2006-2013 Volvo C30 4 Door Starting and driving User Manual
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Starting and driving for Your Volvo C30 4 Door First Generation (2006-2013)

06 Starting and driving  
General information  
Maintain correct tire pressure. Check tire  
pressure regularly (when tires are cold).  
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.  
WARNING  
Driving with the liftgate open: Driving with  
the liftgate open could lead to poisonous  
exhaust gases entering the passenger com-  
partment. If the liftgate must be kept open  
for any reason, proceed as follows:  
Remove snow tires when threat of snow or  
ice has ended.  
Note that roof racks, ski racks, etc,  
increase air resistance and also fuel con-  
sumption.  
1. Close the windows.  
Observe the following rules:  
At highway driving speeds, fuel consump-  
tion will be lower with the air conditioning  
on and the windows closed than with the  
air conditioning off and the windows open.  
2. Set the ventilation system control to air  
flow to floor, windshield and side win-  
dows and the blower control to its high-  
est setting.  
Bring the engine to normal operating tem-  
perature 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.  
Using the onboard trip computer's fuel  
consumption modes can help you learn  
how to drive more economically.  
Weight distribution affects handling  
Whenever possible, avoid using the vehicle  
At 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.  
for driving short distances. This does not  
allow the engine to reach normal operating  
temperature.  
Other factors that decrease gas mileage  
are:  
Dirty air cleaner  
Drive carefully and avoid rapid acceleration  
and hard braking.  
Dirty engine oil and clogged oil filter  
06  
Dragging brakes  
Use the transmission's Drive (D) position  
as often as possible and avoid using kick-  
down.  
Incorrect front end alignment  
Some of the above mentioned items and others  
are checked at the standard maintenance  
intervals.  
On models with a manual transmission,  
use the highest gear possible, depending  
on the vehicle's speed.  
Do not exceed posted speed limits.  
Avoid carrying unnecessary items (extra  
load) in the vehicle.  
142  
06 Starting and driving  
General information  
Volvo. Different types of antifreeze must  
not be mixed.  
Handling, roadholding  
CAUTION  
Vehicle load, tire design and inflation pressure  
all affect vehicle handling. Therefore, check  
that the tires are inflated to the recommended  
pressure according to the vehicle load. See the  
"Tire pressure" section. Loads should be dis-  
tributed so that capacity weight or maximum  
permissible axle loads are not exceeded.  
Engine damage will occur if water is  
drawn into the air cleaner.  
Volvo recommends using only genuine  
Volvo antifreeze in your vehicle's radiator.  
Your Volvo retailer stocks plenty of Volvo  
engine coolant to help protect your vehicle  
during cold weather.  
If the vehicle is driven through water  
deeper than 9 in. (25 cm), water may  
enter the differential and the transmis-  
sion. This reduces the oil's lubricating  
capacity and may shorten the service  
life of these components.  
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.  
Driving through water  
Do not allow the vehicle to stand in  
water up to the door sills longer than  
absolutely necessary. This could result  
in electrical malfunctions.  
The vehicle can be driven through water up to  
a depth of approximately 9 in. (25 cm), at a  
maximum speed of 6 mph (10 km/h).  
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. 0W-30 oil is recommended for  
driving in areas with sustained low temper-  
atures.  
If the engine has been stopped while the  
car is in water, do not attempt to restart  
the engine. Have the car towed out of  
the water.  
Take particular care when driving through  
flowing water.  
Clean the electrical connections for trailer  
wiring after driving in mud or water  
When driving through water, maintain low  
speed and do not stop in the water.  
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 anti-rust oil  
on the battery posts.  
06  
Cold weather precautions  
If you wish to check your vehicle before the  
approach of cold weather, the following advice  
is worth noting:  
WARNING  
After driving through water, press lightly on  
the brake pedal to ensure that the brakes  
are functioning normally. Water or mud can  
make the brake linings slippery, resulting in  
delayed braking effect.  
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  
143  
06 Starting and driving  
General information  
Volvo recommends the use of snow tires  
on all four wheels for winter driving – see  
the chapter "Wheels and tires."  
Conserving electrical current  
Keep the following in mind to help minimize  
battery drain:  
NOTE  
If the ignition is switched on, a warning  
message will be displayed in the text  
window in the instrument panel when  
the battery charge is low.  
To prevent the washer fluid reservoir from  
freezing, add washer solvents containing  
antifreeze (see page 220 for the location of  
the washer fluid reservoir). This is impor-  
tant since dirt is often splashed on the  
windshield during winter driving, requiring  
the frequent use of the washers and wip-  
ers. Volvo Washer Solvent should be dilu-  
ted 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 solvent and 2 parts  
water Down to –18 °F (–28 °C): 1 part  
washer solvent and 1 part water.  
When the engine is not running, avoid turn-  
ing the ignition key to position II. Many  
electrical systems (the audio system, the  
optional navigation system, power win-  
dows, etc) will function with the ignition key  
in position I. This position reduces drain on  
the battery.  
An energy conserving function  
designed into the vehicle's electrical  
system will switch off certain functions  
or reduce the load on the battery by,  
e.g., reducing the audio system's vol-  
ume.  
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.  
Before a long distance trip  
It is always worthwhile to have your vehicle  
checked at a trained and qualified Volvo serv-  
ice technician before driving long distances.  
Your trained and qualified Volvo service tech-  
nician will also be able to supply you with  
bulbs, fuses, spark plugs and wiper blades for  
your use in the event that problems occur.  
The optional 12 volt socket in the cargo  
Use Volvo Teflon Lock Spray in the locks.  
area (certain models only) provides electri-  
cal current even with the ignition switched  
off, which drains the battery.  
06  
NOTE  
Avoid using de-icing sprays as they can  
cause damage to the locks.  
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 checked1.  
Check condition of drive belts.  
1
To prevent injury from contact with hot surfaces, do not inspect your vehicle's transmission fluid yourself. Have your vehicle's transmission fluid level inspected by a qualified Volvo service technician.  
