2008 VOLVO V70 warning lights

A malfunction indicator (CHECK ENGINE) light may have many causes. Sometimes, you may not notice a change in
your car's behavior. Even so, an uncorrected condition could hurt fuel economy, emission controls, and drivability.
Extended driving without correcting the cause could even damage other components in your vehicle.
Canadian models are equipped with this symbol:
Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) warning light
If the warning light comes on, there may be a malfunction in the ABS system (the standard braking system will still
function). Check the system by:
1. Stopping in a safe place and switching off the ignition.
76 03 Your driving environment
Instruments and controls
2. Restart the engine.
3. If the warning light goes off, no further action is required.
If the warning light remains on, the vehicle should be driven to a trained and qualified Volvo service technician for
inspection. See page 115
for additional information.
Canadian models are equipped with this symbol:
Rear fog light
This symbol indicates that the rear fog light (located in the driver's side tail light cluster) is on.
Stability system
This indicator symbol flashes when the DSTC (Dynamic Stability and Traction Control system) is actively working to
stabilize the vehicle. See page 153
for more detailed information.
Tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) - option
This symbol illuminates to indicate that tire pressure in one or more tires is low. See page 252
for detailed information.
Low fuel level
When this light comes on, there are approximately 2.1 US gallons (8 liters) of fuel remaining in the tank.
Information symbol
The information symbol illuminates and a text message is displayed if a fault is detected in one of the vehicle's
systems. The message can be erased and the symbol can be turned off by pressing the READ button (see page 126
for
information) or this will take place automatically after a short time (the length of time varies, depending on the
function affected).
The information symbol may also illuminate together with other symbols.
High beam indicator
This symbol illuminates when the high beam headlights are on, or if the high beam flash function is used.
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If this light comes on while the vehicle is being driven, or remains on for longer than approximately 10 seconds after
the vehicle has been started, the SRS system's diagnostic functions have detected a fault in a seat belt lock or
pretensioner, a front airbag, side impact airbag, and/or an inflatable curtain. Have the system(s) inspected by a trained
and qualified Volvo service technician as soon as possible.
Seat belt reminder
This symbol comes on for approximately 6 seconds if the driver has not fastened his or her seat belt.
Generator not charging
This symbol comes on during driving if a fault has occurred in the electrical system. Contact an authorized Volvo
workshop.
Engine temperature
Engine overheating can result from low oil or coolant levels, towing or hard driving at high heat and altitude, or
mechanical malfunction. Engine overheating will be signaled with text and a red warning triangle in the middle of the
instrument display. The exact text will depend on the degree of overheating. It may range from " HIGH ENGINE
TEMP - SLOW DOWN " to "HIGH ENGINE TEMP - STOP ENGINE ." If appropriate, other messages, such as
" COOLANT LEVEL LOW " will also be displayed. If your engine does overheat so that you must stop the engine,
always allow the engine to cool before attempting to check oil and coolant levels.
Fault in brake system
If this symbol lights, the brake fluid level may be too low. Stop the vehicle in a safe place and check the level in the
brake fluid reservoir, see page 223
. If the level in the reservoir is below MIN , the vehicle should be transported to an
authorized Volvo workshop to have the brake system checked.
If the brake and ABS symbols come on at the same time, there may be a fault in the brake force distribution system.
1. Stop the vehicle in a safe place and turn off the engine.
2. Restart the engine.
If both symbols extinguish, continue driving.
If the symbols remain on, check the level in the brake fluid reservoir. See page 223. If the brake fluid level is
normal but the symbols are still lit, the vehicle can be driven, with great care, to an authorized Volvo workshop to
have the brake system checked.
If the level in the reservoir is below MIN , the vehicle should be transported to an authorized Volvo workshop to
have the brake system checked.
WARNING
If the fluid level is below the MIN mark in the reservoir or if a warning message is displayed in the text window:
DO NOT DRIVE. Have the vehicle towed to an authorized Volvo retailer and have the brake system inspected.
If the ABS and Brake system lights are on at the same time, there is a risk of reduced vehicle stability.
