VOLVO C70 1998 User Guide
Manufacturer: VOLVO, Model Year: 1998, Model line: C70, Model: VOLVO C70 1998Pages: 38, PDF Size: 0.71 MB
Page 11 of 38
Chapter 3 - Body and interior
pg. 39 Body and interior
Body and interior
The seats, sun roof, mirrors, etc. are described on the following pages.
Storage compartments
40
Sun roof41
Keys, doors and locks42
Remote keyless entry system43
Alarm44
Front seats46
Rear/side view mirrors48
Interior lights, Vanity mirrors49
Long load storage50
Hood51
Opening the trunk52
Trunk light, Spare tire, Jack53
Securing cargo, Avoiding battery drain54
pg. 40 Storage compartments
1 Glove compartment
2 Coin holder
3 Compartment in door
4 Pocket on rear of front seat
5 Compartment between front seats/Cup holder
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WARNING! Packages on the rear window shelf can obscure vision and may become dangerous projectiles in the
event of a sudden stop or an accident.
pg. 41 Sun roof (option)
Sliding sun roof
Electrically-operated sun roof
The switch for operating the sun roof is located on the instrument panel. The starting (ignition) key must first be turned
to the drive position (position II). The sun roof is also equipped with a one -touch, AUTO-open function.
AUTO-open: Press the lower section of the switch once to automatically open the sun roof. The AUTO-open
function can be stopped at any time by pressing the switch.
To close the sun roof: Depress the upper section of the switch until the sun roof has closed completely.
Sun visor
To open the rear edge of the sun roof (ventilation position) : With the sun roof closed, depress the upper section
of the switch. To close, depress the lower section of the switch until the sun roof has closed completely.
To slide open the sun roof: Depress the lower section of the switch until the sun roof has opened to the position
you prefer or hold the switch until the sun roof reaches the "comfort position"*. Depress the lower section of the
switch again to open the sun roof completely.
* A position where the sun roof is not quite fully open. This position helps alleviate "rumbling" wind noise.
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Sun visor: The sun roof also features a sliding sun visor. The visor slides back automatically when the sun roof is
opened and also slides back slightly when the sun roof is opened to the ventilation position. The visor must be closed
manually.
CAUTION: Do not close the sun visor when the sun roof is in the ventilation position as this could damage the
mechanism.
NOTE:
The electrically -operated sun roof has an overload protecting circuit breaker (fuse no. 37) which is activated when an
object blocks the sun roof. Should this occur, remove the object and wait 20 seconds for the circuit breaker to reset.
The sun roof should then function normally. Also check fuse no. 35.
WARNING! The sun roof must never be obstructed in any way when in operation.
pg. 42 Keys, doors and locks
Master key
This key operates all locks (ignition switch/steering wheel lock, driver's door, trunk and glove compartment).
Service key
This key operates the driver's door and the ignition switch/steering wheel lock.
NOTE:
As an added anti-theft measure, new keys have been developed which may take slightly longer to copy or replace if
the original keys are misplaced. Duplicate keys may be ordered from your Volvo retailer.
The key number codes are stamped on a separate tag supplied with the keys. This tag should be separated from the
key ring and kept in a safe place.
Doors and locks
Your car is equipped with a central locking system.
The key, used on the driver's door, the remote control, or central locking button, will lock/unlock both doors, and the
trunk.
Turn the key once to unlock the driver's door only.
Turn the key again (within 10 seconds) to unlock both doors and the trunk.
One turn with the key towards lock in the drivers door locks both doors and the trunk.
Use the switch on the front door armrests to lock/unlock the car from the inside.
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Check the action of the buttons on the other door to verify its function (lock/unlock).
WARNING! The doors should not be locked while driving. In case of an accident, this may hinder rapid access to
the occupants of the vehicle.
NOTE: If a door is not closed completely, the courtesy lights will stay on and a chime will sound until the door is
closed.
