2009 VOLVO S60 tow

06 Starting and drivingAutomatic transmission (option)
06
133
The currently selected gear will be displayed in
the instrument panel (see page 50).•
To access the MAN shifting position from
D, move the gear selector to the left to
MAN.
•
To return to the D position from MAN,
move the gear selector to the right.
While drivingIf you select the MAN position while driving, the
gear that was being used in the D position will
also initially be selected in MAN position.•
Move the gear selector forward (toward
"+") to shift to a higher gear or rearward
(toward "–") to shift to a lower gear.
•
If you hold the gear selector toward "–", the
transmission will downshift one gear and
will utilize the braking power of the engine.
If the current speed is too high for using a
lower gear, the downshift will not occur
until the speed has decreased enough to
allow the lower gear to be used.
•
If you slow down to a very low speed, the
transmission will automatically shift down.
•
When starting in the MAN position, 3rd
gear is the highest gear that may be
selected.
NOTE
Kickdown does not function when the trans-
mission is in the manual shift (Geartronic)
mode.The gear selector must be in the D
position.KickdownAutomatic shift to a lower gear (kickdown) is
achieved by depressing the accelerator pedal
fully and briskly. An upshift will occur when
approaching the top speed for a particular gear
or by releasing the accelerator pedal slightly.
Kickdown can be used for maximum acceler-
ation or when passing at highway speeds.
Kickdown does not function when the trans-
mission is in the manual shift (Geartronic)
mode.W - Winter/Wet driving mode -
enhanced vehicle tractionPlease refer to the information on page 131.

06 Starting and driving
Brake system
06``135 BRAKE Brake circuit malfunction
The brake system is a hydraulic system con-
sisting of two master cylinders and two sepa-
rate brake circuits. If a problem should occur in
one of these circuits, it is still possible to stop
the vehicle with the other brake circuit.
If the brake pedal must be depressed farther
than normal and requires greater foot pressure,
the stopping distance will be longer.
A warning light in the instrument panel will light
up to warn the driver that a fault has occurred.
If this light comes on while driving or braking,
stop immediately and check the brake fluid
level in the reservoir.
NOTE
Press the brake pedal hard and maintain
pressure on the pedal – do not pump the
brakes.
WARNING
If the fluid level is below the MIN mark in the
reservoir or if a
Brake failure – Service
urgent
message is displayed in the text
window:DO NOT DRIVE
. Have the vehicle
towed to a trained and qualified Volvo serv-
ice technician and have the brake system
inspected.
NOTE
When the vehicle is at a standstill and the
engine is idling, e.g. at a traffic light and the
brake pedal is depressed, the pedal may go
down slightly. This is a normal function of
the power-assisted brake system.Power brakes function only when the
engine is runningThe power brakes utilize vacuum pressure
which is only created when the engine is run-
ning. Never let the vehicle roll to a stop with the
engine switched off.
If the power brakes are not working, the brake
pedal must be pressed approximately four
times harder than usual to make up for the lack
of power assistance. This can happen for
example when towing your vehicle or if the
engine is switched off when the vehicle is roll-
ing. The brake pedal feels harder than usual.
Water on brake discs and brake pads
affects brakingDriving in rain and slush or passing through an
automatic car wash can cause water to collect
on the brake discs and pads. This will cause a
delay in braking effect when the pedal is
depressed. To avoid such a delay when the
brakes are needed, depress the pedal occa-
sionally when driving through rain, slush etc.
This will remove the water from the brakes.
Check that brake application feels normal. This
should also be done after washing or starting
in very damp or cold weather.Severe strain on the brake systemThe brakes will be subject to severe strain
when driving in mountains or hilly areas or tow-
ing. Vehicle speed is usually slower, which
means that the cooling of the brakes is less
efficient than when driving on level roads. To
reduce the strain on the brakes, shift into a
lower gear and let the engine help with the
braking. Do not forget that, if you are towing a
trailer, the brakes will be subjected to a greater
than normal load.

