2009 VOLVO XC90 maintenance

06 Starting and driving
Cold weather precautions
06
157
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). See section "Coolant".
•
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.
Your Volvo retailer stocks plenty of Volvo
engine coolant to protect your vehicle dur-
ing cold weather.
•
Try to keep the fuel tank well filled – this
prevents 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 decreas-
ing fuel consumption while the engine is
warming up. For winter use, 5W-30 oil, par-
ticularly the synthetic type
1, is recom-
mended. Be sure to use good quality oil but
do not use cold-weather oil for hard drivingor in warm weather. See section "Engine
oil" for more information.
•
The load placed on the battery is greater
during the winter since the windshield wip-
ers, lighting, etc. are used more often.
Moreover, the capacity of the battery
decreases as the temperature drops. In
very cold weather, a poorly charged bat-
tery can freeze and be damaged. It is there-
fore advisable to check the state of charge
more frequently and spray an antirust oil on
the battery posts.
•
Volvo recommends the use of snow tires
on all four wheels for winter driving – see
section "Wheels and tires."
•
To prevent the washer fluid reservoir
from freezing, add washer solvents con-
taining antifreeze (see page 211 for the
location of the washer fluid reservoir). 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): 1 part washer sol-
vent and 3 parts water
•
Down to 0 ° F (–18 ° C):1 part washer sol-
vent 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.NOTE
Avoid the use of de-icing sprays as they can
cause damage to the locks.W – Winter/Wet driving mode – enhanced
vehicle traction•
Mode W will only function if the gear selec-
tor is in the (D)rive position.
•
Press the button at the base of the gear
selector to engage/disengage this driving
mode.
•
An LED in the button will light up to indicate
that W is engaged and this will also be dis-
played in the instrument panel (see
page 54).
•
This mode may be selected for starting/
moving off on slippery roads.
1Synthetic oil is not used when the oil is changed at the normal maintenance service intervals except at owner request and at additional charge. Please consult your Volvo retailer.

07 Wheels and tiresUniform Tire Quality Grading
07176
ALL PASSENGER VEHICLE TIRES MUST
CONFORM TO FEDERAL SAFETY
REQUIREMENTS IN ADDITION TO THESE
GRADES
Quality grades can be found, where appli-
cable, on the tire sidewall between the tread
shoulder and maximum section width. For
example:
Treadwear 200 Traction AA Temperature ATREADWEARThe treadwear grade is a comparative rating
based on the wear rate of the tire when tested
under controlled conditions on a specified gov-
ernment test course. For example, a tire gra-
ded 150 would wear one and one half (1 1/2)
times as well on the government course as a
tire graded 100. The relative performance of
tires depends upon the actual conditions of
their use, however, and many depart signifi-
cantly from the norm due to variation in driving
habits, maintenance practices and differences
in road characteristics and climate.TRACTIONThe traction grades, from highest to lowest, are
AA, A, B, and C, as measured under controlled
conditions on specified government test sur-
faces of asphalt and concrete. A tire marked C
may have poor traction performance.
WARNING
The traction grade assigned to this tire is
based on braking (straight-ahead) traction
tests and is not a measure of cornering
(turning) traction.TEMPERATUREThe temperature grades are AA (the highest),
A, B, and C, representing the tire's resistance
to the generation of heat and its ability to dis-
sipate heat when tested under controlled con-
ditions on a specified indoor laboratory test
wheel. Sustained high temperature can cause
the material of the tire to degenerate and
reduce tire life, and excessive temperature can
lead to sudden tire failure. The grade C corre-
sponds to a minimum level of performance that
all passenger vehicle tires must meet under the
Federal Motor Safety Standard No. 109.
Grades B and A represent higher levels of per-
formance on the laboratory test wheel than the
minimum required by law.
WARNING
The temperature grade for this tire is estab-
lished for a tire that is properly inflated and
not overloaded. Excessive speed, under-
inflation, or excessive loading, either sepa-
rately or in combination, can cause heat
buildup and tire failure.

