fuel VOLVO C70 1999 Owners Manual

are all important considerations.
In production, Volvo has partly or completely phased out several chemicals including freons, lead chromates,
naphtanates, asbestos, mercury and cadmium; and reduced the amount of chemicals used in our plants 50% since 1991.
In use, Volvo was the first in the world to introduce into production a three-way catalytic converter with a Lambda
sond, now called oxygen sensor, in 1976. The current version of this highly efficient system reduces emissions of
harmful substances (CO, HC, NOx) from the exhaust pipe by approximately 95% and the search to eliminate the
remaining emissions continues. Volvo is the only automobile manufacturer to offer CFC-free retrofit kits for the air
conditioning system for all models back to the M/Y 1975 240. Advanced electronic engine controls, refined
purification systems and cleaner fuels are bringing us closer to our goal.
After Volvo cars and parts have fulfilled their use, recycling is the next critical step in completing the life cycle. The
metal content is about 75% of the total weight of the car, which makes the car among the most recycled industrial
products. In order to have efficient and well controlled recycling, many Volvo variants have printed dismantling
manuals indication the weight and material of individual components. For Volvo, all homogeneous plastic parts
weighing more than 1.7 oz. (50 grams)are marked with international symbols that indicate how the component is to be
sorted for recycling.
In addition to continuous environmental refinement of conventional gasoline-powered internal combustion engines,
Volvo is actively looking at advanced technology alternative-fuel vehicles.
When you drive a Volvo, you become our partner in the work to lessen the car's impact on the environment.
To reduce your vehicle's environmental impact, you can:
Maintain proper air pressure in your tires. Tests have shown decreased fuel economy with improperly inflated
tires
Follow the recommended maintenance schedule
Drive at a constant speed
See an authorized Volvo retailer as soon as possible for inspection if the check engine (malfunction indicator)
lamp illuminates, or stays on after the vehicle has started
Properly dispose of any vehicle related waste such as used motor oil, used batteries, brake pads, etc.
When cleaning your car, use Volvo's own car care products, all of which have systematically been adapted to
the environment.
Contents
Important
Before you operate your car for the first time, please familiarize yourself with the BREAK-IN information on
page 56. You should also be familiar with the information in the first three chapters of this manual.
Information contained in the balance of the manual is extremely useful and should be studied after operating
the vehicle for the first time.
This manual is structured so that it can be used for reference. It should thus be kept in the car for ready access.
Do not export your Volvo to another country before investigating the country's applicable safety and exhaust
emission requirements. In some cases it may be difficult or impossible to comply with these requirements.
Modifications to the emission control system(s) may render your Volvo not certifiable for legal operation in the
U.S., Canada or other countries.
All information, illustrations and specifications contained in this manual are based on the latest product information
available at the time of publication. Volvo reserves the right to make model changes at any time, or to change
specifications or design, without notice and without incurring obligation.
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CAUTION: Certain models have reduced ground clearance due to the design of the front spoiler. Please observe
caution when e.g., driving onto garage hoists, through drifted snow or when other road debris is encountered, or
when parking near curbs
©1998 Volvo Cars of North America Inc.
Shiftlock (automatic transmission only)
When your car is parked, the gear selector is locked in the (P)ark position. To release the selector from this position,
turn the ignition key to position II (or start the engine), depress the brake pedal, press the button on the front side of the
gear selector and move the selector from (P)ark.
If it is necessary to manually override the shiftlock system:
Turn the starting (ignition) key to position I
Press firmly on the "SHIFTLOCK OVERRIDE" button located near the base of the gear selector.
While holding the override button down, press the button on the front of the gear selector.
Move the gear selector from the ( P)ark position.
Keylock (automatic transmission only)
This means that when you switch off the ignition, the gear selector must be in the (P)ark position before the starting
(ignition) key can be removed from the ignition switch.
Clutch interlock (manual transmission only)
The clutch must be fully depressed before you can start you car. If the clutch is not depressed, it will not be possible to
start the engine.
Anti -lock Brake System (ABS)
The ABS system in your car performs a self -diagnostic test when the vehicle first reaches the speed of approximately
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.
Fuel tank cover
The fuel tank cover is locked and must be popped open using the control on the driver's door.
Contents
Chapter 1 - Occupant safety1
Chapter 2 - Instruments, switches and controls15
Chapter 3 - Body and interior39
Chapter 4 - Starting and driving55
Chapter 5 - Wheels and tires75
Chapter 6 - In case of an emergency81
Chapter 7 - Car care99
Chapter 8 - Volvo Service105
Chapter 9 - Specifications123
Chapter 10 - Audio systems131
Index188
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8 Instruments14-15
9 Traction control system (optional)23
10 Trip computer (optional)
26-28
11 Electrically operated sun roof (optional)
41
12 Rear window demister/heated door mirrors
23
13 Air mix
33
14 Air vents
33
15 Passenger side air bag (SRS) hatch
4-6
16 Air vents
33
17 Hood release
51
18 Turn signals, high/low beams
20
Cruise control
29
19 Adjustable steering wheel
32
20 Windshield wiper/washer
21
21 Heated front seats (optional)
30
22 Auxiliary socket
31
23 Audio systems
131
24 Heating and ventilation controls
33-35
25 Hazard warning flashers
23
26 Ashtray
31
27 Coin holder
28 Shiftlock release button (automatic transmission only)
97
29 Gear selector shift positions
60-62
30 Transmission mode selectors
62
31 Parking brake
30
32 Horn/SRS
4-6
33 Trunk open control
52
34 Power window controls
36
35 Power mirror controls
48
36 Fuel tank open control
37
37 Central locking button
36
Some of the items above are available on certain models only.
pg. 16 Instruments
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1 Fuel gauge
The fuel tank holds approximately 17.9 US gals. (68 liters). When the warning light comes on there is approximately
1.8 US gals. (8 liters) of fuel remaining. See "Refueling" for further information.

