tire pressure VOLVO S80 2008 User Guide

When weather temperature changes occur, tire inflation pressures also change. A 10-degree temperature drop causes a
corresponding drop of 1 psi (7 kPa) in inflation pressure. Check your tire pressures frequently and adjust them to the
proper pressure, which can be found on the vehicle's tire information placard or certification label.
Checking tire pressure
Cold tires
Inflation pressure should be checked when the tires are cold.
The tires are considered to be cold when they have the same temperature as the surrounding (ambient) air.
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This temperature is normally reached after the vehicle has been parked for at least 3 hours.
After driving a distance of approximately 1 mile (1.6 km), the tires are considered to be hot. If you have to drive
farther than this distance to pump your tire(s), check and record the tire pressure first and add the appropriate air
pressure when you get to the pump.
If checking tire pressure when the tire is hot, never "bleed" or reduce air pressure. The tires are hot from driving and it
is normal for pressures to increase above recommended cold pressures. A hot tire at or below recommended cold
inflation pressure could be significantly under-inflated.
To check inflation pressure:
1. Remove the cap from the valve on one tire, then firmly press the tire gauge onto the valve.
2. Add air to reach the recommended air pressure.
3. Replace the valve cap.
4. Repeat this procedure for each tire, including the spare.
5. Visually inspect the tires to make sure there are no nails or other objects embedded that could puncture the tire and
cause an air leak.
6. Check the sidewalls to make sure there are no gouges, cuts, bulges or other irregularities.
NOTE
If you overfill the tire, release air by pushing on the metal stem in the center of the valve. Then recheck the
pressure with your tire gauge.

Some spare tires require higher inflation pressure than the other tires. Consult the tire inflation tables beginning on
page 240 or see the inflation pressure placard.
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Tire specifications
Speed ratings
The speed ratings in the table below translate as follows:
Load ratings
The speed ratings in the table below translate as follows:
See also page 245 for an explanation of the designations on the sidewall of the tire.
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Tire inflation pressure table - U.S. models
The following tire pressures are recommended by Volvo for your vehicle. Refer to the tire inflation placard for
information specific to the tires installed on your vehicle at the factory.

NOTE
A certain amount of air seepage from the tires occurs naturally and tire pressure fluctuates with seasonal changes in
temperature. Always check tire pressure regularly.
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Tire inflation pressure table - Canadian models
The following tire pressures are recommended by Volvo for your vehicle. Refer to the tire inflation placard for
information specific to the tires installed on your vehicle at the factory.
NOTE
A certain amount of air seepage from the tires occurs naturally and tire pressure fluctuates with seasonal changes in
temperature. Always check tire pressure regularly.
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Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) -U.S. models only