07 Wheels and tires
Tire rotation
07
179
G020325
The arrows shows the direction of rotation of the
tireSummer and winter tires•
When switching between summer and
winter tires, mark the tires to indicate
where they were mounted on the car, e.g.,
LF = left front, RR = right rear
•
Tires with tread designed to roll in only one
direction are marked with an arrow on the
sidewall.
•
Incorrectly mounted tires impair the car's
braking properties and ability to force
aside rain, snow and slush.
•
The tires with the most tread should always
be at the rear (to reduce the risk of skid-
ding).
•
Contact a Volvo workshop if you are
unsure about the tread depth.
Tire rotationYour vehicle has no recommended tire rota-
tion. The following information is intended to
help you understand why.Tread setAs a tire ages and the rubber cures, front and
rear tires set at different angles. Therefore, if
tires are rotated, the tread will eventually set at
an angle that is a compromise. Even if ride,
handling, and road noise may still seem
acceptable, they may not be optimal. Further,
tires that are rotated, but not on a regular basis,
may actually cause more tire noise, faster tire
wear, and unpleasant changes in steering feel
and vehicle handling.
A tire that can fully adapt to its position will
provide better steering feel, lower tire noise,
and better fuel economy.Braking stability performanceYour vehicle is driven mainly by the front tires,
which will wear faster. This can be beneficial.
Having more tread on the rear tires will help
reduce oversteer. Oversteer is when a vehicle
wants to keep turning because of momentum
and dynamic forces on its suspension.Suspension wear diagnosticsEvery suspension needs periodic inspection
and maintenance. A tire's wear pattern can bean aid in detecting a suspension problem. Each
tire, if left in place, tells a story about the sus-
pension. Tire rotation, on the other hand, could
make suspension wear harder to detect. Early
detection is very important, because suspen-
sion problems can make tire wear worse.
If you do rotate your tires...Please follow the tire manufacturer's recom-
mendations, as outlined in the tire manufactur-
ers tire warranty pamphlet.
Your Volvo retailer can also provide guidance
based on your particular driving circumstan-
ces.

07 Wheels and tiresTire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) – U.S. models only
07190
The tire pressure monitoring system uses sen-
sors mounted in the tire valves to check infla-
tion pressure levels. When the vehicle is
moving at a speed of approximately 20 mph
(30 km/h) or faster, these sensors transmit
inflation pressure data to a receiver located in
the vehicle.USA – FCC ID: MRXG403MA4
A
This device complies with part 15 of the FCC
rules. Operation is subject to the following
conditions: (1) This device may not cause
harmful interference, and (2) this device
must accept any interference received,
including interference that may cause unde-
sired operation.
When low inflation pressure is detected,
TPMS will light up the tire pressure warning
light (also referred to as a telltale) in the
instrument panel (see page 57), and will dis-
play a message in the text window. The
wording of this message is determined by
the degree of inflation pressure loss.AOn certain models, the FCC code is MRXTG315AM04
NOTE
If a fault occurs in TPMS, the tire pressure
warning light will flash for approximately
1 minute and
TIRE PRESS SYST
SERVICE REQUIRED
will be displayed.
Each tire, including the spare (if provided),
should be checked monthly when cold and
inflated to the inflation pressure recommended
by the vehicle manufacturer on the vehicle
placard or tire inflation pressure label. (If your
vehicle has tires of a different size than the size
indicated on the vehicle placard or tire inflation
pressure label, you should determine the
proper tire inflation pressure for those tires.)
As an added safety feature, your vehicle has
been equipped with a tire pressure monitoring
system (TPMS) that illuminates a low tire pres-
sure telltale when one or more of your tires is
significantly under-inflated. Accordingly, when
the low tire pressure telltale illuminates, you
should stop and check your tires as soon as
possible, and inflate them to the proper pres-
sure. Driving on a significantly under-inflated
tire causes the tire to overheat and can lead to
tire failure. Under-inflation also reduces fuel
efficiency and tire tread life, and may affect the
vehicle's handling and stopping ability.
Please note that the TPMS is not a substitute
for proper tire maintenance, and it is the driv-er's responsibility to maintain correct tire pres-
sure, even if under-inflation has not reached
the level to trigger illumination of the TPMS low
tire pressure telltale.
Your vehicle has also been equipped with a
TPMS malfunction indicator to indicate when
the system is not operating properly. The
TPMS malfunction indicator is combined with
the low tire pressure telltale. When the system
detects a malfunction, the telltale will flash for
approximately one minute and then remain
continuously illuminated. This sequence will
continue upon subsequent vehicle start-ups as
long as the malfunction exists. When the mal-
function indicator is illuminated, the system
may not be able to detect or signal low tire
pressure as intended. TPMS malfunctions may
occur for a variety of reasons, including the
installation of replacement or alternate tires or
wheels on the vehicle that prevent the TPMS
from functioning properly. Always check the
TPMS malfunction telltale after replacing one
or more tires or wheels on your vehicle to
ensure that the replacement or alternate tires
and wheels allow the TPMS to continue to
function properly.