144  
06 Starting and driving  
General information  
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 your  
Volvo retailer only.  
Check all lights, including high beams.  
Reflective warning triangles are legally  
required in some states/provinces.  
Have a word with your Volvo retailer 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.  
06  
145  
06 Starting and driving  
Fuel requirements  
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.  
Octane rating  
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.  
Minimum octane  
Fuel Formulations  
WARNING  
Do 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.  
Never carry a cell phone that is switched  
on while refueling your vehicle. If the phone  
rings, this may cause a spark that could  
ignite gasoline fumes, resulting in fire and  
injury.  
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:  
WARNING  
Typical pump octane label  
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.  
Volvo recommends premium fuel for best per-  
formance, but using 87 octane1 or above will  
not affect engine reliability.  
standing upwind away from the filler nozzle  
while refueling  
06  
Demanding driving  
refueling only at gas stations with vapor  
recovery systems that fully seal the mouth  
of the filler neck during refueling  
In 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 to  
change gasoline brands to fully utilize your  
engine's capacity, and for the smoothest pos-  
sible operation.  
wearing neoprene gloves while handling a  
fuel filler nozzle.  
Use of Additives  
With the exception of gas line antifreeze during  
winter months, do not add solvents, thicken-  
1
AKI (ANTI KNOCK INDEX) is an average of the Research Octane Number (RON) and the Motor Octane Number (MON), MON+RON/2.  
146  
06 Starting and driving  
Fuel requirements  
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.  
use of the following "oxygenated" fuels; how-  
ever, the octane ratings listed on this page  
must still be met.  
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.  
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".  
NOTE  
Ethers – MTBE: Fuels containing up to 15%  
MTBE may be used.  
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.  
Methanol  
Do 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.  
NOTE  
Volvo does not recommend the use of  
store-bought fuel injector cleaning addi-  
tives.  
Unleaded fuel  
Fuel filler door  
Gasoline containing alcohol and ethers  
06  
Each 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-  
Press the button on the light switch panel (see  
the illustration on page 66) with the ignition  
switched off to unlock the fuel filler door.  
Please note that the fuel filler door will remain  
unlocked until the vehicle begins to move for-  
ward. An audible click will be heard when the  
fuel filler door relocks.  
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  
If you intend to leave your vehicle while it is  
being refueled, this feature enables you to lock  
the doors/liftgate while leaving the fuel filler  
door unlocked.  
147  
06 Starting and driving  
Fuel requirements  
under the New Vehicle Limited War-  
ranty.  
You can also keep the vehicle locked if you  
remain inside it during refueling. The central  
locking button does not lock the fuel filler door.  
CAUTION  
Do not refuel with the engine running2.  
Turn the ignition off or to position I. If the  
ignition is on, an incorrect reading could  
occur in the fuel gauge  
Be sure the fuel filler door is not obstructed and  
is completely closed after refueling. Open the  
fuel filler cap slowly during hot weather.  
After refueling, close the fuel filler cap  
by turning it clockwise until it clicks into  
place.  
Refueling  
The fuel tank is designed to accommodate  
possible expansion of the fuel in hot weather,  
see page 277 for fuel tank volume. Be aware  
that the "usable" tank capacity will be some-  
what less than the specified maximum. When  
the fuel level is low, such factors as ambient  
temperature, the fuel's "Reid vapor pressure"  
characteristics, and terrain can affect the fuel  
pump's ability to supply the engine with an  
adequate supply of fuel. Therefore, it is advis-  
able to refuel as soon as possible when the  
needle nears the red zone, or when the fuel  
warning light comes on.  
Avoid overfilling the fuel tank. Do not  
press the handle on the filler nozzle  
more than one extra time. Too much fuel  
in the tank in hot weather conditions can  
cause the fuel to overflow. Overfilling  
could also cause damage to the emis-  
sion control systems.  
Avoid spilling gasoline during refueling.  
In addition to causing damage to the  
environment, gasolines containing  
alcohol can cause damage to painted  
surfaces, which may not be covered  
under the New Vehicle Limited War-  
ranty.  
06  
Do not use gasolines containing meth-  
anol (methyl alcohol, wood alcohol).  
This practice can result in vehicle per-  
formance deterioration and can dam-  
age critical parts in the fuel system.  
Such damage may not be covered  
2
If the fuel filler cap is not closed tightly or if the engine is running when the vehicle is refueled, the Check Engine Light (malfunction indicator lamp) may indicate a fault. However, your vehicle’s  
performance will not be affected. Use only Volvo original or approved fuel filler caps.  
148  
06 Starting and driving  
Ignition switch  
Ignition switch positions  
0 – Locked position  
II – Drive position  
The key's position when driv-  
ing. The vehicle's entire elec-  
trical system is activated.  
Remove the key to lock the  
steering wheel1. Never turn  
the key to position 0 while  
driving or when the vehicle is  
being towed.  
III – Start position  
Turn the key to this position  
and release it immediately.  
The key returns automatically  
to the Drive position.  
NOTE  
A ticking sound may be audible if the key is  
turned to a position between 0 and I. To  
stop this sound, turn the key to position II  
and back to position 0.  
A chime will sound if the key  
is left in the ignition and the  
driver's door is opened (does not apply to vehi-  
cles with the optional keyless drive).  
I – Intermediate position2  
Certain accessories, radio,  
etc. on, daytime running lights  
off.  
06  
1
2
Automatic transmission: the gear selector must be in the Park position. The optional keyless drive start control does not need to be removed.  
Please be aware that leaving the key in positions I or II will increase battery drain.  
149  
06 Starting and driving  
Starting the vehicle  
3. The vehicle is equipped with an autostart  
feature. Without touching the throttle  
pedal, turn the key to position III and  
release it. The starter motor will then oper-  
ate automatically (for up to ten seconds)  
until the engine starts. If the engine fails to  
start, repeat this step.  
To start the engine  
WARNING  
WARNING  
Never use more than one floor mat at a  
time on the driver's floor. An extra mat  
on the driver's floor can cause the  
accelerator and/or brake pedal to  
catch. Check that the movement of  
these pedals is not impeded.  
