tow VOLVO V90 1998 Owner's Manual

1998 Volvo S90
function) and the vehicle should
be driven to a Volvo retailer for
inspection.
The Anti-lock Braking System
(ABS) helps to improve vehicle
control (stopping and steering)
during severe braking conditions
by limiting brake lock-up. When
the system "senses" impending
lock-up, braking pressure is
automatically modulated in
order to help prevent lockup,
which could lead to a skid. brake application feels normal.
This should also be done after
washing or starting in very damp
or cold weather.
Trailer towing pg. 68
When preparing for
trailer towing, observe
the following:


l Volvo recommends the use of
Volvo trailer hitches which are
specially designed for the car.
For trailer weights exceeding
2000 lbs. (908 kg), use only a
trailer hitch offered as a
Genuine Volvo accessory.
NOTE: Models with automatic
transmission are equipped with
a transmission oil cooler as
standard equipment. This cooler
helps prevent overheating of the
transmission during times of
increased load, as when towing
a trailer.
l Maximum trailer weight
recommended by Volvo is:
Trailers without brakes: 1100
lbs (500kg)
Trailers with brakes: 2" ball -
3300 lbs (1500 kg), 1 7/8" ball -
2000 lbs (908 kg).
WARNING! Never connect a
trailer's hydraulic brake
system directly to the vehicle
brake system, nor a trailer's
lighting system directly to the
vehicle lighting system.
Consult your nearest
authorized Volvo retailer for
correct installation.


All Volvo models are equipped
with energy-absorbing shock-
mounted bumpers. Trailer hitch
installation should not interfere
with the proper operation of this
bumper system. Trailer towing
does not normally present any
particular problems, but take
into consideration:
l Recommended hitch tongue
load is 110 lbs (50 kgs) for
trailer weights below 2,650 lbs
(1,200 kgs) and 165 lbs (75 kgs)
for trailer weights above 2,650
lbs (1,200 kgs).
l For trailer weights between
2,650-3,300 lbs (1,200-1,500

l Avoid overload and other
abusive operation.
l Hauling a trailer affects
handling, durability, and
economy.
l It is necessary to balance
trailer brakes with the towing
vehicle brakes to provide a safe
stop (check and observe State/
Local regulations).
l Do not connect the trailer's
brake system directly to the
vehicle's brake system.
l More frequent vehicle
maintenance is required.
l Remove the ball and drawbar
assembly when the hitch is not
being used.
l Volvo recommends the use of
synthetic engine oil when towing
a trailer over long distances or in
mountainous areas.
l The trailer hitch tongue load
(110/165 lbs - 50/75 kg) is part
of the vehicle's capacity weight.
It may be necessary to reduce the
trunk/cargo area load when
file:///K|/ownersdocs/1998/1998_SV90/98S90_067.htm (2 of 5)12/30/2006 \
1:52:43 PM

1998 Volvo S90
Observe legal requirements of
the state in which the vehicles
are registered.
WARNING! Bumper-
attached trailer hitches must
not be used on Volvos, nor
should safety chains be
attached to the bumper.
Trailer hitches attaching to
the vehicle rear axle must
not be used. kgs) a top speed of 50 mph (80
km/h) should never be
exceeded.
l Increase tire pressure to
recommended full-load
pressure. See section "Wheels
and tires".
l Engine and transmission are
subject to increased loads.
Therefore, engine coolant
temperature should be closely
watched when driving in hot
climates or hilly terrain. Use
lower gear and turn off air
conditioner if temperature gauge
pointer enters the red range.
towing a trailer to ensure that the
max. permissible axle load or
gross vehicle weight are not
exceeded.

NOTE: Refer to section
"Automatic transmission" for
additional trailer hauling tips.
Winter driving pg. 69
Cold weather precautions
l If you wish to check your car before the
approach of cold weather, the following advice is
worth noting:
Make sure that the engine coolant contains at least
50 percent antifreeze: that is, 5.3 qts. (5 liters)
Volvo Genuine Coolant/Antifreeze. 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 may not be
mixed.
l 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.
l The viscosity of the engine oil is important. Oil
with low viscosity (thinner oil) improves cold-
weather starting as well as decreasing fuel
consumption while the engine is warming up. For
winter use, 5W-30 oil, particularly the synthetic
type, is recommended.
Be sure to use good quality oil but do not use this

l The Volvo Washer Solvent should be diluted as
follows:
Down to 14°F (-10°C): 1 part anti-freeze and 4
parts water
Down to 5°F (-15°C): 1 part anti-freeze and 3
parts water
Down to 0°F (-18°C): 1 part anti-freeze and 2
parts water
Down to -18°F (-28°): 1 part anti-freeze and 1
part water
l Use lock spray or grease in the locks.