07 Wheels and tires
Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) – U.S. models only
07
191
NOTE
TPMS indicates low tire pressure but does
not replace normal tire maintenance. For
information on correct tire pressure, please
refer to the tables on pages 170 and 171, or
consult your Volvo retailer.Erasing warning messagesWhen a low tire pressure warning message has
been displayed, and the tire pressure warning
light has come on:•
Use a tire pressure gauge to check the
inflation pressure of all four tires.
•
Re-inflate the tire(s) to the correct pressure
(consult the tire pressure placard or the
table see page 170).
•
Drive the vehicle for several minutes at a
speed of 20 mph (30 km/h) or faster.
This will erase the warning text and the warning
light will go out.WARNING
Incorrect inflation pressure could lead to tire
failure, resulting in a loss of control of the
vehicle.
Changing wheels with TPMSPlease note the following when changing or
replacing the factory installed TPMS wheels/
tires on the vehicle:•
Only the factory-mounted wheels are
equipped with TPMS sensors in the valves.
•
If the vehicle is equipped with a temporary
spare tire, this tire does not have a TPMS
sensor.
•
If wheels without TPMS sensors are moun-
ted on the vehicle,
TIRE PRESS SYST
SERVICE REQUIRED
will be displayed
each time the vehicle is driven above
25 mph (40 km/h) for 10 minutes or more.
•
Once TPMS sensors are properly installed,
the warning message should not reappear.
•
Volvo recommends that TPMS sensors be
fitted on all wheels used on the vehicle.
Volvo does not recommend moving sen-
sors back and forth between sets of
wheels.NOTE
If a tire is changed or if the TPMS sensor is
moved to another wheel, the sensor’s seal,
nut and valve core should be replaced.
CAUTION
When inflating tires with TPMS valves, press
the pump's mouthpiece straight onto the
valve to help avoid bending or otherwise
damaging the valve.

09
MAINTENANCE AND SERVICING

09 Maintenance and servicingVolvo service
09202
Maintenance servicePeriodic maintenance will help keep your vehi-
cle running well. Your Warranty and Service
Records Information booklet provides a com-
prehensive maintenance schedule up to
150,000 miles (240,000 km) of vehicle service.
This maintenance program contains inspec-
tions and services necessary for the proper
function of your vehicle, and includes compo-
nents that affect vehicle emissions. The main-
tenance services contain several checks that
require special instruments and tools and
therefore must be performed by a qualified
technician. Volvo advises you to follow the
service program outlined in this booklet. 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 the "Warranty and Service Records
Information booklet," are not covered by the
warranty. You will be required to pay for labor
and material used.
Maintenance servicesYour Volvo passed several major inspections
before it was delivered to you, in accordance
with Volvo specifications. The maintenance
services outlined in the Warranty and Service
Records Information booklet, many of which
will positively affect your vehicle's emissions,
should be performed as indicated. It is recom-
mended that receipts for vehicle emission
services be retained in case questions arise
concerning maintenance.
Inspection and service should also be per-
formed anytime a malfunction is observed or
suspected.Vehicle Event Data (Black Box)Your vehicle's driving and safety systems
employ computers that monitor, and share
with each other, information about your vehi-
cle's operation. One or more of these comput-
ers may store what they monitor, either during
normal vehicle operation or in a crash or near-
crash event. Stored information may be read
and used by:•
Volvo Car Corporation
•
service and repair facilities
•
law enforcement or government agencies
•
others who may assert a legal right to
know, or who obtain your consent to know
such information.
Applicable warrantiesIn accordance with applicable U.S. and Cana-
dian regulations, the following list of warranties
is provided.•
New Car Limited Warranty
•
Parts and Accessories Limited Warranty
•
Corrosion Protection Limited Warranty
•
Seat Belt and Supplemental Restraint Sys-
tems Limited Warranty
•
Emission Design and Defect Warranty
•
Emission Performance Warranty
These are the Federal warranties; other war-
ranties are provided as required by state/pro-
vincial law. Refer to your separate Warranty
and Service Records Information booklet for
detailed information concerning each of the
warranties.

09 Maintenance and servicing
Maintaining your vehicle
09``203 Owner maintenance
Periodic maintenance requirements and inter-
vals are described in your vehicle's Warranty
and Service Records Information booklet.
The following points can be carried out
between the normally scheduled maintenance
services.Each time the vehicle is refueled•
Check the engine oil level
•
Clean the windshield, windshield wipers,
headlights, and tail lights
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 cor-
rosion. Corrosion may indicate a loose ter-
minal 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 vehicle, including the undercar-
riage, 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.
•
Complete service information for qualified
technicians is available online for purchase
or subscription at www.volvote-
chinfo.com.
Emission inspection readinessWhat is an Onboard Diagnostic System
(OBD II)?OBD II is part of your vehicle's computerized
engine management system. It stores diagnos-
tic 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 ofinspection has replaced the tailpipe emission
test.
How can my vehicle fail OBD II emission
inspection?Your vehicle can fail OBD II emission inspec-
tion 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 dis-
connecting 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?•
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/high-