Before starting, check that the seat, steering  
wheel and mirrors are adjusted properly.  
Make sure the brake pedal can be  
depressed completely. Adjust the seat if  
necessary.  
Volvo's floor mats are specially manu-  
factured for your car. They must be  
firmly secured in the clips on the floor so  
that they cannot slide and become trap-  
ped under the pedals on the driver's  
side.  
CAUTION  
1. Fasten the seat belt.  
If the engine does not start after the third try,  
wait for approximately 3 minutes before try-  
ing to start it again to give the battery time  
to recover its starting capacity.  
2. Apply the parking brake if not already set.  
The gear selector should be locked in the  
Park (P) position (Shiftlock). See also page  
158.  
4. To release the gear selector from the Park  
(P) position, the engine must be running (or  
the ignition key must be in position II) and  
the brake pedal must be depressed.  
Manual transmission: The clutch must be  
fully depressed.  
NOTE  
5. Select the desired gear. On models with an  
automatic transmission, the gear engages  
after a very slight delay, which is especially  
noticeable when selecting R.  
After a cold start, idle speed may be notice-  
ably higher than normal for a short period.  
This is done to help bring components in the  
emission control system to their normal  
operating temperature as quickly as possi-  
ble, which enables them to control emis-  
sions and help reduce the vehicle's impact  
on the environment.  
06  
150  
06 Starting and driving  
Starting the vehicle  
NOTE  
WARNING  
Immobilizer: 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 interference 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.  
Always place the gear selector in Park  
(P) (manual transmission: first or reverse  
gear) and apply the parking brake  
before leaving the vehicle. Never leave  
the vehicle unattended with the engine  
running.  
Always open garage doors fully before  
starting the engine inside a garage to  
ensure adequate ventilation. The  
exhaust gases contain carbon monox-  
ide, which is invisible and odorless but  
very poisonous.  
Keylock: Models equipped an auto-  
matic transmission have a keylock sys-  
tem. When the engine is switched off,  
the gear selector must be in the Park  
(P) position before the key can be  
removed from the ignition switch1.  
CAUTION  
Automatic transmission: The engine  
should be idling when you move the gear  
selector. Never accelerate until after you  
feel the transmission engage! Accelerating  
immediately after selecting a gear will cause  
harsh engagement and premature trans-  
mission wear. Selecting P or N when idling  
at a standstill for prolonged periods of time  
will help prevent overheating of the auto-  
matic transmission fluid.  
When starting in cold weather, an auto-  
matic transmission may shift up at  
slightly higher engine speeds than nor-  
mal until the automatic transmission  
fluid reaches normal operating tem-  
perature.  
06  
Do not race a cold engine immediately  
after starting. Oil flow may not reach  
some lubrication points fast enough to  
prevent engine damage.  
1
The optional keyless drive start control does not need to be removed from the ignition switch.  
151  
06 Starting and driving  
Starting the vehicle with keyless drive*  
Starting a vehicle with keyless drive  
WARNING  
NOTE  
The vehicle is equipped with an autostart  
function that makes it possible to start the  
engine without holding the start control in  
position III. Turn the start control to posi-  
tion III and release it. The starter motor will  
then operate automatically (for up to ten  
seconds) until the engine starts.  
Never use more than one floor mat at a  
time on the driver's floor. An extra mat  
on the driver's floor can cause the  
accelerator and/or brake pedal to  
catch. Check that the movement of  
these pedals is not impeded.  
Volvo's floor mats are specially manu-  
factured for your car. They must be  
firmly secured in the clips on the floor so  
that they cannot slide and become trap-  
ped under the pedals on the driver's  
side.  
CAUTION  
If the engine does not start after the third try,  
wait for approximately 3 minutes before try-  
ing to start it again to give the battery time  
to recover its starting capacity.  
NOTE  
Starting the vehicle with the ignition key  
(remote key)  
A vehicle with keyless drive can also be started  
with the ignition key (if, for example, the battery  
in the keyless drive remote key is weak). To do  
so:  
Keyless drive makes it possible to unlock, start  
and lock the vehicle without using a remote  
key.  
A keyless drive remote key must be inside  
the vehicle in order to start the engine.  
06  
A start control is fitted in the ignition switch on  
vehicles equipped with the optional keyless  
drive. This control is used in the same way as  
the ignition key to start the engine. See also  
page 150 for general information on starting  
the engine.  
1. Press the brake pedal (the clutch pedal  
must also be fully depressed on models  
with a manual transmission).  
2. Press in the keyless drive start control and  
turn it to position III.  
152  
* Option/accessory, for more information, see Introduction.  
06 Starting and driving  
Starting the vehicle with keyless drive*  
Removing the keyless drive start control  
Press the catch on the side of the start con-  
trol (see the illustration).  
Pull the keyless drive start control out of the  
ignition switch.  
06  
Insert the remote key into the ignition switch  
and turn it to position III to start the engine,  
page 150 for complete starting information.  
153  
* Option/accessory, for more information, see Introduction.  
06 Starting and driving  
Manual transmission, 6-speed*  
6-speed manual transmission  
CAUTION  
NOTE  
The transmission’s temperature is moni-  
tored to help prevent damage to the trans-  
mission or other drivetrain components. If  
there is a risk of overheating, the warning  
symbol on the instrument panel will illumi-  
nate and a text message will be displayed.  
Follow the instructions provided there.  
Reverse gear is electronically blocked to  
help prevent it from being selected while the  
vehicle is moving forward.  
CAUTION  
Never shift into reverse while moving for-  
ward.  
Engaging reverse gear, 6-speed  
transmission  
WARNING  
An extra mat on the driver's floor can cause  
the accelerator, brake, and/or clutch pedal  
to catch. Check that the movement of these  
pedals is not impeded. Not more than one  
protective floor covering may be used at  
one time.  
Depress the clutch pedal completely when  
changing gears1  
Remove your foot from the clutch pedal  
while driving. The shift pattern should be  
followed.  
