tow VOLVO C70 2008 Owner's Manual

CAUTION
Do not refuel with the engine running1. 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.
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
emission 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 Warranty.
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 system. Such damage may not be covered under
the New Vehicle Limited Warranty.
1If 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.
139 06 Starting and driving
Ignition switch, Steering wheel lock
Ignition switch and steering wheel lock
0 - Locked position
Remove the key to lock the steering wheel. Never turn the key to position 0 while driving or when the vehicle is being
towed.
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.
I - Intermediate position1
Certain accessories, radio, etc. on, daytime running lights off.
1Please be aware that leaving the key in this positions I or II will increase battery drain.
II - Drive position
The key's position when driving. The vehicle's entire electrical system is activated.
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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 .
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.
NOTE
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 .
To return to the Drive (D) position from M , move the gear selector to the left. While driving
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.
Move the gear selector forward (toward "+") to shift to a higher gear or rearward (toward "-") to shift to a lower
gear.
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 not occur until
the speed has decreased enough to allow the lower gear to be used.
If you slow to a very low speed, the transmission will automatically shift down.
Cold starts (turbo engines)
When driving before the engine has reached its normal operating temperature, the transmission will shift up at slightly
higher engine speeds to heat the three-way catalytic converter as quickly as possible.
Kickdown
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 acceleration or when passing at highway speeds.
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.
Kickdown will not occur if the driver attempts to use this function when engine speeds are too high. The transmission
will remain in the currently selected gear.
146 06 Starting and driving
Shiftlock override
Overriding the shiftlock system
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Shiftlock prevents the gear selector from being moved out of Park unless the ignition key is in position II and the
brake pedal is depressed.
In certain cases it may be necessary to move the gear selector from the Park 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.
4. Insert the key blade (see page 115
) into the opening and press it down until it bottoms.
5. With the key blade pressed down, move the gear selector out of the P position.
147 06 Starting and driving
Brake system
Brake circuit malfunction
The brake system is a hydraulic system consisting of two separate brake circuits. If a problem should occur in one of
these circuits, it is still possible to stop the vehicle with the other brake circuit.
If the brake pedal must be depressed farther than normal and requires greater foot pressure, the stopping distance will
be longer.
A warning light in the instrument panel will light up to warn the driver that a fault has occurred.
If this light comes on while driving or braking, stop immediately and check the brake fluid level in the reservoir.
NOTE
Press the brake pedal hard and maintain pressure on the pedal - do not pump the brakes.
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 trained and qualified Volvo service technician and have the
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brake system inspected.
Power brakes function only when the engine is running
The power brakes utilize vacuum pressure which is only created when the engine is running. Never let the vehicle roll
to a stop with the engine switched off.
If the power brakes are not working, the brake pedal must be pressed approximately five times harder than usual to
make up for the lack of power assistance. This can happen for example when towing your vehicle or if the engine is
switched off when the vehicle is rolling. The brake pedal feels harder than usual.
Water on brake discs and brake pads affects braking
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 occasionally 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.
Severe strain on the brake system
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.
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 automatically
modulated in order to help prevent lockup that could lead to a skid.
The system performs a self -diagnostic test when the engine is started and when the vehicle first reaches a speed
of approximately 12 m.p.h. (20 km/h).
The brake pedal will pulsate several times and a sound may be audible from the ABS control module. This is normal.
148 06 Starting and driving
Brake system
For optimal ABS braking effect:
1. Press down on the brake pedal with full force. The pedal will pulsate.
2. Steer the vehicle in the direction of travel and keep the brake pedal depressed.
The switching of the ABS modulator will be audible and the brake pedal will pulsate during 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.
If the warning lamp lights up there is a malfunction of the ABS system (the standard braking system will still function)
and the vehicle should be driven cautiously to a trained and qualified Volvo service technician for inspection.
Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD)
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temperature and will automatically switch on again when the brakes have cooled.
ANTI SKID SERVICE REQUIRED - the system has been automatically disengaged due to a fault. A trained and
qualified Volvo service technician should check the system.
Symbols in the instrument panel
The Stability Control indicator light
This light indicates different conditions, depending on how it illuminates.
