2012 VOLVO XC90 engine

04 Interior
Rear seats
04
110
3. Pull the handle (1) outward to release the
backrest. The backrests are designed to
lock at a 45 degree angle. Pull the handle
again to continue pressing it down until it
locks in the horizontal position.
To return the backrests to the upright position,
pull handle 1 and pull the backrest up.
G027016
Folding the backrests—third row of
seats
Folding down the backrest
If necessary, fold in the load anchorage eyelets
before folding down the backrests.1. Move the seats in the second row as far
forward as possible, see page 108.
2. Pull up the handle, illustration 1 above.
3. Push the seat cushion firmly rearward,
under the backrest.
4.
Fold down the backrests
2 (the head
restraints fold down automatically) to the
horizontal position.
WARNING
The seats in the third row are not equipped
with top tether anchors or ISOFIX/LATCH
lower child seat anchors. Child restraint sys-
tems should never be used on these seats.
Returning the backrest to the upright
position
1. Fold up the backrest to the upright posi-
tion.
2. Grasp the strap (see illustration 3 above)
and pull the seat cushion out until it locks
in place. This also locks the backrest in the
upright position.
WARNING
•When one or more sections of the back-
rest is returned to the upright position,
check that it is properly locked in place
by pushing and pulling it. The red indi-
cators should also not be visible.
•Return the outboard head restraints to
the upright position.
•Long loads should always be securely
anchored to help avoid injury in the
event of a sudden stop.
•Always turn the engine off and apply the
parking brake when loading/unloading
the vehicle.
•Place the transmission in the Park (P)
position to help prevent inadvertent
movement of the gear selector.
•On hot days, the temperature in the
vehicle interior can rise very quickly.
Exposure of people to these high tem-
peratures for even a short period of time
can cause heat-related injury or death.
Small children are particularly at risk.
2Please note that the head restraints in this row cannot be vertically adjusted.

04 Interior
Interior lighting
04

111 Reading lights and courtesy light
G026960
Driver's side front reading lamp
Courtesy lights
Passenger's side front reading lamp The
reading lights can be switched on or off by
pressing buttons 1 or 3. The courtesy light-
ing (including footwell lighting) can be
turned on or off by pressing button 2. This
also activates the automatic function.
G027153
Rear reading lights
Driver's side rear reading light
Passenger's side rear reading light The
rear reading lights can be switched on and
off by pressing buttons (4) or (5).
Automatic functionThe reading lights and courtesy lights will
switch off automatically approximately
10 minutes after the engine has been turned
off. The lights can be turned off sooner by
pressing the respective buttons.The courtesy lights come on automatically
1
and remain on for approximately 30 seconds
when:
•The vehicle has been unlocked from the
outside with the remote key or key
•If the engine has been switched off and the
ignition key has been turned to position 0
The courtesy lights will come on and remain on
for approximately 10 minutes when:
•One of the doors is opened (assuming the
courtesy lighting has not previously been
switched off)
The courtesy lighting will go off when:
•The engine is started
•The vehicle is locked from the outside with
the remote key or key blade.
The automatic function can be disconnected
by pressing button (2) for more than 3 seconds.
Briefly pressing the button again automatically
reconnects the function.
The courtesy light timer periods can be
changed. Contact a trained and qualified Volvo
service technician.
1This function is light dependent and is only activated in dark conditions.

04 Interior
Storage compartments
04
* Option/accessory, for more information, see Introduction.117 Refrigerator*
G027068
The refrigerator is located under the cover in
the front seat center armrest. Use the button
(see the inset illustration) to adjust the level of
cooling.
The refrigerator functions when the engine is
running or when the ignition is in position II.
WARNING
Bottles kept in the refrigerator should be
firmly sealed and the cover over the refrig-
erator must be securely closed while the
vehicle is in motion.