06  
Overdrive (5th and 6th gears) should be  
used as often as possible to help improve  
fuel economy.  
Reverse gear should only be engaged from a  
complete stop.  
1
Clutch interlock: The clutch must be fully depressed before the engine can be started. If the clutch is not depressed, it will not be possible to start the engine.  
154  
* Option/accessory, for more information, see Introduction.  
06 Starting and driving  
Automatic transmission  
Shiftgate positions  
CAUTION  
The transmission’s temperature is moni-  
tored to help prevent damage to the trans-  
mission or other drivetrain components. If  
there is a risk of overheating, the warning  
symbol on the instrument panel will illumi-  
nate and a text message will be displayed.  
Follow the instructions provided there.  
Gear selector positions  
P – Park  
Select the P position when starting or parking.  
In P, the transmission is mechanically blocked  
(Shiftlock). Always apply the parking brake  
when parking.  
D - left position: automatic shifting, M - right posi-  
tion: manual shifting  
Depress the button1 on the front of the gear  
selector knob to move the selector between  
the R, N, D, and P positions.  
CAUTION  
The car must be stationary when selecting  
position P.  
06  
The gear selector can be moved freely between  
the Geartronic (manual shifting) and Drive (D)  
positions while driving.  
R – Reverse  
The car must be stationary when shifting to  
position R.  
N – Neutral  
N is the neutral position. The engine can be  
started, but no gear is selected. Apply the park-  
1
The automatic transmission is available as on option  
155  
06 Starting and driving  
Automatic transmission  
not occur until the speed has decreased  
enough to allow the lower gear to be used.  
ing brake when the car is stationary with the  
gear selector in N.  
Manual shifting – Geartronic  
The manual shifting mode (Geartronic) can be  
selected at any time to manually select forward  
gears, including while the car is moving.  
If you slow to a very low speed, the trans-  
mission will automatically shift down.  
NOTE  
If the gear selector is in the Neutral position  
and the vehicle has been at a standstill for  
at least 3 seconds, the brake pedal must be  
pressed before the gear selector can be  
moved to another position.  
NOTE  
Cold starts (turbo engines)  
When driving before the engine has reached its  
normal operating temperature, the transmis-  
sion will shift up at slightly higher engine  
speeds to heat the three-way catalytic con-  
verter as quickly as possible.  
Reverse, Neutral, and Park cannot be  
selected in Geartronic mode.  
To access the Manual (M) shifting position  
from Drive (D), move the gear selector to  
the right to M.  
In order to move the gear selector to another  
position:  
1. Turn the ignition key to position II (if the  
Kickdown  
To return to the Drive (D) position from M,  
move the gear selector to the left.  
engine is not already running).  
Automatic 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.  
2. Depress the brake pedal.  
While driving  
3. Move the gear selector to the desired posi-  
tion.  
If you select the M position while driving,  
the gear that was being used in the Drive  
position will also initially be selected in the  
M position.  
06  
D – Drive  
D is the normal driving position. The Drive posi-  
tion offers 5 forward gears2. The car automat-  
ically shifts between the various forward gears,  
based on the level of acceleration and speed.  
The car must be at a standstill when shifting to  
position D from position R.  
Move the gear selector forward (toward  
"+") to shift to a higher gear or rearward  
(toward "") to shift to a lower gear.  
Safety function  
To help prevent excessive engine speeds (rpm)  
that could lead to engine damage, the engine  
management system includes a function that  
prevents kickdown from taking place if the  
engine speed is too high.  
If you hold the gear selector toward "", the  
transmission will downshift one gear at a  
time and will utilize the braking power of  
the engine. If the current speed is too high  
for using a lower gear, the downshift will  
Kickdown will not occur if the driver attempts  
to use this function when engine speeds are  
2
T5 models have 6 forward gears.  
156  
06 Starting and driving  
Automatic transmission  
too high. The transmission will remain in the  
currently selected gear.  
06  
157  
06 Starting and driving  
Shiftlock override  
4. Insert the key blade, see page 128, into the  
opening and press it down until it bottoms.  
Overriding the shiftlock system  
5. With the key blade pressed down, move  
the gear selector out of the P position.  
Shiftlock prevents the gear selector from being  
moved out of the P position unless the ignition  
key is in position II and the brake pedal is  
depressed.  
06  
In certain cases it may be necessary to move  
the gear selector from the P position manually.  
To manually override the Shiftlock  
system:  
1. Apply the parking brake.  
2. Depress the brake pedal.  
3. There is a small cover below P-R-N-D on  
the gear selector panel. Open the rear edge  
of the panel.  
158  
06 Starting and driving  
Brake system  
WARNING  
Brake lights  
The brake lights come on automatically when  
the brakes are applied.  
WARNING  
If the vehicle has been driven immedi-  
ately prior to a brake pad inspection, the  
wheel hub, brake components, etc., will  
be very hot. Allow time for these com-  
ponents to cool before carrying out the  
inspection.  
Use the jack intended for the vehicle  
when changing a tire. For any other job,  
use stands to support the vehicle.  
Adaptive brake lights  
The jack should be kept well-greased  
and clean, and should not be damaged.  
The adaptive brake lights activate in the event  
of sudden braking or if the ABS system is acti-  
vated. This function causes an additional tail-  
light on each side of the vehicle to illuminate to  
help alert vehicles traveling behind.  
Be sure the jack is on a firm, level, non-  
slippery surface.  
Apply the parking brake and put the  
gear selector in the Park (P) position.  
No objects should be placed between  
Block the wheels standing on the  
ground, use rigid wooden blocks or  
large stones.  
the base of jack and the ground, or  
between the jack and the attachment  
bar on the vehicle.  
The adaptive brake lights activate if:  
The ABS system activates for more than  
approximately a half second  
The jack must correctly engage the jack  
attachment.  
In the event of sudden braking while the  
vehicle is moving at speeds above approx-  
imately 6 mph (10 km/h)  
Never allow any part of your body to be  
extended under a vehicle supported by  
a jack.  