2 Temperature gauge
Do not drive the car with the pointer in the red range. The pointer should be approximately midway on the gauge
face when driving. If the pointer approaches the red range repeatedly, check coolant level. See page 130
.
3 Speedometer
4 Clock, ambient temperature sensor, trip computer (certain models)
5 Odometer
6 Trip odometer
Used for measuring shorter distances. The last digit indicates 1/10 mile/kilometer.
7 Trip odometer reset button
8 Tachometer
Reads thousands of engine rpm.

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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 system70-71
Trailer towing72
Winter driving73
Long distance trips74
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 tank is designed to hold approximately 17.9 US gal. (68 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 "Reid 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.
Fuel tank cover
The fuel tank cover (on the right rear fender) is locked and must be popped open using the control on the driver's door.
Open fuel filler cap slowly during hot weather conditions.
CAUTION:
Do not refuel with the engine running. Turn the ignition off or to position I. If the ignition is on, an incorrect
reading could occur in the fuel gauge.
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.
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.
* 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. However, your vehicle's performance will not be affected. Use only Volvo
original or approved fuel filler caps.

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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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CAUTION: Correct tightening torque on wheel bolts must be observed. The wheel bolts should never be greased or
lubricated. The extended, chromed wheel bolts must not be used with steel rims, as they make it impossible to fit the
hub caps.
pg. 84 Spare tire
Temporary Spare (certain models)
The spare tire of your car is what is called a "Temporary Spare". It has the following designation: T125/90R15.
Recommended tire pressure (see decal on fuel filler flap) should be maintained irrespective of which position on the
car the Temporary Spare tire is used on.
In the event of damage to this tire a new one can be purchased from your Volvo retailer.
CAUTION: The car must not be driven with wheels of different dimensions or with a spare tire other than the one
that came with the car. The use of different size wheels can seriously damage your car's transmission.
WARNING!
Current legislation prohibits the use of the "Temporary Spare" tire other than as a temporary replacement for a
punctured tire. In other words, it must be replaced as soon as possible by a standard tire. Roadholding, etc., may be
affected with the "Temporary Spare" in use. Do not, therefore, exceed 50 mph (80 km/h).

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Chapter 8 - Volvo Service
pg. 105 Volvo Service
Service - an investment

An investment which will pay dividends in the form of improved reliability, durability, and resale value.
Label information
106
Maintenance service, Warranty107
Maintenance schedule108-109
Servicing110-111
Fuel/emissions systems112
Lubrication113
Engine oil114-115
Power steering fluid, Brake/clutch system fluid reservoir116
Automatic transmission fluid117
Drive belt118
Windshield washer nozzle, Washer fluid reservoir119
Coolant120
Engine compartment121
Battery maintenance122
pg. 106 Label information
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