05 Locks and alarm
Remote keys and key blades
05
124
Key blades
G030177
Your vehicle is equipped with two coded
remote key transmitters with integrated ignition
key blades called Key Integrated Remote (KIR).
To unlock/lock the vehicle using the key blade:
•Insert the key blade in the driver's door lock
and turn it once to unlock the driver's door
only.
•Turn the key blade again (within 10 sec-
onds) to unlock all doors and the tailgate.
•Turn the key blade once in the opposite
direction to lock all doors and the tailgate.
Use the switch on the driver's door armrest to
lock/unlock the vehicle from the inside.
WARNING
If the doors are locked while driving, this
may hinder rapid access to the occupants
of the vehicle in the event of an accident.
(Also see information on "Child safety
locks".)
NOTE
To help prevent accidentally locking the
keys in the vehicle, the central locking sys-
tem is designed to unlock the doors imme-
diately if the key is left in the ignition switch,
the vehicle is locked using the lock button
on the door and the door is then closed. A
sound from the lock will be audible at this
time.
Please note that this function will not unlock
the doors if the engine is running.
Immobilizer (start inhibitor)Each of the keys supplied with your vehicle
contains a coded transmitter. The code in the
key is transmitted to an antenna in the ignition
switch where it is compared to the code stored
in the start inhibitor module. The vehicle will
start only with a properly coded key.
Each key has a unique code, which your Volvo
retailer uses if new keys are required. A maxi-
mum of six remote keys can be programmed
and used for one vehicle.If you misplace a key, take the other keys to an
authorized Volvo retailer for reprogramming as
an antitheft measure.
If two of the keys to your vehicle are close
together, e.g., on the same key ring, when you
try to start the vehicle, this could cause inter-
ference in the immobilizer system and result in
the vehicle not starting. If this should occur,
remove one of the keys from the key ring before
trying to start the vehicle again.
NOTE
This device complies with part 15 of the
FCC rules. Operation is subject to the fol-
lowing condition: (1) This device may not
cause harmful interference, and (2) this
device must accept any interference
received, including interference that may
cause undesired operation.

05 Locks and alarm
Remote keys and key blades
05
126
Tailgate unlock
Press this button to unlock the tailgate (without
unlocking the other doors). This function will
not open the tailgate.
Panic function
For more information on this function, see
page 131.
Approach lighting
Press this button when approaching the vehi-
cle at night to light up the interior courtesy light,
parking lights, license plate lights and the lights
in the door mirrors.
Lock
Press once to lock all doors, and the tailgate.
Fold key blade in/out
Press to extend the key blade. This button
must also be pressed when the key blade is
folded back into the slot in the side of the
remote key unit.
NOTE
•If an airbag deploys, your vehicle's SRS
control module will attempt to automat-
ically unlock all doors.
•The key blade may also be used to lock
and unlock the doors, and to activate
and deactivate the alarm system.
•To avoid leaving your keys in the vehi-
cle, make a habit of always locking the
vehicle with the remote key.
•If the key blade section of the remote is
not fully folded out when starting the
vehicle, the immobilizer function may
make it impossible to start the engine.
•The vehicle can be locked even if a door
is open. When the door(s) are closed,
they will be locked. Please be aware
that the keys could be locked in the car
when this is done.
Automatic re-lockingIf the doors are unlocked, the locks will auto-
matically reengage (re-lock) and the alarm will
rearm after 2 minutes unless a door or the tail-
gate has been opened. This helps prevent the
car from inadvertently being left unlocked.
FCC ID: LQNP2T-APU
This device complies with part 15 of the FCC
rules. Operation is subject to the following con-ditions: (1) This device may not cause harmful
interference, and (2) this device must accept
any interference received, including interfer-
ence that may cause undesired operation.
Canadian 2306104388
Model 504 2927 by Donnelly
Operation is subject to the following condi-
tions: (1) this device may not cause interfer-
ence, and (2) this device must accept any inter-
ference, including interference that may cause
undesired operation of the device.
Canadian 2306104388A
Model 509 977 by Connaught Electronics
Operation is subject to the following condi-
tions: (1) this device may not cause interfer-
ence, and (2) this device must accept any inter-
ference, including interference that may cause
undesired operation of the device.