When the vehicle has come to a stop, the brake  
lights and additional taillights remain on for as  
long as the brake pedal is depressed or until  
braking force on the vehicle is reduced.  
06  
Brake circuit malfunction  
The brake system is a hydraulic system con-  
sisting of two separate brake circuits. If a prob-  
lem should occur in one of these circuits, it is  
still possible to stop the vehicle with the other  
brake circuit.  
Brake pad inspection  
On vehicles equipped with a jack*, the condi-  
tion of the brake pads can be checked by rais-  
ing the vehicle (see page 200 for information  
about using the jack and removing a wheel)  
and performing a visual inspection of the brake  
pads.  
If the brake pedal must be depressed farther  
than normal and requires greater foot pressure,  
the stopping distance will be longer.  
159  
* Option/accessory, for more information, see Introduction.  
06 Starting and driving  
Brake system  
A warning light in the instrument panel will light  
up to warn the driver that a fault has occurred.  
ple when towing your vehicle or if the engine is  
switched off when the vehicle is rolling. The  
brake pedal feels harder than usual.  
Anti-lock brakes (ABS)  
The Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) helps to  
improve vehicle control (stopping and steering)  
during severe braking conditions by limiting  
brake lockup. When the system "senses"  
impending lockup, braking pressure is auto-  
matically modulated in order to help prevent  
lockup that could lead to a skid.  
If this light comes on while driving or braking,  
stop immediately and check the brake fluid  
level in the reservoir.  
Water on brake discs and brake pads  
affects braking  
NOTE  
Driving 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.  
Press the brake pedal hard and maintain  
pressure on the pedal – do not pump the  
brakes.  
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.  
WARNING  
If the fluid level is below the MIN mark in the  
reservoir or if a brake system message is  
shown in the information display, DO NOT  
DRIVE. Have the vehicle towed to a Volvo  
retailer and have the brake system inspec-  
ted.  
For optimal ABS braking effect:  
1. Press down on the brake pedal with full  
force. The pedal will pulsate.  
Severe strain on the brake system  
06  
2. Steer the vehicle in the direction of travel  
and keep the brake pedal depressed.  
The brakes will be subject to severe strain  
when driving in mountains or hilly areas, or  
when towing a trailer. 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.  
Power brakes function only when the  
engine is running  
The 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.  
Electronic Brake Force Distribution  
(EBD)  
EBD is an integrated part of the ABS system.  
EBD regulates the hydraulic pressure to the  
rear brakes to help provide optimal braking  
capacity.  
If the power brakes are not working, consider-  
ably higher pressure will be required on the  
brake pedal to compensate for the lack of  
power assistance. This can happen for exam-  
The switching of the ABS modulator will be  
audible and the brake pedal will pulsate during  
160  
06 Starting and driving  
Brake system  
braking. Please be aware that ABS does not  
increase the absolute braking potential of the  
vehicle. While control will be enhanced, ABS  
will not shorten stopping distances on slippery  
surfaces.  
in order to utilize the system completely. EBA  
is automatically deactivated when the brake  
pedal is released.  
NOTE  
If the warning lamp lights up there is a mal-  
function of the ABS system (the standard brak-  
ing system will still function) and the vehicle  
should be driven cautiously to a trained and  
qualified Volvo service technician for inspec-  
tion.  
When the EBA system is activated, the  
brake pedal will go down and pressure  
in the brake system immediately increa-  
ses to the maximum level. You must  
maintain full pressure on the brake  
pedal in order to utilize the system com-  
pletely. There will be no braking effect if  
the pedal is released. EBA is automati-  
cally deactivated when the brake pedal  
is released.  
WARNING  
If the BRAKES and ABS warning symbols  
light at the same time, there may be a prob-  
lem in the brake system. If the brake fluid  
level is normal in these circumstances, drive  
carefully to a trained and qualified Volvo  
service technician to have the brake system  
checked.  
When the vehicle has been parked for  
some time, the brake pedal may sink  
more than usual when the engine is  
started. This is normal and the pedal will  
return to its usual position when it is  
released.  
06  
Emergency Brake Assistance – EBA  
EBA is designed to provide full brake effect  
immediately in the event of sudden, hard brak-  
ing. The system is activated by the speed with  
which the brake pedal is depressed.  
When the EBA system is activated, the brake  
pedal will go down and pressure in the brake  
system immediately increases to the maximum  
level. Maintain full pressure on the brake pedal  
161  
06 Starting and driving  
Parking brake  
4. If the vehicle rolls, the parking brake lever  
must be pulled more firmly.  
Parking brake (hand brake)  
5. When parking a vehicle always put the gear  
selector in first gear (for manual transmis-  
sion) or P (for automatic transmission).  
Parking on a hill  
If the vehicle is pointing uphill, turn the front  
wheels so that they point away from the  
curb.  
If the vehicle is pointing downhill, turn the  
front wheels so that they point toward the  
curb.  
Releasing the parking brake  
1. Press firmly on the brake pedal.  
The parking brake lever is located between the  
front seats.  
2. Pull the lever up slightly, press the button  
at the end of the lever and lower the lever  
completely.  
NOTE  
06  
WARNING  
The indicator light will illuminate even if the  
parking brake has only been partially  
applied.  
Pull up the parking brake lever up firmly to  
its full extent.  
When applying the parking brake  
1. Press firmly on the brake pedal.  
2. Pull the parking brake lever up firmly to its  
full extent.  
3. Release the brake pedal and ensure that  
the vehicle is at a standstill.  
162  
06 Starting and driving  
Stability system  
Dynamic Stability Traction Control  
(DSTC)  
The stability system consists of a number of  
functions designed to help reduce wheel spin,  
counteract skidding, and to generally help  
improve directional stability.  
Temporarily switching off Spin control  
1. Turn the thumbwheel (A) on the left-side  
steering wheel lever until the DSTC menu  
is displayed.  
2. Hold down the RESET button (B) to toggle  
between DSTC ON or DSTC SPIN  
CONTROL OFF.  