Contents | Top of Page
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Chapter 4 - Starting and driving
pg. 55 Starting and driving
Starting and driving
This section on starting and driving contains items such as starting the engine, operating the gear selector, towing,
trailers, etc.
Break-in period
56
Fuel requirements, Refueling56-57
Driving economy58
Starting the engine59
Manual transmission60
Automatic transmission61
Points to remember64
Emergency towing66
Vehicle towing information67
Jump starting68
Three-way catalytic converter69
Brake system, ABS70
Trailer towing71
Winter driving72
Long distance trips73
pg. 56 Break-in period, Fuel requirements
A new car should be broken -in
Refrain from utilizing your car's full driving potential during the first 1,200 miles (2,000 km) including the "kick -
down" function (automatic transmission).
NOTE - 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 service is performed, the oil consumption could be higher than normal. For this reason, it is especially
important to check the oil every time you refuel your car during this period. See page 114
.
In general, the rate of oil consumption depends on such factors as: engine temperature, length of trip, driving
conditions, oil viscosity and quality, engine speed and acceleration/deceleration.
Checking your engine oil level each time the car is refueled is one of the most important items you can perform to
help keep your car in good running order.
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Manual transmission
The following speeds should not be exceeded during the break-in period: Up to 600 miles
(1000 km)600 - 1,200 miles
(1000 - 2000 km)
1st gear 20 mph (30 km/h)25 mph (40 km/h)
2nd gear 30 mph (50 km/h)40 mph (70 km/h)
3rd gear 45 mph (80 km/h)65 mph (100 km/h)
4th gear 70 mph (110 km/h)80 mph (130 km/h)
5th gear/overdrive 80 mph (130 km/h)95 mph (150 km/h)
Posted speed limits should not be exceeded.
Deposit control gasoline (detergent additives)
Volvo recommends the use of gasoline containing deposit control additives. These additives have shown to be efficient
in keeping injectors and intake valves clean. Consistent use of deposit control gasolines will help ensure good
driveability and fuel economy. If you are not sure whether the gasoline contains deposit control additives, check with
the service station operator.
Unleaded Fuel
Each Volvo has a three-way catalytic converter and must use only unleaded gasoline. U.S. and Canadian regulations
require that pumps delivering unleaded gasoline be labeled "UNLEADED". Only these pumps have nozzles which fit
your car's filler inlet. It is unlawful to dispense leaded fuel into a vehicle labeled "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 effectiveness 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, possibly resulting in
emission test failure for misfueled 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 affected,
and the Malfunction Indicator Lamp located on your instrument panel may light. If this occurs, please return your
vehicle to an authorized Volvo retailer for service.
pg. 57 Fuel requirements, Refueling
Octane Rating
Volvo engines are designed for optimum performance on unleaded premium gasoline with an octane rating. AKI of 91,
or above. AKI (ANTI KNOCK INDEX) is an average of the Research Octane Number, RON, and the Motor Octane
Number, MON, (RON + MON/ 2).
The minimum octane requirement is AKI 87 (RON 91).
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 indicating use of alcohol 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 seasonal air quality restrictions, some states require the use of "oxygenated" fuel in certain areas.
Volvo allows the use of the following "oxygenated fuels; however, the octane ratings listed on this page must still be
met.
Alcohol — Ethanol
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Fuels 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.
Refueling
The fuel filler cap is located inside the fuel tank cover on the right rear fender.
NOTE: The fuel tank cover is locked and must be popped open using the control on the driver's door (see page 37).
Open fuel filler cap slowly during hot weather conditions.
When filling, hang the cap on the special bracket on the inside of the fuel tank cover.
NOTE: Turn the ignition off or to position I when refueling. If the ignition is on, an incorrect reading could occur in
the fuel gauge (low fuel level will be indicated).
After filling the tank, install the cap and turn until a "click" is heard.
