2008 VOLVO S40 battery

I - Intermediate position2
Certain accessories, radio, etc. on, daytime running lights off.
1Automatic transmission: the gear selector must be in the Park position. The optional keyless drive start control does not need to be removed.
2Please be aware that leaving the key in this positions I or II will increase battery drain.
II - Drive position
The key's position when driving. The vehicle's entire electrical system is activated.
III - Start position
Turn the key to this position and release it immediately. 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 (does not apply to vehicles with the
optional keyless drive).
Steering wheel lock
When the key is removed from the ignition, the steering wheel locks so that it cannot be turned.
NOTE
The steering wheel lock is activated when the driver's door is opened on vehicles with the optional keyless drive.
Releasing the steering wheel lock
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 turn wheel" will appear in the information display.
If this happens:
1. Remove the key
3 from the ignition.
2. Turn the steering wheel slightly and hold it to release pressure on the lock mechanism.
3. Reinsert the key and start the vehicle.
The steering should immediately unlock. If not, try again.
NOTE
ProCarManuals.com

Keyless drive makes it possible to unlock, start and lock the vehicle without using a remote control.
A start control is fitted in the ignition switch on vehicles equipped with the optional keyless drive. This control is used
in the same way as the ignition key to start the engine. See also page 136
for general information on starting the
engine.
NOTE
A keyless drive remote control must be in the passenger's compartment or in the trunk/cargo area in order to start the
engine.
1. Press the brake pedal (the clutch pedal must also be fully depressed on models with a manual transmission).
2. Press in the keyless drive start control and turn it to position III.
NOTE
The vehicle is equipped with an autostart function that makes it possible to start the engine without holding the start
control in position III. Turn the start control to position III and release it. The starter motor will then operate
automatically (for up to ten seconds) until the engine starts.
Starting the vehicle with the ignition key (remote control)
A vehicle with keyless drive can also be started with the ignition key (if, for example, the battery in the keyless drive
remote control is weak). To do so:
1. Press the catch on the side of the start control (see the illustration).
2. Pull the keyless drive start control out of the ignition switch.
3. Insert the remote control into the ignition switch and turn it to position III to start the engine. See also page 136
for
complete starting information.
139 06 Starting and driving
Manual transmission, 5-speed
5-speed manual transmission (option on certain models)
ProCarManuals.com

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.
152 06 Starting and driving
Towing
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.
Never attempt to push- or tow-start a vehicle with a dead battery. This would inject unburned fuel into the three-
way catalytic converter(s), causing overheating, backfiring, and damage. See page 153
for instructions on jump
starting the vehicle.
Towing vehicles with front wheel drive
Volvo recommends the use of flat bed equipment for towing vehicles with front wheel drive. If wheel lift equipment
must be used, please use extreme caution to help avoid damage to the vehicle.
In this case, the vehicle should be towed with the rear wheels on the ground if at all possible.
If it is absolutely necessary to tow the vehicle with the front wheels on the ground, please refer to the towing
information on the previous page.
Sling-type equipment applied at the front will damage radiator and air conditioning lines.
It is equally important not to use sling -type equipment at the rear or apply lifting equipment inside the rear wheels;
serious damage to the rear axle may result.
If the vehicle is being towed on a flat bed truck, the towing eyelets must not be used to secure the vehicle on the flat
bed. Consult the tow truck operator.
ProCarManuals.com

WARNING
Remember that the power brakes and power steering will not function when engine is not running. The braking
and steering systems will function but the brake pedal pressure required is 3 - 5 times above normal and greater
steering effort must be exerted.
The towing eyelets must not be used for pulling the vehicle out of a ditch or for any similar purpose involving
severe strain. Do not use the towing eyelets to pull the vehicle up onto a flat bed tow truck.
153 06 Starting and driving
Jump starting
Follow these instructions to jump start your vehicle's dead battery or to jump start another vehicle's dead battery using
your vehicle. If the 12-volt auxiliary battery to be used is in another vehicle, check that the vehicles are not touching to
prevent premature completion of a circuit. Be sure to follow jump starting instructions provided for the other vehicle.
To jump start your vehicle:
1. Switch off the ignition.
2. First connect the auxiliary battery positive (+) terminal (1) to the positive (+) terminal in your vehicle's battery (2),
marked with a "+" sign.
3. Connect the auxiliary battery's negative (-) terminal (3) to the ground point in your vehicle's engine compartment
near the driver's side spring strut (4).
4. Start the engine in the assisting vehicle, then start the engine in the vehicle with dead battery.
5. After the engine has started, first remove the negative (-) terminal jumper cable. Then remove the positive (+)
terminal jumper cable.
WARNING
PROPOSITION 65 WARNING!
Battery posts, terminals, and related accessories contain lead and lead compounds, chemicals known to the state of
California to cause cancer and reproductive harm. Wash hands after handling.
WARNING
ProCarManuals.com

