Get Scenarios and driving recommendations -> Cold conditions Guide for Volvo EX40 SUV First Generation (2025-2026)

11. Scenarios and driving recommendations

The conditions you're experiencing sometimes affect how you can and should use your car. Knowing its

capabilities and how you can adapt to the situation can have a significant impact on the outcome. The

benefits range from avoiding outright hazards to getting the most out of your car's performance.

This section of the manual will cover specific driving scenarios. These include wading through water and driving on icy roads.

Exploring this section gives you a good idea of what features and practices can support you in demanding conditions.

11.1. Cold conditions

Driving in cold conditions can be tricky. It requires different preparations and a different way of driving than a

warmer climate does.

When driving in cold conditions, there are many things to take into consideration. From energy consumption and battery health

to a comfortable climate and different safety aspects. Be sure to familiarise yourself with what this way of driving entails, as

well as which laws and regulations may apply.

Visibility

In cold conditions, ice and condensation can obstruct visibility. Your car is equipped with defrosters, a heated rear windscreen

and heated wing mirrors to prevent that from happening.

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instances. For more information, refer to the first page for the complete disclaimer note.

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Warning

Scraping the windscreen

The windscreen area in front of the front-facing camera has its own heating to defrost and remove any build-up of snow

or ice. Do not use an ice scraper on this area as it can scratch the glass surface. Scratches or damage to the glass can in-

terfere with or limit the camera's detection capabilities.

Range

Your car's battery can be negatively affected by cold temperatures. When the car has a cold battery, its charge capacity, perform-

ance and range are reduced compared to normal conditions. You can avoid this by always charging your car while it's parked,

which can prove especially useful if you are parking in a cold climate.

When the battery warms up, for example during preconditioning of the car or when driving, its performance will return to

normal.

Maintenance

Note

Tyre pressure

As the temperature drops, the tyre pressure drops. Remember to check the tyre pressure regularly and adjust it as

needed.

Important

Cleaning in front of radars

If you find dirt, snow or ice, or if the car indicates that a radar is blocked, you should address it as soon as possible.

Always clean and clear a large area around the radars to make their full field of view available.

11.1.1. Winter driving recommendations

There are some things to keep in mind when driving in snow and on ice. Here are some tips and

recommendations for safer driving and improved car system effectiveness.

Preparations for driving in winter conditions

Cold weather is more demanding for the car's batteries and can lead to temporarily reduced performance. For better battery

performance, precondition your car before driving.

Use washer fluid with antifreeze to avoid ice forming in the washer fluid reservoir.

Ensure that the wiper blades are not frozen in place.

Volvo recommends that winter tyres are used when there's a risk of snow or ice.

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instances. For more information, refer to the first page for the complete disclaimer note.

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Note

In some regions, winter tyres are required by law. However, keep in mind that not all countries allow studded tyres.

Recommendations for driving in winter conditions

Snowy and icy roads require careful driving different to that of driving on dry roads. There are a number of precautions to take

that will help you drive more safely. For example:

Remove all snow from your car before you start driving, both for your own sake and for your fellow road users. Pay special

attention to the sensor areas, lights, roof and bonnet.

Avoid any sudden steering wheel movements, strong acceleration or hard braking as it can cause the car to lose grip.

Turn one pedal drive off.

Keep a safe distance from the car in front of you, as you are likely to require a longer braking distance.

Keep in mind that even if the sun melts the snow and ice, it can still be slippery.

Even when other roads aren't icy, bridges can still be dangerous.

Snow and ice can accumulate inside the mudguards, which can affect the steering. Check regularly and remove any snow,

ice or debris.

Braking capabilities can be negatively affected if snow and ice gather in the brake system. Check that the brakes work

properly on a regular basis. However, only do so in a safe and careful manner.

Sometimes, using snow chains can be a good idea. However, be sure to read the instructions on how to use them safely

and effectively.

Warning

Avoid parking on inclines during winter conditions. The tyres might lose traction, even if the parking brake is engaged.

You are always responsible for safe parking.

Tip

It's a good idea to practise driving on slippery surfaces under controlled conditions to learn how the car reacts. Visit a

skidpan if you have access to one.

11.2. Wading recommendations

When driving through water, there are important limitations to consider regarding the water's depth and the

driving speed.

The content of this manual represents the status of the user manual at the time of printing and may not be completely valid in future

instances. For more information, refer to the first page for the complete disclaimer note.

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Scenarios and driving recommendations -> Cold conditions for Your Volvo EX40 SUV First Generation (2025-2026)

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