the textile upholstery.
Clothing that is not colorfast, such as new jeans or suede garments, may stain the upholstery.
199 08 Car care
Washing and cleaning the vehicle
Cleaning the seat belts
Clean only with lukewarm water and a mild soap solution.
Cleaning floor mats
The floor mats should be vacuumed or brushed clean regularly, especially during winter when they should be taken out
for drying. Spots on textile mats can be removed with a mild detergent. For best protection in winter, Volvo
recommends the use of Volvo rubber floor mats. Consult your Volvo retailer.
200 08 Car care
Paint touch up
Touching up minor paint damage
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Each time the car is refueled:
Check the engine oil level
Clean the windshield, windshield wipers, headlights, and taillights
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 a trained and qualified Volvo service technician 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.
Clean leaves and twigs from air intake vents at the base of the windshield, and from other places where they may
collect.
NOTE
Complete service information for qualified technicians is available online for purchase or subscription at
www.volvotechinfo.com.
206 09 Maintenance and servicing
Maintaining your vehicle
Emission inspection readiness
What is an Onboard Diagnostic System (OBD II)?
OBD II is part of your vehicle's computerized engine management system. It stores diagnostic information about your
vehicle's emission controls. It can light the Check Engine light (MIL) if it detects an emission control "fault." A "fault"
is a component or system that is not performing within an expected range. A fault may be permanent or temporary.
OBD II will store a message about any fault.
How Do States Use OBD II for Emission Inspections?
Many states connect a computer directly to a vehicle's OBD II system. The inspector can then read "faults." In some
states, this type of inspection has replaced the tailpipe emission test.
How Can My Vehicle Fail OBD II Emission Inspection ?
Your vehicle can fail OBD II emission inspection for any of the following reasons.
If your Check Engine (MIL) light is lit, your vehicle may fail inspection.
If your vehicle's Check Engine light was lit, but went out without any action on your part, OBD II will still have a
recorded fault. Your vehicle may pass or fail, depending on the inspection practices in your area.
If you had recent service that required disconnecting the battery, OBD II diagnostic information may be incomplete
and "not ready" for inspection. A vehicle that is not ready may fail inspection.
How Can I Prepare for My Next OBD II Emission Inspection ?
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The brake fluid should always be between the MIN and MAX marks on the side of the reservoir. Check, without
removing the cap, that there is sufficient fluid in the reservoir.
Fluid type: DOT 4+ boiling point > 536°F (280°C), P/N 9437433
Replace : The fluid should be replaced according to the intervals specified in the Warranty and Service Records
Information booklet. When driving under extremely hard conditions (mountain driving, etc), it may be necessary to
replace the fluid more often. Consult your Volvo retailer. Always entrust brake fluid changing to a trained and
qualified Volvo service technician.
Power steering fluid
The fluid level is checked at each service interval.
Fluid type : Volvo power steering fluid or equivalent.
Replace : No fluid change required.
WARNING
If a problem should occur in the power steering system or if the vehicle has no electrical current and must be towed,
it is still possible to steer the vehicle. However, keep in mind that greater effort will be required to turn the steering
wheel.
213 09 Maintenance and servicing
Wiper blades
Replacing windshield wiper blades
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