06 Starting and drivingBrake system
06136
Anti-lock brakes (ABS)
If the warning lamp lights up there
is a malfunction of the ABS system
(the standard braking system will
however function) and the vehicle
should be driven cautiously to a
trained and qualified Volvo service technician
for inspection. The Anti-lock Braking System
(ABS) helps to improve vehicle control (stop-
ping and steering) during severe braking con-
ditions by limiting brake lockup. When the
system "senses" impending lockup, braking
pressure is automatically modulated in order to
help prevent lockup, which could lead to a skid.
The system performs a self-diagnostic test
when the engine is started and when the
vehicle first reaches a speed of approxi-
mately 12 mph (20 km/h). The brake pedal will
pulsate several times and a sound may be
audible from the ABS control module. This is
normal.
To obtain optimal effect from the ABS system,
constant pressure should be kept on the brake
pedal. Do not pump the brake pedal.
The switching of the ABS modulator will be
audible and the brake pedal will pulsate during
braking. Please be aware that ABS does not
increase the absolute braking potential of the
vehicle. While control will be enhanced, ABSwill not shorten stopping distances on slippery
surfaces.
ABS with EBD (Electronic Brake Force
Distribution)EBD is an integrated part of the ABS system.
EBD regulates the hydraulic pressure to the
rear brakes to help provide optimal braking
capacity. The brake pedal will pulsate during
braking, which is normal.
If the BRAKEandABS warning lights come on
at the same time, this could indicate a fault in
the brake system.
1. Stop the vehicle in a suitable place and
switch off the engine.
2. Restart the engine.
3. If both warning lights go off, no further
action is required.
WARNING
If the fluid level is below the MIN mark in the
reservoir or if a "
Brake failure - Service
urgent
" message is displayed in the text
window:DO NOT DRIVE
. Have the vehicle
towed to a trained and qualified Volvo serv-
ice technician and have the brake system
inspected.
4. If both lights are still on after the engine has
been restarted, switch off the engine again
and check the brake fluid level (see
page 193 for the location of the brake fluid
reservoir).
5.
If the brake fluid level is above the MIN
mark, drive carefully to a trained and quali-
fied Volvo service technician and have the
brake system inspected.Emergency Brake Assistance (EBA)The EBA function is designed to provide full
brake effect immediately in the event of sud-
den, hard braking. The system is activated by
the speed with which you depress the brake
pedal.

06 Starting and drivingTowing
06140
Emergency towing
ABC
G028091
Front towing eyeletThe 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 (B, see illustrations).
WARNING
Do not use the towing eyelets to pull the
vehicle up onto a flat bed tow truck.
To attach the towing eyelet:A. Use a coin to pry open the lower edge of
the cover (A)
1.
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.A
B
C
G028093
Rear towing eyelet
Precautions when the vehicle is in tow•
The steering wheel must be unlocked. Turn
the ignition key to position I or II.
•
The gear selector must be in position N.
•
Maximum speed: 50 mph (80 km/h). Do not
exceed the maximum allowable towing
speed.
•
Maximum distance with front wheels on
ground: 50 miles (80 km).
•
While the vehicle is being towed, try to
keep the tow rope taut at all times.
•
The vehicle should only be towed in for-
ward direction.
1The opening in the cover may vary.

06 Starting and driving
Towing
06
141
CAUTION
•
Please check with state and local
authorities before attempting this type
of towing, as vehicles being towed are
subject to regulations regarding maxi-
mum towing speed, length and type of
towing device, lighting, etc.
•
If the vehicle's battery is dead, do not
attempt to start the vehicle by pushing
or pulling it as this will damage the
three-way catalytic converter(s). The
engine must be jump started using an
auxiliary battery (see page 142).
•
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.
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 – 4 times above normal and greater
steering effort must be exerted.
•
The towing eyelets must not be used for
pulling another 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.
Towing vehicles with front wheel drive/
All Wheel DriveVolvo recommends the use of flat bed equip-
ment.
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.
CAUTION
•
Sling-type equipment applied at the
front will damage radiator and air con-
ditioning lines.
•
It is equally important not to use sling-
type equipment at the rear or apply lift-
ing 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.WARNING
Do not use the towing eyelets to pull the
vehicle up onto a flat bed tow truck.