78 03 Your driving environment
Instruments and controls
Warning symbol
The red warning symbol comes on when a fault has been indicated which could affect the safety and/or drivability of
the vehicle. An explanatory text is shown on the information display at the same time. The symbol remains visible
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Press the button to switch the rear fog light on/off. The rear fog light indicator symbol on the instrument panel
and the light in the button come on when the rear fog light is switched on.
NOTE
The rear fog light is considerably brighter than the normal tail lights and should be used only when conditions such
as fog, rain, snow, smoke or dust reduce visibility for other vehicles to less than 500 ft. (150 meters).
Hazard warning flashers
The hazard warning flasher should be used to indicate that the vehicle has become a traffic hazard. To activate the
flashers, press the button in the center dash. Press the button again to turn off the flashers.
NOTE
Regulations regarding the use of the hazard warning flasher may vary, depending on where you live.
The hazard warning flashers will be activated automatically if an airbag deploys.
93 03 Your driving environment
Lighting
Turn signals
When changing lanes
The driver can automatically flash the turn signals 3 times by moving the turn signal lever up or down to the first
position and releasing it.
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Rear park assist is deactivated automatically when towing a trailer if Volvo genuine trailer wiring is used.
180 04 Comfort and driving pleasure
Park assist (option)
Front park assist
The distance monitored in front of the vehicle is approximately 2.5 ft (0.8 m). The audible signal comes from the audio
system's front speakers.
It may not be possible to combine auxiliary headlights and front park assist since these lights could trigger the system's
sensors.
Faults in the system
If the information symbol illuminates and Park Assist syst Service required is shown on the information display, this
indicates that the system is not functioning properly and has been disengaged. Consult a trained and qualified Volvo
service technician.
CAUTION
In certain circumstances, the park assist system may give unexpected warning signals that can be caused by external
sound sources that use the same ultrasound frequencies as the system. This may include such things as the horns of
other vehicles, wet tires on asphalt, pneumatic brakes, motorcycle exhaust pipes, etc. This does not indicate a fault in
the system.
Cleaning the sensors
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BLIS camera
Indicator light
BLIS symbol
The Blind Spot Information System (BLIS) is an information system that indicates the presence of another vehicle
moving in the same direction as your vehicle in the sideview mirror's "blind area."
CAUTION
The BLIS system should only be repaired by a trained and qualified Volvo service technician.
WARNING
BLIS is an information system, NOT a warning or safety system.
BLIS does not eliminate the need for you to visually confirm the conditions around you, and the need for you to
turn your head and shoulders to make sure that you can safely change lanes.
As the driver, you have full responsibility for changing lanes in a safe manner.
The system is based on digital camera technology. The cameras are located beneath the side-view mirrors.
When one (or both) of the cameras have detected a vehicle in the blind area (up to approximately 10 ft. (3 meters)
from the side of your vehicle, and up to approximately 31 ft. (9.5 meters) behind the side-view mirror), see the
illustration, the indicator light in the door panel illuminates. The light will glow continuously to alert the driver of the
vehicle in the blind area.
NOTE
The door panel indicator light illuminates on the side of the vehicle where the system has detected another vehicle. If
your vehicle is passed on both sides at the same time, both lights will illuminate.
BLIS has an integrated function that alerts the driver if a fault should occur with the system. For example, if one or
both of the system's cameras are obscured, a message (see the table on page 185
) will appear in the information
display in the instrument panel. If this occurs, clean the camera lenses. If necessary, the system can be temporarily
switched off (for instructions, see page 185
).
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183 04 Comfort and driving pleasure
Blind Spot Information System (option)
When does BLIS function
The system functions when your vehicle is moving at speeds above 6 mph (10 km/h).
When you pass another vehicle:
The system reacts when you pass another vehicle at a speed of up to 6 mph (10 km/h) faster than that vehicle.
When you are passed by another vehicle:
The system reacts if your vehicle is passed by another vehicle at a speed of up to 43 mph (70 km/h) faster than your
vehicle.
WARNING
BLIS does not function in sharp curves.
BLIS does not function when your vehicle is backing up.
If you are towing a wide trailer, this may prevent the BLIS cameras from detecting other vehicles in adjacent
lanes.