A pulsating sound will be audible when the  
system is actively operating and is normal.  
NOTE  
Traction control (TC)  
The message DSTC SPIN CONTROL  
OFF indicates that the stability sys-  
tem's spin control function has tempo-  
rarily been switched off.  
This function is designed to help reduce wheel  
spin by transferring power from a drive wheel  
that begins to lose traction to the wheel on the  
opposite side of the vehicle (on the same axle).  
The spin control function is automati-  
cally enabled each time the engine is  
started.  
Thumb wheel  
RESET button  
TC is most active at low speeds.  
This is one of the stability system's permanent  
functions and cannot be switched off.  
DSTC ON indicates that all system  
functions are active.  
Spin control (SC)  
The spin control function is designed to help  
prevent the drive wheels from spinning while  
the vehicle is accelerating.  
06  
Active yaw control – AYC  
This function helps maintain directional stabil-  
ity, for example when cornering, by braking  
one or more of the wheels if the vehicle shows  
a tendency to skid or slide laterally.  
Under certain circumstances, such as when  
driving with snow chains, or driving in deep  
snow or loose sand, it may be advisable to  
temporarily switch off this function for maxi-  
mum tractive force.  
This is one of the stability system's permanent  
functions and cannot be switched off.  
163  
06 Starting and driving  
Stability system  
If the  
and  
symbols light up at the same  
WARNING  
time, read the message in the display.  
The car's handling and stability characteris-  
tics will be altered if the DSTC system func-  
tions have been disabled.  
If only the  
one of the following situations:  
symbol lights up, this indicates  
The light illuminates for approximately  
DSTC-related messages in the text  
window  
2 seconds to indicate that the system is  
performing a self-diagnostic test when the  
engine is started.  
"TRACTION CONTROL TEMPORARILY  
OFF" – The system has been temporarily  
switched off due to high brake temperature  
and will automatically switch on again  
when the brakes have cooled.  
If the light flashes while driving, this indi-  
cates that the stability system is actively  
functioning to help counteract wheel spin  
and/or a skid.  
"ANTI-SKID SERVICE REQUIRED" – the  
system has been automatically disen-  
gaged due to a fault. A trained and qualified  
Volvo service technician retailer should  
check the system.  
If this light stays on after the engine has  
started or comes on while driving, there  
may be a fault in the stability system. Con-  
sult a trained and qualified Volvo service  
technician.  
If Spin control has been intentionally  
Symbols used by the stability system  
Stability system indicator light  
06  
switched off, a message will be displayed.  
WARNING  
The stability system is intended to help  
improve driving safety. It supplements, but  
can never replace, the driver's judgement  
and responsibility when operating the vehi-  
cle. Speed and driving style should always  
be adapted to traffic and road conditions.  
Information symbol  
164  
06 Starting and driving  
Towing  
Towing the vehicle  
The towing eyelet (1) is located under the  
floor of the cargo area.  
After the vehicle has been towed, the eyelet  
should be removed and returned to its storage  
space.  
Towing a vehicle with all four wheels on  
the ground  
Remove the cover over the opening for the  
towing eyelet on the front bumper by pry-  
ing open the lower edge with a coin, etc.  
06  
WARNING  
WARNING  
Volvo does not recommend towing a disa-  
bled vehicle behind another vehicle. Signif-  
icant difficulty in steering and braking, com-  
bined with unfavorable weather, traffic, and  
road conditions may make it impossible to  
maintain vehicle control.  
Do not use the towing eyelets to pull the  
vehicle up onto a flat bed tow truck.  
Remove the cover over the opening for the  
towing eyelet on the rear bumper by press-  
ing the lower right corner of the cover.  
Screw the towing eyelet in place first by  
hand and then using the tire iron until it is  
securely in place.  
1. Apply the parking brake.  
165  
06 Starting and driving  
Towing  
2. Insert the key into the ignition to unlock the  
steering wheel. With the engine off and the  
vehicle at a standstill, great effort will be  
required to turn the steering wheel.  
Towing vehicles with front wheel drive  
WARNING  
Volvo recommends the use of flat bed equip-  
ment for towing vehicles with front wheel drive.  
If wheel lift equipment must be used, please  
use extreme caution to help avoid damage to  
the vehicle.  
Never allow a vehicle to be towed with-  
out a driver behind the wheel of the dis-  
abled vehicle.  
3. Turn the ignition key to position II.  
When the engine is not running, steering  
resistance and the effort needed to  
apply the brakes will be great.  
4. Place the gear selector in neutral. For vehi-  
cles with automatic transmissions, follow  
instruction on page 158, "Shiftlock over-  
ride" to allow the gear selector to be moved  
from the Park position.  
In this case, the vehicle should be towed with  
the rear wheels on the ground if at all possible.  
Never attempt to tow a vehicle with a  
dead battery at night.  
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.  
5. Keep firm pressure on the brake pedal  
while releasing the parking brake.  
CAUTION  
Check with state and local authorities  
before attempting this type of towing,  
as vehicles being towed are subject to  
regulations regarding maximum towing  
speed, length and type of towing  
Sling-type equipment applied at the front  
will damage radiator and air conditioning  
lines.  
6. When towing has been completed, return  
the gear selector to Park (automatic) or  
Reverse (manual) and apply the parking  
brake.  
It is equally important not to use sling-type  
equipment at the rear or apply lifting equip-  
ment inside the rear wheels; serious dam-  
age to the rear axle may result.  
device, lighting, marker flags, etc.  
The following points should also be  
observed:  
Never attempt to push- or tow-start a  
vehicle with a dead battery. This would  
inject unburned fuel into the three-way  
catalytic converter(s), causing over-  
heating, backfiring, and damage, see  
page 168 for instructions on jump star-  
ting the vehicle.  
06  
Never exceed 50 mph (80 km/h). Never  
exceed local towing speed limits and heed  
all local towing restrictions.  
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. Con-  
sult the tow truck operator.  
Never tow farther than 50 miles (80 km).  
Keep the tow rope taut at all times while the  
vehicle is in motion.  