06 Starting and driving
General information
06
134
Engine oil
Although some oil consumption occurs during
normal engine operation, more oil is consumed
when the engine is new as the internal parts
generate higher friction while wearing-in to
each other. From the time the engine is new
until the first maintenance is performed, the oil
consumption could be higher than normal. For
this reason, it is especially important to check
the oil regularly during this period, see
page 215.
Fuel requirements
Deposit control gasoline (detergent
additives)
Volvo recommends the use of detergent gas-
oline to control engine deposits. Detergent
gasoline is effective in keeping injectors and
intake valves clean. Consistent use of deposit
control gasolines will help ensure good driva-
bility and fuel economy. If you are not sure
whether the gasoline contains deposit control
additives, check with the service station oper-
ator.
NOTE
Volvo does not recommend the use of exter-
nal fuel injector cleaning systems.
Unleaded fuelEach Volvo has a three-way catalytic converter
and must use only unleaded gasoline. U.S. and
Canadian regulations require that pumps deliv-
ering unleaded gasoline be labelled "UNLEA-
DED". Only these pumps have nozzles which
fit your vehicle's filler inlet. It is unlawful to dis-
pense leaded fuel into a vehicle labelled
"unleaded gasoline only". Leaded gasoline
damages the three-way catalytic converter and
the heated oxygen sensor system. Repeated
use of leaded gasoline will lessen the effective-
ness of the emission control system and could
result in loss of emission warranty coverage.
State and local vehicle inspection programs
will make detection of misfueling easier, pos-
sibly resulting in emission test failure for mis-
fueled vehicles.
NOTE
Some U.S. and Canadian gasolines contain
an octane enhancing additive called methyl-
cyclopentadienyl manganese tricarbonyl
(MMT). If such fuels are used, your Emission
Control System performance may be affec-
ted, and the Check Engine Light (malfunc-
tion indicator lamp) located on your instru-
ment panel may light. If this occurs, please
return your vehicle to a trained and qualified
Volvo service technician for maintenance.
Gasoline containing alcohol and ethers"Oxygenated fuels"
Some fuel suppliers sell gasoline containing
"oxygenates" which are usually alcohols or
ethers. In some areas, state or local laws
require that the service pump be marked indi-
cating use of alcohols or ethers. However,
there are areas in which the pumps are
unmarked. If you are not sure whether there is
alcohol or ethers in the gasoline you buy, check
with the service station operator. To meet sea-
sonal air quality standards, some areas require
the use of "oxygenated" fuel.
Volvo allows the use of the following "oxygen-
ated" fuels; however, the octane ratings listed
on page 135 must still be met.
Alcohol – Ethanol: Fuels containing up to 10%
ethanol by volume may be used. Ethanol may
also be referred to as Ethyl alcohol, or "Gaso-
hol".
Ethers – MTBE: Fuels containing up to 15%
MTBE may be used.