How BLIS functions in daylight and darkness
Daylight
BLIS reacts to the shape of surrounding vehicles. The system is designed to help detect motor vehicles such as cars,
trucks, buses, motorcycles, etc.
Darkness
BLIS reacts to the headlights of surrounding vehicles. In order to be detected by BLIS, a vehicle in the blind area
must have its headlights on. This means, for example, that the system will not detect a trailer without headlights that is
being towed behind a car or truck.
WARNING
BLIS does not react to cyclists or mopeds.
BLIS does not react to vehicles that are standing still.
The function of the BLIS cameras may be affected by intense light, or when driving at night in areas where there
are no external sources of light (e.g., street lights, other vehicles, etc.). In such cases, the system may react as if the
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Water or mud can make the brake linings slippery, resulting in delayed braking effect.
CAUTION
Engine damage will occur if water is drawn into the air cleaner.
If the vehicle is driven through water deeper than 9 in (25 cm), water may enter the differential and the
transmission. This reduces the oil's lubricating capacity and may shorten the service life of these components.
Do not allow the vehicle to stand in water up to the door sills longer than absolutely necessary. This could result
in electrical malfunctions.
If the engine has been stopped while the vehicle is in water, do not attempt to restart it. Have the vehicle towed
out of the water.
Engine and cooling system
Under special conditions, for example when driving in hilly terrain, extreme heat or with heavy loads, there is a risk
that the engine and cooling system will overheat. Proceed as follows to avoid overheating the engine.
Maintain a low speed when driving with a trailer up long, steep hills.
Do not turn the engine off immediately when stopping after a hard drive.
WARNING
The cooling fan may start or continue to operate (for up to 6 minutes) after the engine has been switched off.
Remove any auxiliary lights from in front of the grille when driving in hot weather conditions.
Do not exceed engine speeds of 4500 rpm if driving with a trailer in hilly terrain. The oil temperature could become
too high.
Conserving electrical current
Keep the following in mind to help minimize battery drain:
When the engine is not running, avoid using ignition mode II . Many electrical systems (the audio system, the
optional navigation system, power windows, etc) will function in ignition modes 0 and I . These modes reduce 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.
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Driving recommendations
Before a long distance trip
It is always worthwhile to have your vehicle checked by a trained and qualified Volvo service technician 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 checked.
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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 a trained and qualified Volvo service
technician only.
Check all lights, including high beams.
Reflective warning triangles are legally required in some states/provinces.
Have a word with a trained and qualified Volvo service technician 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.
Cold weather precautions
If you wish to check your vehicle before the approach of cold weather, the following advice is worth noting:
Make sure that the engine coolant contains 50 percent antifreeze. Any other mixture will reduce freeze protection.
This gives protection against freezing down to - 31°F (-35°C). The use of "recycled" antifreeze is not approved by
Volvo. Different types of antifreeze must not be mixed.
Volvo recommends using only genuine Volvo antifreeze in your vehicle's radiator.
Try to keep the fuel tank well filled - this helps prevent the formation of condensation in the tank. In addition, in
extremely cold weather conditions it is worthwhile to add fuel line de -icer before refueling.
The viscosity of the engine oil is important. Oil with low viscosity (thinner oil) improves cold-weather starting as
well as decreasing fuel consumption while the engine is warming up. For winter use, 5W -30 oil, particularly the
synthetic type, is recommended. Be sure to use good quality oil but do not use cold-weather oil for hard driving or in
warm weather. See page 276
for more information on engine oil.
NOTE
Synthetic oil is not used when the oil is changed at the normal maintenance intervals except at owner request and at
additional charge.
The load placed on the battery is greater during the winter since the windshield wipers, lighting, etc. are used more
often. Moreover, the capacity of the battery decreases as the temperature drops. In very cold weather, a poorly charged
battery can freeze and be damaged. It is therefore advisable to check the state of charge more frequently and spray an
anti-rust oil on the battery posts.
Volvo recommends the use of snow tires on all four wheels for winter driving. See the information on page 259.
To prevent the washer fluid reservoir from freezing, add washer solvents containing antifreeze. 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):
195 05 During your trip
Driving recommendations
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.
Avoid using de -icing sprays as they can cause damage to the locks.
196 05 During your trip
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