Do not connect the jumper cable to any part of the fuel system or to any moving parts. Avoid touching hot
manifolds.
Batteries generate hydrogen gas, which is flammable and explosive.
Battery fluid contains sulfuric acid. Do not allow battery fluid to contact eyes, skin, fabrics or painted surfaces. If
contact occurs, flush the affected area immediately with water. Obtain medical help immediately if eyes are affected.
Never expose the battery to open flame or electric spark.
Do not smoke near the battery.
Failure to follow the instructions for jump starting can lead to personal injury.
Do not touch the jumper cables during the attempt to start the vehicle. This could cause sparks.
154 06 Starting and driving
Towing a trailer
General information
Volvo recommends the use of Volvo trailer hitches that are specially designed for the vehicle.
CAUTION
Models equipped with the B5244S7 engine (engine code 39, which is the 6th and 7th digits from the left in your
vehicle's VIN number, see page 249
for the location of the VIN plate), may not be used to tow trailers or vehicles of
any kind. This could cause damage to the vehicle's emission control systems.
Maximum trailer weights recommended by Volvo are:
Trailers without brakes: 1,540 lbs (700 kg).
Trailers with brakes: 2,000 lbs (900 kg) Observe the legal requirements of the state/province in which the vehicles
are registered.
The maximum recommended hitch tongue load is 165 lbs (75 kg).
All Volvo models are equipped with energy-absorbing shock-mounted bumpers. Trailer hitch installation should not
interfere with the proper operation of this bumper system.
Trailer towing does not normally present any particular problems, but take into consideration:
Increase tire pressure to recommended full. See the chapter "Wheels and tires."
When your vehicle is new, avoid towing heavy trailers during the first 620 miles (1,000 km).
Maximum speed when towing a trailer: 50 m.p.h. (80 km/h).
Engine and transmission are subject to increased loads. Therefore, engine coolant temperature should be closely
watched when driving in hot climates or hilly terrain. Use a lower gear and turn off the air conditioner if the
temperature gauge needle enters the red range.
If the automatic transmission begins to overheat, a message will be displayed in the information display.
Avoid overload and other abusive operation.
Hauling a trailer affects handling, durability, and economy.
It is necessary to balance trailer brakes with the towing vehicle brakes to provide a safe stop (check and observe
state/local regulations).
Do not connect the trailer's brake system directly to the vehicle's brake system.
More frequent vehicle maintenance is required.
Remove the ball and drawbar assembly when the hitch is not being used.
Volvo recommends the use of synthetic engine oil when towing a trailer over long distances or in mountainous
areas.
ProCarManuals.com

2 0 0 8
VOLVO S40
198 09 Maintenance and servicing
Volvo maintenance 200
Maintaining your car201
Hood203
Engine compartment204
Engine oil205
Fluids206
Wiper blades208
Battery209
Replacing bulbs211
Fuses220
199 09 Maintenance and servicing
200 09 Maintenance and servicing
Volvo maintenance
General
Volvo advises you to follow the maintenance program outlined in the Warranty and Service Records Information
booklet. This maintenance program contains inspections and services necessary for the proper function of your vehicle.
The maintenance services contain several checks that require special tools and training, and therefore must be
performed by a qualified technician. 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
ProCarManuals.com

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
.
202 09 Maintenance and servicing
Maintaining your car
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 ?
ProCarManuals.com

If your Check Engine (MIL) light is lit - or was lit but went out without service, have your vehicle diagnosed and, if
necessary, serviced by a qualified Volvo technician.
If you recently had service for a lit Check Engine light, or if you had service that required disconnecting the battery,
a period of driving is necessary to bring the OBD II system to "ready" for inspection. A half-hour trip of mixed stop-
and -go/highway driving is typically needed to allow OBD II to reach readiness. Your Volvo retailer can provide you
with more information on planning a trip.
Maintain your vehicle in accordance with your vehicle's maintenance schedule.
203 09 Maintenance and servicing
Hood
Opening the hood
To open the hood:
1. Pull the lever located under the left side of the dash to release the hood lock.
2. Lift the hood slightly.
3. Press up the release control located under the front edge of the hood (at the center) up to the right, and lift the hood.
WARNING
Check that the hood locks engage properly when closed.
204 09 Maintenance and servicing
Engine compartment
ProCarManuals.com