NOTE: Avoid the use of de-icing spray as they
can cause damage to the locks.

Automatic differential lock (certain
models)


The differential automatically locks at speed
between 3 - 25 mph (5 - 40 km/h) if either of the
drive wheels begins to lose traction. The
differential lock improves power distribution to
the drive wheels in slippery conditions, shifting
power to the wheel with best traction. It also
file:///K|/ownersdocs/1998/1998_SV90/98S90_067.htm (3 of 5)12/30/2006 \
1:52:43 PM

1998 Volvo S90
Chapter 6 - (cont.)
Replacing bulbs
pg. 81


Replacing bulbs

The method for replacement of bulbs in
the various lighting units is shown on the
following pages. Make sure when
installing bulbs, that the guide pin on the
socket fits into its corresponding recess.
When installing Halogen bulbs, do not
touch the glass with your fingers because
grease, oil or any other impurities can be
carbonized onto the bulb and damage the
reflector.
Use bulbs of correct type and voltage.
Failure to do so could cause the bulb
failure warning light to activate.

NOTE: Turn the ignition and light
switch off before replacing any bulbs.


Headlights (high/low beams)

1. Press the protruding tabs on the plastic
cover and pull out towards the fender.
2. Turn the bulb and connector 1/4 turn
counterclockwise and remove.
3. Remove the connector from the bulb.
4. Press a new bulb into the connector
without touching the bulb itself.
5. Reinsert the bulb into the headlight
housing and turn 1/4 turn clockwise until
the unit seats properly.
6. Reinstall the plastic cover.

Bulb Power US Bulb No.
High beam 70W HB3/9005
Low beam 60W HB4/9006

Headlight adjustment


The height of the headlight beams can be
adjusted according to vehicle load. The
headlights should be re-aimed if heavy
loads are carried in the trunk/cargo area or
rear seat, or when towing a trailer.
To adjust the headlights:
Park the car on a level surface and open
the hood.
The headlights are equipped with a level
which can be seen by looking through the
clear "window" on the top of the headlight
lens.
Turn the height adjustment knob (A) until
the bubble in the level aligns with within
the marking lines on the level.

Lateral headlight adjustment (B) should
only be carried out by an authorized
Volvo retailer. This setting should be
preset to "0".
Replacing bulbs pg. 82
file:///K|/ownersdocs/1998/1998_SV90/98S90_081.htm (1 of 6)12/30/2006 \
1:52:45 PM

1998 Volvo S90
High-mounted brake light

To remove: (Sedans)
Turn off ignition.
Depress catch with a screwdriver. Pull
cover upward to remove it.
To remove: (Wagons)
Turn off ignition.
Grasp the cover with both hands and pull
it towards you.

Bulb Power CP(W) Socket US Bulb No.
High-mounted brake light 32(21) BA15s
1156 Depress catches and fit new bulb.

To fit:
Fit the reflector and check that the light
works.

4-door models
Press the cover into position, noting the
position of the alignment pin at the top.

Wagons
Align the catches and press the cover into
position.

Replacing bulbs pg. 87

Interior light and reading lights

Take hold of the front section of the light
as shown and pull straight down.

Press lens out from inside and replace
bulb. Check operation before reinstalling
lamp housing.

NOTE:
The wiring should not be pinched when
the lamp housing is reinstalled.


Bulb Power Socket
Interior light 10 W SV 8.5
Reading light 5 W W2.1x9.5d

Reading lamps, rear

The bulb in the adjustable reading lamps
can be changed as follows: insert a
screwdriver as shown and twist off the
lamp. Withdraw the bulb and fit a new one.
Replacing bulbs pg. 88
file:///K|/ownersdocs/1998/1998_SV90/98S90_081.htm (5 of 6)12/30/2006 \
1:52:45 PM

1998 Volvo S90
Cleaning the
outside of the
windshield and
wiper blades


If the windshield/tailgate is
not clear after using the
wiper(s) or if the blade
chatters when running, wax
or other material may be on
the blade or on the surface
of the glass.
Clean the glass with a
suitable cleaning agent.
The glass is clean if beads
do not form when you rinse
it with water.

Tailgate wiper (wagons)

1. Pull out the wiper arm. Press the lock
knob outwards.
2. Push the wiper inwards towards the
middle and remove. Fit the new wiper blade
in the reverse order to the above
instructions.