06 Starting and driving
Fuel requirements
06

135 Octane rating
Minimum octane
G028920
Typical pump octane label
Volvo recommends premium for best perform-
ance, but using 87 octane1 or above will not
affect engine reliability.
Volvo engines are designed to achieve rated
horsepower, torque, and fuel economy per-
formance using premium 91 octane fuel.
Demanding drivingIn demanding driving conditions, such as oper-
ating the vehicle in hot weather, towing a trailer,
or driving for extended periods at higher alti-
tudes than normal, it may be advisable to
switch to higher octane fuel (91 or higher) or tochange gasoline brands to fully utilize your
engine's capacity, and for the smoothest pos-
sible operation.
NOTE
When switching to higher octane fuel or
changing gasoline brands, it may be neces-
sary to fill the tank more than once before a
difference in engine operation is noticeable.
Fuel FormulationsDo not use gasoline that contains lead as a
knock inhibitor, and do not use lead additives.
Besides damaging the exhaust emission con-
trol systems on your vehicle, lead has been
strongly linked to certain forms of cancer.
Many fuels contain benzene as a solvent.
Unburned benzene has been strongly linked to
certain forms of cancer. If you live in an area
where you must fill your own gas tank, take
precautions. These may include:
•standing upwind away from the filler nozzle
while refueling
•refueling only at gas stations with vapor
recovery systems that fully seal the mouth
of the filler neck during refueling
•wearing neoprene gloves while handling a
fuel filler nozzle.
Use of AdditivesWith the exception of gas line antifreeze during
winter months, do not add solvents, thicken-
ers, or other store-bought additives to your
vehicle's fuel, cooling, or lubricating systems.
Overuse may damage your engine, and some
of these additives contain organically volatile
chemicals. Do not needlessly expose yourself
to these chemicals.
WARNING
Carbon monoxide is a poisonous, colorless,
and odorless gas. It is present in all exhaust
gases. If you ever smell exhaust fumes
inside the vehicle, make sure the passenger
compartment is ventilated, and immediately
return the vehicle to a trained and qualified
Volvo service technician for correction.
1AKI (ANTI KNOCK INDEX) is an average of the Research Octane Number (RON) and the Motor Octane Number (MON), MON+RON/2.

06 Starting and driving
Fuel requirements
06
136
WARNING
Driving with the tailgate open: Driving with
the tailgate open could lead to poisonous
exhaust gases entering the passenger com-
partment.
•If the tailgate must be kept open for any
reason, proceed as follows:
•Close the windows
•Set the ventilation system control to air
flow to floor, windshield and side win-
dows and blower control to its highest
setting.
Gasoline containing alcohol and ethers,
"Oxygenated fuels"
Some fuel suppliers sell gasoline containing
"oxygenates" which are usually alcohols or
ethers. In some areas, state or local laws
require that the service pump be marked indi-
cating use of alcohols or ethers. However,
there are areas in which the pumps are
unmarked. If you are not sure whether there is
alcohol or ethers in the gasoline you buy, check
with the service station operator. To meet sea-
sonal air quality standards, some areas require
the use of "oxygenated" fuel.
Volvo allows the use of the following "oxygen-
ated" fuels; however, the octane ratings listed
on page 135 must still be met.
Alcohol – EthanolFuels containing up to 10% ethanol by volume
may be used. Ethanol may also be referred to
as Ethyl alcohol, or "Gasohol".
Ethers – MTBE: Fuels containing up to
15% MTBE may be used.
MethanolDo not use gasolines containing methanol
(methyl alcohol, wood alcohol). This practice
can result in vehicle performance deterioration
and can damage critical parts in the fuel sys-
tem. Such damage may not be covered under
the New Vehicle Limited Warranty.
Weight distribution affects handlingAt the specified curb weight your vehicle has a
tendency to understeer, which means that the
steering wheel has to be turned more than
might seem appropriate for the curvature of a
bend.
This ensures good stability and reduces the
risk of rear wheel skid. Remember that these
properties can alter with the vehicle load.
The heavier the load in the cargo area, the less
the tendency to understeer.
Handling, roadholdingVehicle load, tire design and inflation pressure
all affect vehicle handling. Therefore, check
that the tires are inflated to the recommendedpressure according to the vehicle load. See
"Tire pressure" section.
Loads should be distributed so that capacity
weight or maximum permissible axle loads are
not exceeded.
Conserving electrical currentKeep the following in mind to help minimize
battery drain:
•When the engine is not running, avoid turn-
ing the ignition key to position II (see
page 141). Many electrical systems (the
audio system, the optional infotainment/
navigation systems, power windows, etc)
will function with the ignition key in position
I. This position reduces drain on the bat-
tery.
•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. Driving or having the engine run-
ning for approximately 15 minutes will help
keep the battery charged.
NOTE
A warning message will be displayed in the
text window in the instrument panel when
the battery charge is low.