The Stability Control indicator light illuminates for approximately 2 seconds
This indicates that the system is performing a self -diagnostic test when the ignition is switched on.
The Stability Control indicator light flashes
This indicates that the stability system is actively functioning to help counteract wheel spin and/or a skid.
The Stability Control indicator light glows steadily
ANTI SKID SERVICE REQUIRED will be displayed in the text window at the same time.
A fault is indicated in the stability system.
1. Stop the vehicle in a safe place and switch off the engine.
2. Restart the engine.
3. If the indicator light goes out, the fault was temporary and no further action is required.
4. If the indicator light remains on, drive to an authorized Volvo workshop as soon as possible to have the system
checked.
The Stability Control indicator light glows steadily
If DSTC SPIN CONTROL OFF is displayed in the text window at the same time, this is a reminder that spin control
has been disabled by the driver.
The warning symbol
The warning symbol glows steadily yellow
The system has been temporarily switched off due to high brake temperature. TRACTION CONTROL
TEMPORARILY OFF will be displayed. The system will automatically switch on again when the brakes have cooled.
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 vehicle. Speed and driving style should always be adapted to traffic
and road conditions.
151 06 Starting and driving
Towing
Emergency towing
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The towing eyelet is located under the floor of the cargo area with the optional temporary spare tire or in the bag
stowed in the ski hatch. This eyelet must be screwed into the positions provided on the right sides of either the front or
rear bumper (see illustrations).
To attach the towing eyelet:
1. Press the mark on the lower edge of the cover (1) to open it
2. Screw the towing eyelet in place first by hand and then using the tire iron until it is securely in place.
After the vehicle has been towed
1. The eyelet should be removed and returned to the tool bag.
2. Press the cover back into position.
152 06 Starting and driving
Towing
Towing a vehicle with all four wheels on the ground
WARNING
Volvo does not recommend towing a disabled vehicle behind another vehicle. Significant difficulty in steering and
braking, combined with unfavorable weather, traffic, and road conditions may make it impossible to maintain vehicle
control.
1. Apply the parking brake.
2. Insert the key into the ignition to unlock the steering wheel. The steering wheel must be unlocked. With the engine
off and the vehicle at a standstill, great effort will be required to turn the steering wheel.
WARNING
Towing a vehicle with a locked steering wheel will make the vehicle impossible to steer.
3. Turn the ignition key to position II.
4. Place the gear selector in neutral. For vehicles with automatic transmissions, follow instruction on page 146
, "
Shiftlock override" to allow the gear selector to be moved from the Park position.
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5. Keep firm pressure on the brake pedal while releasing the parking brake.
6. When towing has been completed, return the gear selector to Park (automatic) or Reverse (manual) and apply the
parking brake.
The following points should also be observed:
Never exceed 50 mph (80 km/h). Never exceed local towing speed limits and heed all local towing restrictions.
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.
WARNING
Never allow a vehicle to be towed without a driver behind the wheel of the disabled vehicle.
Never remove the key from the ignition while the vehicle is moving. The steering wheel could lock, making it
impossible to steer the vehicle.
When the engine is not running, steering resistance and the effort needed to apply the brakes will be great.
Never attempt to tow a vehicle with a dead battery at night.
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 device, lighting, marker flags, etc.
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 overheating, backfiring, and damage. See page 154
for instructions on jump
starting the vehicle
153 06 Starting and driving
Towing
Towing vehicles with front wheel drive
Volvo recommends the use of flat bed equipment 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.
In this case, the vehicle should be towed with the rear wheels on the ground if at all possible.
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.
Sling-type equipment applied at the front will damage radiator and air conditioning lines.
It is equally important not to use sling -type equipment at the rear or apply lifting equipment inside the rear wheels;
serious damage to the rear axle may result.
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. Consult the tow truck operator.
WARNING
Remember that the power brakes and power steering will not function when engine is not running. The braking
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and steering systems will function but the brake pedal pressure required is 3 - 5 times above normal and greater
steering effort must be exerted.
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.
154 06 Starting and driving
Jump starting
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 touching to
prevent premature completion of a circuit. Be sure to follow jump starting instructions provided for the other vehicle.