Contents | Top of Page
file:///K|/ownersdocs/1998/1998_SV90/98S90_089.htm (9 of 9)12/30/2006 \
1:52:46 PM

1998 Volvo S90
Chapter 7 - Car care
pg. 97
Car care
Car care includes not only maintaining the appearance of the car, but al\
so
protecting the car exterior from the effects of air pollution, rain and \
mud.
The paintwork should also be touched up immediately, if damaged, to prev\
ent rust
formation.
Cleaning the upholstery pg. 98

Paintwork damage pg. 99
Washing the car pg. 100
Cleaning the upholstery
pg. 98
Cleaning the upholstery

The fabric can be cleaned with soapy water or a
detergent. For more difficult spots caused by oil,
ice cream, shoe polish, grease, etc., use a clothing/
clothing fabric stain remover.

The plastic in the upholstery can be washed with
soapy water or a mild detergent.

Leather upholstery/suede-like upholstery
(alcantera) can be cleaned with a soft cloth and
mild soap solution. For more difficult spots,
Volvo offers a leather care kit.

On no account must gasoline, naphtha or
similar cleaning agents be used on the plastic
or the leather since these can cause damage.

Cleaning the seat belts

Clean only with lukewarm water and mild soap
solution.
Bear in mind

l Take extra care when removing stains such as
ink or lipstick since the coloring can spread.
l Use solvents sparingly. Too much solvent can
damage the seat padding.
l Start from the outside of the stain and work
toward the center.
file:///K|/ownersdocs/1998/1998_SV90/98S90_097.htm (1 of 6)12/30/2006 \
1:52:47 PM

1998 Volvo S90
components or toward the rear side
of the engine.
Automatic car washing, Polishing and waxing, Chromed parts pg. 101
Automatic washing - simple and
quick


An automatic wash is a simple and quick way to
clean your car, but it is worth remembering that it
may not be as thorough as when you go over the
with sponge and water. Keeping the underbody
clean is most important, especially in the winter.
Some automatic washers do not have the facilities
for washing the underbody.

Before driving into an automatic wash, make sure
that the side-view mirrors, auxiliary lamps, etc.,
are secure, otherwise there is risk of the machine
dislodging them. You should also lower the
antenna.

We recommend that you do not wash your car in
an automatic wash during the first six months
(because the paint will not have hardened
sufficiently).
Polishing and waxing

Normally, polishing is not required during the
first year after delivery, however, waxing may be
beneficial.

Before applying polish or wax the car must be
washed and dried. Tar spots can be removed with
kerosene or tar remover. Difficult spots may
require a fine rubbing compound.

After polishing use liquid or paste wax.

Several commercially-available products contain
both polish and wax. Waxing alone does not
substitute for polishing of a dull surface.

Awide range of polymer-based car waxes can be
purchased today. The waxes are easy to use and
produce a long-lasting, high-gloss finish that
protects the bodywork against oxidation, road dirt
and fading.

Chromed parts

Chromium-plated and anodized parts should be
washed with clean water as soon as they become
dirty. This is particularly important if you drive on
gravel roads or on roads where salt is used during
the winter. After the car has been washed, apply
wax or an anti-rust preparation.

Stains on chrome trim can be removed with
commercially-available chrome cleaner. Do not
use abrasive compounds or steel wool.


file:///K|/ownersdocs/1998/1998_SV90/98S90_097.htm (5 of 6)12/30/2006 \
1:52:47 PM

1998 Volvo S90


If you change the engine oil and filter
yourself, your Volvo retailer can assist you
in disposing of the used oil. Engine oil can
be harmful to your skin - gloves should
worn when performing this work.
Engine oil pg. 109
Oil quality

Meeting API specification SG, SG/CD, SH or
Energy Conserving (EC) II
For best fuel economy and engine protection
consult with your authorized Volvo retailer for
recommended oils. Oils with a different quality
rating may not provide adequate engine
protection.

Viscosity (stable ambient
temperatures):




Do not use oils with other viscosity ratings. The
use of incorrect viscosity oil can shorten engine
life.
Volvo recommends the use of energy-conserving
oils. Look for the API label. Synthetic oils
complying with oil quality requirements are
recommended for: driving in areas of sustained
temperature extremes (hot or cold), when towing
a trailer over long distances or for prolonged
driving in mountainous areas.
Extra oil additives must not be used unless
advised by an authorized Volvo retailer.

