Never switch off the ignition (turn the ignition key to position 0) or remove the key from the ignition switch while
the vehicle is in motion. This could cause the steering wheel to lock, which would make the vehicle impossible to
steer.
129 06 Starting and driving
Economical driving
Economical driving conserves natural resources
Better driving economy may be obtained by thinking ahead, avoiding rapid starts and stops and adjusting the speed of
your vehicle to immediate traffic conditions. Observe the following rules:
Bring the engine to normal operating temperature as soon as possible by driving with a light foot on the accelerator
pedal for the first few minutes of operation. A cold engine uses more fuel and is subject to increased wear.
Whenever possible, avoid using the vehicle for driving short distances. This does not allow the engine to reach
normal operating temperature.
Drive carefully and avoid rapid acceleration and hard braking.
Do not exceed posted speed limits.
Avoid carrying unnecessary items (extra load) in the vehicle.
Maintain correct tire pressure. Check tire pressure regularly (when tires are cold).
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).
130 06 Starting and driving
Handling and road holding
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The upper section describes the oil's performance level.
The center identifies the oil's viscosity.
The lower section indicates whether the oil has demonstrated energy-conserving properties in a standard test in
comparison to a reference oil.
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 50
) 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 a trained and qualified Volvo service technician for more information.
Changing engine oil and oil filter
See the previous page for oil specifications and page 246
for oil volumes. Refer to the Warranty and Service Records
Information booklet for information on the oil change intervals.
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 a trained and qualified Volvo service technician.
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 vehicle 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.
Checking the oil
1. Pull out the dipstick and wipe it with a lint-free rag.
2. Reinsert the dipstick, pull it out, and check the oil level.
3. Add oil if necessary. If the level is close to the MIN mark, add approximately 1 US quart (1 liter) of oil.
4. Run the engine until it reaches normal operating temperature.
5. Switch off the engine and wait for at least 10-15 minutes and recheck the oil level. If necessary, add oil until the level
is near the mark.
194 09 Maintenance and servicing
Engine oil
CAUTION
Not checking the oil level regularly can result in serious engine damage if the oil level becomes too low.
Never fill oil above the MAX mark. This could cause an increase in oil consumption.
Not checking the oil level regularly can result in serious engine damage if the oil level becomes too low.
Always add oil of the same type and viscosity as already used.
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