06 Starting and driving
Towing a trailer
06``143
Volvo recommends the use of Volvo trailer
hitches that are specially designed for the vehi-
cle.•
Maximum trailer weight recommended by
Volvo is: Trailers without brakes: 1650 lbs
(750 kg) Trailers with brakes: 2" (50 mm)
ball - 3300 lbs* (1500 kg), 1 7/8 " (47 mm)
ball - 2000 lbs (900 kg). Observe the legal
requirements of the state/province in
which the vehicles are
•
All Volvo models are equipped with
energy-absorbing shock-mounted bump-
ers. 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 considera-
tion:
•
Increase tire pressure to recommended
full. See section "Wheels and tires."
•
When your vehicle is new, avoid towing
heavy trailers during the first 620 miles
(1000 km).
•
Recommended hitch tongue load is: Trailer
weightsbelow 2,650 lbs (1,200 kg) -
110 lbs (50 kg) Trailer weights above
2,650 lbs (1,200 kg) - 165 lbs (75 kg)
•
Maximum speed when towing a trailer:
50 mph (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 con-
ditioner if the temperature gauge needle
enters the red range.
•
If the automatic transmission begins to
overheat, a message will be displayed in
the text window.
•
Avoid overload and other abusive opera-
tion.
•
Hauling a trailer affects handling, durabil-
ity, 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.
WARNING
•
Bumper-attached trailer hitches must
not be used on Volvos, nor should
safety chains be attached to the
bumper.
•
Trailer hitches attaching to the vehicle
rear axle must not be used.
•
Never connect a trailer's hydraulic
brake system directly to the vehicle
brake system, nor a trailer's lighting
system directly to the vehicle lighting
system. Consult your nearest trained
and qualified Volvo service technician
for correct installation.
•
When towing a trailer, the trailer's safety
wire must be correctly fastened to the
hole or hook provided in the trailer hitch
on the vehicle. The safety wire should
never be fastened to or wound around
the drawbar ball.NOTE
When parking the vehicle with a trailer on a
hill, apply the parking brake before putting
the gear selector in P (first/reverse gear on
manual transmissions). Always follow the
trailer manufacturer's recommendations for
wheel chocking.

06 Starting and drivingTowing a trailer
06144
•
When starting on a hill, put the gear selec-
tor in D before releasing the parking brake.
•
If you use the manual (Geartronic) shift
positions while towing a trailer, make sure
the gear you select does not put too much
strain on the engine (using too high a gear).
•
The drawbar assembly/trailer hitch may be
rated for trailers heavier than the vehicle is
designed to tow. Please adhere to Volvo's
recommended trailer weights.
LevelingIf your vehicle is equipped with automatic lev-
eling, the rear suspension always retains the
correct ride height regardless of the load.
When the vehicle is stationary, the rear sus-
pension lowers, which is normal.

06 Starting and drivingFront/rear park assist (option/accessory)
06150
Front/rear park assist
G020294
Front/rear park assistThe park assist system is designed to assist
you when driving into parking spaces, garages,
etc. It utilizes four ultrasound sensors located
in one or both bumpers to measure the dis-
tance to a vehicle, object, or a person who may
be close to the front or rear of your vehicle.
Park assist is available in two versions:•
Rear bumper only
•
Front and rear bumpers
WARNING
Park Assist is an information system, NOT a
safety system. This system is designed to
be a supplementary aid when parking the
vehicle. It is not, however, intended to
replace the driver's attention and judge-
ment.FunctionThe system is activated automatically when the
vehicle is started. The indicator light in the but-
ton in the center console illuminates.•
The front park assist system is active from
the time the engine is started until the vehi-
cle exceeds a speed of approximately
10 mph (15 km/h). It is also active when the
vehicle is backing up.
•
Rear park assist is active when the engine
is running and reverse gear has been
selected.
Rear park assistThe distance monitored behind the vehicle is
approximately 5 ft (1.5 m). The signal comes
from the rear speakers.
The system must be deactivated when towing
a trailer, carrying bicycles in a rearmounted
carrier, etc, which could trigger the rear park
assist system's sensors.
NOTE
Rear park assist is deactivated automati-
cally when towing a trailer if Volvo genuine
trailer wiring is used.Front park assistThe distance monitored in front of the vehicle
is approximately 2.5 ft (0.8 m). The audible sig-
nal 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 sen-
sors.
Activating/deactivating park assistThe system is activated automatically when the
vehicle is started.•
Press the Park assist button on the center
console (see page 57) to temporarily deac-
tivate the system(s). The indicator light in
the button will go out when the system has
been deactivated.
•
Park assist will be automatically reactiva-
ted the next time the engine is started, or if
the button is pressed (the indicator light in
the button will illuminate).