NOTE: SAE 15W/40 should only be used in


Changing oil and oil filter

Oil and oil filter changes should be made as
specified in the following table:

If driving conditions
include: Then the correct oil/oil
filter change interval
is:
l Extended periods of
idling and/or low-
speeds operation
l Frequent short trips
(less than 7 miles = 11
km)
l Extended periods of
driving in dusty and/or
sandy areas
l Trailer towing
l Driving in
mountainous areas EVERY 6 MONTHS
OR EVERY
5,000 miles= 8,000 km
WHICHEVER
COMES FIRST
l Primarily highway
driving
l Frequent trips of
longer than 7 miles =
11 km EVERY 12 MONTHS
OR EVERY
10,000 miles = 16,000
km
WHICHEVER
COMES FIRST
file:///K|/ownersdocs/1998/1998_SV90/98S90_108.htm (2 of 6)12/30/2006 \
1:52:49 PM

1998 Volvo S90
extreme operating conditions such as trailer
towing in sustained ambient temperatures over
104° F (40° C). However, SAE 10W-30 synthetic
oil would be a better alternative in such
conditions.
SAE 15W-40 should not be used under normal
operating conditions.
American Petroleum Institute
(API) labels. These labels certify
the oil conforms to the applicable
standards and specifications of
the API.
Servicing pg. 110
Torque exhaust and
intake manifold nuts


A loose manifold could alter air/
fuel ratio and cause an increase
in emissions and/or poor
driveability.

Air cleaner

Replace the air cleaner cartridge
with a new one every 30,000
miles (48,000 km). The
cartridge should be replaced
more often when driving under
dirty and dusty conditions, The
filter cannot be cleaned and,
therefore, should always be
replaced with a new one.

Vacuum fittings, hoses
and connections


Unstable idle, misfiring, or poor
emission control is often caused
by leaking vacuum hoses or
connections. Check hoses and
connections on distributor
vacuum unit, connections on
heater control servo systems and
hydraulic brake servo.
Fuel system cap, tank
and lines, and
connections


The effectiveness of the fuel
system to contain hydrocarbons
is dependent largely on a
leakfree system. Check for
proper sealing of gasoline filler
cap which contains "O" ring-
type seals. Check all
evaporative hoses in vehicle for
tightness. Check fuel lines under
vehicle and repair if necessary.

Fuel (line) filter

The fuel line filter is located
next to the fuel pump. This filter
should be replaced every
100,000 miles (160,000 km).
The filter is replaced as one
complete unit.
Replace more frequently if
contaminated fuel is introduced
into the tank (or if there is
reason to suspect that this has
occurred).

Timing belt

WARNING!
The distributor ignition
system operates at very high
voltages. Special safety
precautions must be followed
to prevent injury.
Always turn the ignition off
when:
l Replacing distributor
ignition components e.g.
plugs, coil, etc.
l Do not touch any part of
the distributor ignition system
while the engine is running.
This may result in unintended
movements and body injury.


Replacing spark plugs

The spark plugs should be
changed every 30,000 miles
(48,000 km). However, city
driving or fast highway driving
may necessitate changing after
15,000 miles (24,000 km) of
driving. When installing new
plugs, be sure to fit the right type
file:///K|/ownersdocs/1998/1998_SV90/98S90_108.htm (3 of 6)12/30/2006 \
1:52:49 PM

1998 Volvo S90
Oil quality

Meeting API specification SG, SG/CD, SH or
Energy Conserving (EC) II
For best fuel economy and engine protection,
consult with your authorized Volvo retailer for
recommended oils. Oil with a different quality
rating may not provide adequate engine
protection.
Synthetic oils complying with oil quality
requirements are recommended for: driving in
areas of sustained temperature extremes (hot or
cold), when towing a trailer over long distances or
for prolonged driving in mountainous areas.
Extra oil additives must not be used unless
advised by an authorized Volvo retailer.
NOTE:SAE 15W/40 should only be used in
extreme operating conditions such as trailer
towing in sustained ambient temperatures over
104° F (40° C). However, SAE 10W-30 synthetic
oil would be a better alternative in such
conditions.
SAE 15W-40 should not be used under normal
operating conditions.

Capacity (including filter): 5.9 US qts = 5.75
liters
Automatic transmission
fluid Quality:ATF Dexron
IIE/III and Mercon
Capacity:7.9 US qts. (7.5 liters)
Rear axle oil Quality: API-GL-5
(MIL-L-2105 C or D)
SAE 80W-90Capacity:1.4 US qts (1.3 liters) sedans/
wagons
Power steering fluid Quality: ATF F,GCapacity:1.05 US qts. (1.0 liters)
Brake fluid Brake fluid type:DOT 4
+Capacity: 0.63 US qt. (0.6 liter)

All specifications are subject to change without notice.
Specifications pg. 123
file:///K|/ownersdocs/1998/1998_SV90/98S90_121.htm (2 of 4)12/30/2006 \
1:52:50 PM