The disabled vehicle should be towed in  
the forward direction only.  
166  
06 Starting and driving  
Towing  
WARNING  
The power brakes and power steering  
will not function when the engine is not  
running. Approximately 5 times more  
pressure will be required on the brake  
pedal and the steering wheel will be  
considerably harder to turn.  
The towing eyelets must not be used for  
pulling the 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.  
06  
167  
06 Starting and driving  
Jump starting  
your vehicle's battery (2), marked with a  
"+" sign.  
Jump starting the vehicle  
WARNING  
Do not connect the jumper cable to any  
part of the fuel system or to any moving  
parts. Avoid touching hot manifolds.  
3. Connect the auxiliary battery's negative (–)  
terminal (3) to the ground point in your  
vehicle's engine compartment near the  
driver's side spring strut (4).  
Batteries generate hydrogen gas, which  
is flammable and explosive.  
4. Start the engine in the assisting vehicle,  
then start the engine in the vehicle with  
dead battery.  
Battery fluid contains sulfuric acid. Do  
not allow battery fluid to contact eyes,  
skin, fabrics or painted surfaces. If con-  
tact occurs, flush the affected area  
immediately with water. Obtain medical  
help immediately if eyes are affected.  
5. After the engine has started, first remove  
the negative (–) terminal jumper cable.  
Then remove the positive (+) terminal  
jumper cable.  
Never expose the battery to open flame  
or electric spark.  
Do not smoke near the battery.  
WARNING  
Follow these instructions to jump start your  
vehicle's dead battery or to jump start another  
vehicle's dead battery using your vehicle. If the  
12-volt auxiliary battery to be used is in another  
vehicle, check that the vehicles are not touch-  
ing to prevent premature completion of a cir-  
cuit. Be sure to follow jump starting instruc-  
tions provided for the other vehicle.  
Failure to follow the instructions for  
jump starting can lead to personal  
injury.  
PROPOSITION 65 WARNING!  
Battery posts, terminals, and related acces-  
sories contain lead and lead compounds,  
chemicals known to the state of California  
to cause cancer and reproductive harm.  
Wash hands after handling.  
06  
Do not touch the jumper cables during  
the attempt to start the vehicle. This  
could cause sparks.  
To jump start your vehicle:  
1. Switch off the ignition.  
2. First connect the auxiliary battery positive  
(+) terminal (1) to the positive (+) terminal in  
168  
06 Starting and driving  
Transporting loads  
Never exceed the rack manufacturer's  
weigh limits and never exceed the maxi-  
mum rated roof load of 165 lbs (75 kg).  
Loading the vehicle  
Your vehicle's load-carrying capacity is affec-  
ted by factors such as:  
WARNING  
Remember that an object weighing  
44 lbs (20 kg) produces a force of  
2,200 lbs (1,000 kg) in a head-on colli-  
sion at 30 mph (50 km/h)!  
Avoid single-point loads. Distribute loads  
evenly.  
the number of passengers  
tire inflation  
Place heavier cargo at the bottom of the  
load.  
When the rear backrest(s) are folded  
down, the vehicle should not be loaded  
to a level higher than 2 in. (5 cm) below  
the upper edge of the rear side win-  
dows. Objects placed higher than this  
level could impede the function of the  
Inflatable Curtain.  
the amount of optional or accessory equip-  
ment installed  
Secure the cargo correctly with appropri-  
ate tie-down equipment.  
the amount of cargo.  
See the chapter "Wheels and tires" for more  
detailed information.  
Check periodically that the load carriers  
and load are properly secured.  
Remember that the car's center of gravity  
and handling change when you carry a  
load on the roof.  
Before loading the car, turn off the engine, and  
apply the parking brake when loading or  
unloading long objects. The gear selector can  
be inadvertently knocked out of position by  
long cargo, causing the car to move.  
Load carriers (accessory)  
The car's wind resistance and fuel con-  
sumption will increase with the size of the  
load.  
Load carriers are available as Volvo accesso-  
ries. Follow the installation instructions sup-  
plied with the load carriers.  
Drive smoothly. Avoid rapid starts, fast  
cornering and hard braking.  
Keep the following in mind when  
loading the vehicle:  
Observe the following points when using load  
carriers:  
06  
Load objects in the cargo area against the  
rear seat backrest.  
To avoid damaging your car and to achieve  
maximum safety when driving, we recom-  
mend using the load carriers that Volvo has  
developed especially for your car.  
Load heavy cargo as low as possible.  
Center wide loads.  
Secure all cargo with restraining straps  
anchored to the load securing eyelets.  
Volvo-approved removable roof racks are  
designed to carry the maximum allowable  
roof load for this vehicle: 165 lbs (75 kg).  
For Non-Volvo roof racks, check the man-  
ufacturer's weight limits for the rack.  
Cover sharp edges on the load.  
The rear seats can be folded down to  
extend the cargo compartment, see  
page 117.  
169  
06 Starting and driving  
Blind Spot Information System (BLIS)*  
Introduction  
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 tech-  
nology. The cameras (1) are located beneath  
the side-view mirrors.  
A = approx. 10 ft. (3 meters), B = approx. 31 ft.  
(9.5 meters)  
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), the  
indicator light in the door panel (2) illuminates.  
The light will glow continuously to alert the  
driver of the vehicle in the blind area.  
BLIS camera  
Indicator light  
BLIS symbol  
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 172) will appear in the informa-  
tion 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 172).  
06  
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 side-view mirror's "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.  
CAUTION  
The BLIS system should only be repaired by  
a trained and qualified Volvo service tech-  
nician.  
170  
* Option/accessory, for more information, see Introduction.  
06 Starting and driving  
Blind Spot Information System (BLIS)*  
When does BLIS function  
The system functions when your vehicle is  
moving at speeds above 6 mph (10 km/h).  