The fuel tank is designed to hold approximately 18.4 US gal. (70 liters) with sufficient volume left over to
accommodate possible expansion of the fuel in hot weather. Be aware that the "usable" tank will be somewhat less than
the specified maximum. When the fuel level is low, such factors as ambient temperature, the fuel's "vapor pressure"
characteristics, and terrain can affect the fuel pumps' ability to supply the engine with an adequate supply of fuel.
Therefore, it is advisable to refuel as soon as possible when the needle nears the red zone, or when the fuel warning
light comes on.
CAUTION:
Do not refuel with the engine running. After refueling, close the fuel filler cap by turning it clockwise until it
clicks into place.
Allow for fuel expansion by not overfilling the tank. Overfilling could also cause damage to the emission control
systems.
NOTE: If the fuel filler cap is not closed tightly or if the engine is running when the car is refueled, the Malfunction
Indicator Lamp may indicate a fault. Use only Volvo original or approved fuel filler caps.
CAUTION: Avoid spilling gasoline during refueling. Gasolines containing alcohol can cause damage to painted
surfaces, which may not be covered under the New Vehicle Limited Warranty.
Do not use gasoline containing methanol (methyl alcohol, wood alcohol). This practice can result in vehicle
performance deterioration and can damage critical parts in the fuel system. Such damage may not be covered under
the New Vehicle Limited Warranty.
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Chapter 5 - Wheels and tires
pg. 75 Wheels and tires
Wheels and tires
The handling and riding comfort of the vehicle is dependent on the inflation pressure and the type of tires fitted. Read
the following pages carefully.
General information, Wear indicator, Tire economy, Flat spots
76
Snow chains, Winter tires77
Inflation pressure78
Uniform tire quality grading79
pg. 76 Wheels and tires
General information
Your vehicle is equipped with tires according to the tire information label located on the rear facing side of the
right front door.
The following is an example of a tire designation code 225/50R16:
225 = tire width in mm.
50 = tire profile. This is the relationship (in percent) between the section height and the width of the tire.
R = radial tires.
16 = diameter in inches.
The tires have good road holding characteristics and offer good handling on dry and wet surfaces. It should be noted
however that the tires have been developed to give these features on snow/ice-free surfaces. Certain models are
equipped with "all-season" tires, which provide a somewhat higher degree of winter roadholding on slippery
surfaces than tires without the "all-season" rating. However, for optimum road holding on icy or snow covered
roads - we recommend suitable winter tires on all four wheels. When replacing tires, be sure that the new tires are
the same size designation, type (radial) and preferably from the same manufacturer, on all four wheels. Otherwise there
is a risk of altering the car's road-holding and handling characteristics.
NOTE: When storing wheel/tire assemblies (e.g. winter tires and wheels), either stand the assemblies upright or
suspend them off the ground. Laying wheel/tire assemblies on their sides for prolonged periods can cause wheel and/or
tire damage.
Wear indicator
The tires have a so-called "wear indicator" in the form of a number of narrow strips running across or parallel to the
tread. When approx. 1/16" (1.6 mm) is left on the tread, these strips show up and indicate that the tire should be
replaced.
Tires with less than 1/16" (1.6 mm) tread have a very poor grip in rain or snow.
When replacing worn tires, it is recommended that the tire be identical in type (radial) and size as the one being
replaced. Using a tire of the same make (manufacturer) will prevent alteration of the driving characteristics of the
vehicle.
To improve tire economy:
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Maintain correct tire pressure.
Drive smoothly: avoid fast starts, hard braking and tire screeching.
Tire wear increases with speed.
Correct front wheel alignment is very important.
Unbalanced wheels impair tire economy and driving comfort.
If the wheels are rotated, they should be kept on the same side of the car so that they revolve in the same direction
as prior to rotation.
Hitting curbs or potholes can damage the tires and/or wheels permanently.
Flat spots
All tires become warm during use. After cooling, when the vehicle is parked, the tires have a tendency to distort
slightly, forming flat spots. These flat spots can cause vibrations similar to the vibrations caused by unbalanced wheels.