To jump start your vehicle:
1. Switch off the ignition.
2. First connect the auxiliary battery positive (+) terminal (1) to the positive (+) terminal in your vehicle's battery (2),
marked with a "+" sign.
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).
4. Start the engine in the assisting vehicle, then start the engine in the vehicle with dead battery.
5. After the engine has started, first remove the negative (-) terminal jumper cable. Then remove the positive (+)
terminal jumper cable.
WARNING
PROPOSITION 65 WARNING!
Battery posts, terminals, and related accessories contain lead and lead compounds, chemicals known to the state of
California to cause cancer and reproductive harm. Wash hands after handling.
WARNING
Do not connect the jumper cable to any part of the fuel system or to any moving parts. Avoid touching hot
manifolds.
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Batteries generate hydrogen gas, which is flammable and explosive.
Battery fluid contains sulfuric acid. Do not allow battery fluid to contact eyes, skin, fabrics or painted surfaces. If
contact occurs, flush the affected area immediately with water. Obtain medical help immediately if eyes are affected.
Never expose the battery to open flame or electric spark.
Do not smoke near the battery.
Failure to follow the instructions for jump starting can lead to personal injury.
Do not touch the jumper cables during the attempt to start the vehicle. This could cause sparks.
155 06 Starting and driving
Towing a trailer
General information
Volvo recommends the use of Volvo trailer hitches that are specially designed for the vehicle.
Maximum trailer weights recommended by Volvo are:
Trailers without brakes : 1,540 lbs (700 kg).
Trailers with brakes: 2,000 lbs (900 kg) Observe the legal requirements of the state/province in which the vehicles
are registered.
The maximum recommended hitch tongue load is 165 lbs ( 75 kg).
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:
Increase tire pressure to recommended full. See the chapter "Wheels and tires."
When your vehicle is new, avoid towing heavy trailers during the first 620 miles (1,000 km).
Maximum speed when towing a trailer: 50 m.p.h. (80 km/h).
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 a lower gear and turn off the air conditioner if the
temperature gauge needle enters the red range.
If the automatic transmission begins to overheat, a message will be displayed in the information display.
Avoid overload and other abusive operation.
Hauling a trailer affects handling, durability, and economy.
It is necessary to balance trailer brakes with the towing vehicle brakes to provide a safe stop (check and observe
state/local regulations).
Do not connect the trailer's brake system directly to the vehicle's brake system.
More frequent vehicle maintenance is required.
Remove the ball and drawbar assembly when the hitch is not being used.
Volvo recommends the use of synthetic engine oil when towing a trailer over long distances or in mountainous
areas.
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's rear axle must not be used.
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 trained and qualified Volvo service technician for correct
installation.
When towing a trailer, the trailer's safety wire must be correctly fastened to the hole or hook provided in the
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trailer hitch on the vehicle. The safety wire should never be fastened to or wound around the drawbar ball.
156 06 Starting and driving
Towing a trailer
NOTE
When parking the vehicle with a trailer on a hill, apply the parking brake before putting the gear selector in Park
( P ) or in reverse on models with a manual transmission. Always follow the trailer manufacturer's recommendations
for wheel chocking.
If you use the manual (Geartronic) shift positions while towing a trailer, or if the vehicle is equipped with a
manual transmission, make sure the gear you select does not put too much strain on the engine (using too high a
gear).
The drawbar assembly/trailer hitch may be rated for trailers heavier than the vehicle is designed to tow. Please
adhere to Volvo's recommended trailer weights.
Avoid driving with a trailer on inclines exceeding 15%.
157 06 Starting and driving
Detachable trailer hitch
Installing the ball holder
1. If necessary, remove the cotter pin (C) from the locking bolt (B) and slide the locking bolt out of the hitch assembly
(D).
2. Slide the ball holder (A) into the hitch assembly (D).
3. Align the hole in the ball holder (A) with the one in the hitch assembly (D).
4. Slide the locking bolt (C) through the hitch assembly (D)/ball holder (A).
5. Insert the cotter pin (C) in the hole at the end of the locking bolt (B).
Removing the ball holder
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