Darkness  
NOTE  
BLIS reacts to the headlights of surrounding  
vehicles. In order to be detected by BLIS, a  
vehicle in the blind area must have its head-  
lights on. This means, for example, that the  
system will not detect a trailer without head-  
If the BLIS indicator lights illuminate occa-  
sionally even when there are no other vehi-  
cles in the blind area, this does not indicate  
a fault in the system.  
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.  
In the event of a fault, Blind spot syst.  
Service required will be displayed.  
lights that is being towed behind a car or truck.  
WARNING  
When you are passed by another vehicle:  
The following are several examples of situa-  
tions in which the BLIS indicator light(s) may  
illuminate even when there are no other vehi-  
cles in the area monitored by the system.  
BLIS does not react to cyclists or  
mopeds.  
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.  
BLIS does not react to vehicles that are  
standing still.  
WARNING  
The BLIS cameras have the same limi-  
tation as the human eye. In other words,  
their "vision is impaired" by adverse  
weather conditions such as heavy  
snowfall, intense light directly into the  
camera, dense fog, etc.  
BLIS does not function in sharp curves.  
BLIS does not function when your vehi-  
cle is backing up.  
If you are towing a wide trailer, this may  
prevent the BLIS cameras from detect-  
ing other vehicles in adjacent lanes.  
06  
Light reflected from a wet road surface  
Limitations  
In certain situations, the BLIS indicator light(s)  
may illuminate even when there are no other  
vehicles in the area monitored by the system.  
How BLIS functions in daylight and  
darkness  
Daylight  
BLIS reacts to the shape of surrounding vehi-  
cles. The system is designed to help detect  
motor vehicles such as cars, trucks, buses,  
motorcycles, etc.  
171  
* Option/accessory, for more information, see Introduction.  
06 Starting and driving  
Blind Spot Information System (BLIS)*  
when the system is switched off, and a text  
message is displayed.  
CAUTION  
Clean the lenses carefully to avoid  
scratching.  
BLIS can be switched on again by pressing  
the button. The indicator light in the button  
will illuminate and a new text message will  
be displayed. Press the READ button, see  
page 61, to erase the message.  
The lenses are electrically heated to  
help melt ice or snow. If necessary, gen-  
tly brush away snow from the lenses.  
The vehicle's own shadow against a large, light,  
smooth surface such as barriers between lanes on  
a highway  
BLIS system messages  
Switching BLIS on and off  
Text in the  
display  
System status  
BLIS not functioning  
properly. Contact an  
authorized Volvo serv-  
ice technician.  
BLIS SERVICE  
REQUIRED  
BLIS camera obscured.  
Clean the lenses.  
BLIS CAMERA  
BLOCKED  
Sunlight directly in the camera when the sun is low  
on the horizon  
BLIS system on  
BLIS ON  
06  
Cleaning the BLIS camera lenses  
In order to function optimally, the BLIS camera  
lenses must be kept clean. They can be wiped  
clean with a soft cloth or wet sponge.  
BLIS button (left button in the illustration)  
BLIS is automatically activated when the igni-  
tion is switched on. The indicator lights will  
provide confirmation by flashing 3 times.  
The system can be switched off by press-  
ing the BLIS button in the center console.  
The indicator light in the button goes out  
172  
* Option/accessory, for more information, see Introduction.  
06 Starting and driving  
Blind Spot Information System (BLIS)*  
Text in the  
display  
System status  
BLIS system off  
BLIS OFF  
The BLIS cameras'  
function has been  
BLIS REDUCED  
FUNCTION  
reduced due to weak or  
impaired data transfer  
between the BLIS sys-  
tem's cameras and the  
vehicle's electrical sys-  
tem. The cameras will  
reset themselves when  
this data transfer has  
returned to normal.  
06  
173  
* Option/accessory, for more information, see Introduction.  
06 Starting and driving  
Rear park assist*  
Introduction  
Function  
Activating/deactivating park assist  
The system is activated automatically when the  
vehicle is started. The indicator light in the but-  
ton in the center console illuminates. Park  
assist monitors the area behind the vehicle  
when the engine is running and reverse gear  
has been selected.  
The 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 rear-mounted  
carrier, etc., which could trigger the rear park  
assist system's sensors.  
Rear park assist  
Park Assist button (right button in the illustration)  
NOTE  
The park assist system is designed to assist  
you when driving into parking spaces, garages,  
etc. It utilizes four ultrasound sensors located  
in the rear bumper to measure the distance to  
a vehicle, object or a person who may be close  
to the rear of your vehicle.  
The system is activated automatically when the  
vehicle is started.  
Rear park assist is deactivated automati-  
cally when towing a trailer if Volvo genuine  
trailer wiring is used.  
06  
Press the Park assist button on the center  
console to temporarily deactivate the sys-  
tem. The indicator light in the button will go  
out when the system has been deacti-  
vated.  
WARNING  
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).  
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.  
174  
* Option/accessory, for more information, see Introduction.  
06 Starting and driving  
Rear park assist*  
Audible signals from the park assist  
system  
Cleaning the sensors  
The Park Assist system uses an intermittent  
tone that pulses faster as you come close to an  
object, and becomes constant when you are  
within approximately 1 ft (30 cm) of an object  
behind the vehicle. If the volume of another  
source from the audio system is high, this will  
be automatically lowered.  
Faults in the system  
If the information symbol illumi-  
nates and PARK ASSIST  
SERVICE REQUIRED is shown  
on the information display, this  
Park assist sensors  
indicates that the system is not  
functioning properly and has been disengaged.  
Consult a Volvo retailer or authorized Volvo  
service technician.  
The sensors must be cleaned regularly to  
ensure that they work properly. Clean them  
with water and a suitable car washing deter-  
gent.  
06  
CAUTION  
Ice and snow covering the sensors may cause  
incorrect warning signals.  
In certain circumstances, the park assist  
system may give unexpected warning sig-  
nals that can be caused by external sound  
sources that use the same ultrasound fre-  
quencies 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.  
NOTE  
If the sensors are obstructed by e.g., dirt,  
snow, or ice, this could result in false warn-  
ing signals from the park assist system.  
175  
* Option/accessory, for more information, see Introduction.  

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