They do, however, disappear when the tire warms up. The degree to which the flat spots form depends on the type of
cord used in the tire. Remember that, in cold weather, it takes longer for the tire to warm up and consequently longer
for the flat spot to disappear.
CAUTION: The car must not be driven with wheels of different dimensions. The use of different size wheels can
seriously damage your car's transmission.
pg. 77 Wheels and tires (cont.)
Snow chains
Snow tire chains can be used on your Volvo with the following restrictions:
Snow chains should be installed on front wheels only. Use only Volvo approved snow chains.
Snow chains may be mounted on tire dimension 195/65R15. Tire dimension 205/55R16 requires a special type of
snow chain. Consult your Volvo retailer. Snow chains may not be used on 205/55R16 tires.
If accessory, aftermarket or "custom" tires and wheels are installed and are of a size different than the original tires
and wheels, chains in some cases CANNOT be used. Snow chains cannot be used on those turbo-charged models fitted
with all-season tires 225/50R16 or 225/45R17 or 225/40R18. Sufficient clearances between chains and brakes,
suspension and body components must be maintained.
Some strap -on type chains will interfere with brake components and therefore CANNOT be used.
Consult your Volvo retailer for additional snow chain information.
CAUTION:
Check local regulations regarding the use of snow chains before installing.
Always follow the chains manufacturer's installation instructions carefully. Install chains as tightly as possible and
re-tighten periodically.
Never exceed the chain manufacture's specified maximum speed limit. (Under no circumstances should that limit
be higher than 30 mph (45 km/h).
Avoid bumps, holes or sharp turns when driving with snow chains.
The handling of the vehicle can be adversely affected when driving with chains. Avoid fast or sharp turns as well
as locked wheel braking.
Snow tires, studded tires *
Tires for winter use:
Owners who live in or regularly commute through areas with sustained periods of snow or icy driving
conditions are strongly advised to fit suitable winter tires to help retain the highest degree of traction.
It is important to install winter tires on all four wheels to help retain traction during cornering, braking and
accelerating. Failure to do so could reduce traction to an unsafe level or adversely affect handling. Do not mix tires of
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different design as this could also negatively affect overall tire road grip. Volvo recommends 195/65 R15 winter tires
on 15" steel wheels on all C70 models including those equipped with 16", 17" or 18" wheels.
Winter tires wear more quickly on dry roads in warm weather. They should be removed when the winter driving
season has ended.
Studded tires should be run-in 300-600 miles (500-1000 km) during which the car should be driven as smoothly as
possible to give the studs the opportunity to seat properly in the tires. The car tires should have the same rotational
direction throughout their entire lifetime. In other words, if you wish to rotate the wheels, make sure that the same
wheels are always on the same side of the car.
NOTE: Please consult state or local regulations restricting the use of studded winter tires before installing such tires.
* Where permitted
pg. 78 Wheels and tires (cont.)
Checking and correcting tire pressure
Check the tire pressure when refueling.
The tire pressure should be corrected only when the tires are cold.
With warm tires, correct only when the pressure is too low. The tire temperature rises after driving just a few miles.
Vehicle Loading
The tires on your Volvo will perform to specifications at all normal loads when inflated as recommended on the tire
information label* located on the rear facing edge of the passenger's door. This label lists both the tire and vehicle
design limits.
Do not load your car beyond the load limits indicated.
* Please note that the tire information label indicates pressures for both comfort and fuel economy.
Tire pressure label
pg. 79 Wheels and tires (cont.)
Uniform tire quality grading
ALL PASSENGER CAR TIRES MUST CONFORM TO FEDERAL SAFETY REQUIREMENTS IN
ADDITION TO THESE GRADES
TREADWEAR
The treadwear grade is a comparative rating based on the wear rate of the tire when tested under controlled conditions
on a specified government test course. For example, a tire graded at 150 would wear one and one half (1 1/2) times as
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