The tire pressure monitoring system uses sensors mounted in the tire valves to check inflation pressure levels. When
the vehicle is moving at a speed of approximately 20 mph (30 km/h) or faster, these sensors transmit inflation pressure
data to a receiver located in the vehicle.
NOTE
USA - FCC ID: KR5S122780002
This device complies with part 15 of the FCC rules. Operation is subject to the following conditions: (1) This device
may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference
that may cause undesired operation.
When low inflation pressure is detected, TPMS will light up the tire pressure warning light (
) (also referred to as
a telltale) in the instrument panel, and will display a message in the text window. The wording of this message is
determined by the degree of inflation pressure loss.
NOTE
If a fault occurs in TPMS, the tire pressure warning light will flash for approximately 1 minute and TIRE PRESS
SYST SERVICE REQUIRED will be displayed.
Each tire, including the spare (if provided), should be checked monthly when cold and inflated to the inflation pressure
recommended by the vehicle manufacturer on the vehicle placard or tire inflation pressure label. (If your vehicle has
tires of a different size than the size indicated on the vehicle placard or tire inflation pressure label, you should
determine the proper tire inflation pressure for those tires.)
As an added safety feature, your vehicle has been equipped with a tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) that
illuminates a low tire pressure telltale when one or more of your tires is significantly under-inflated. Accordingly,
when the low tire pressure telltale illuminates, you should stop and check your tires as soon as possible, and inflate
them to the proper pressure. Driving on a significantly under-inflated tire causes the tire to overheat and can lead to
tire failure. Under-inflation also reduces fuel efficiency and tire tread life, and may affect the vehicle's handling and
stopping ability.
Please note that the TPMS is not a substitute for proper tire maintenance, and it is the driver's responsibility to
maintain correct tire pressure, even if under-inflation has not reached the level to trigger illumination of the TPMS low
tire pressure telltale.
Your vehicle has also been equipped with a TPMS malfunction indicator to indicate when the system is not operating
properly. The TPMS malfunction indicator is combined with the low tire pressure telltale. When the system detects a
malfunction, the telltale will flash for approximately one minute and then remain continuously illuminated. This
sequence will continue upon subsequent vehicle start-ups as long as the malfunction exists. When the malfunction
indicator is illuminated, the system may not be able to detect or signal low tire pressure as intended. TPMS
malfunctions may occur for a variety of reasons, including the installation of replacement or alternate tires or wheels
on the vehicle that prevent the TPMS from functioning properly. Always check the TPMS malfunction telltale after
replacing one or more tires or wheels on your vehicle to ensure that the replacement or alternate tires and wheels allow
the TPMS to continue to function properly.
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NOTE
TPMS indicates low tire pressure but does not replace normal tire maintenance. For information on correct tire
pressure, please refer to the tables beginning on page 240
, or consult your Volvo retailer.
The tire pressure warning light will not identify which tire is under-inflated. Be sure to check all four tires.
A certain amount of air seepage from the tires occurs naturally and tire pressure fluctuates with seasonal changes
in temperature. Always check tire pressure regularly.
Erasing warning messages
When a low tire pressure warning message has been displayed, and the tire pressure warning light has come on:
1. Use a tire pressure gauge to check the inflation pressure of all four tires.
2. Re-inflate the tire(s) to the correct pressure (consult the tire pressure placard or the tables beginning on page 240
).
3. In certain cases, it may be necessary to drive the vehicle for several minutes at a speed of 20 mph (30 km/h) or
faster. This will erase the warning text and the warning light will go out.
WARNING
Incorrect inflation pressure could lead to tire failure, resulting in a loss of control of the vehicle.
Changing wheels with TPMS
Please note the following when changing or replacing the factory installed TPMS wheels/tires on the vehicle:
Only the factory-mounted wheels are equipped with TPMS sensors in the valves.
If the vehicle is equipped with a temporary spare tire, this tire does not have a TPMS sensor.
If wheels without TPMS sensors are mounted on the vehicle, TIRE PRESS SYST SERVICE REQUIRED will be
displayed each time the vehicle is driven above 25 mph (40 km/h) for 10 minutes or more.
Once TPMS sensors are properly installed, the warning message should not reappear. If the message is still
displayed, drive the vehicle for several minutes at a speed of 20 mph (30 km/h) or faster to erase the message.
Volvo recommends that TPMS sensors be fitted on all wheels used on the vehicle. Volvo does not recommend
moving sensors back and forth between sets of wheels.
NOTE
If you change to tires with a different recommended inflation pressure, the TPMS system must be recalibrated to
these tires. This must be done by a trained and qualified Volvo service technician.
If a tire is changed, or if the TPMS sensor is moved to another wheel, the sensor's seal, nut, and valve core should
be replaced.
When installing TPMS sensors, the vehicle must be parked for at least 15 minutes with the ignition off. if the
vehicle is driven within 15 minutes, a TPMS error message will be displayed.
CAUTION
When inflating tires with TPMS valves, press the pump's mouthpiece straight onto the valve to help avoid bending or
otherwise damaging the valve.
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Self supporting run flat tires
Certain models equipped with the Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) can also be equipped with self supporting
run flat tires.
Tires of this type have specially reinforced sidewalls that make it possible to continue driving in the event of a drop in
inflation pressure. Tires of this type are mounted on special rims.
NOTE
Self supporting run flat tires are only available in conjunction with TPMS.
If a self supporting run flat tire should lose inflation pressure, the yellow TPMS warning symbol (
) in the
instrument panel lights up to alert the driver, and a message will be shown in the text window in the instrument panel.
If this occurs, reduce vehicle speed to a maximum of 50 mph (80 km/h). The vehicle can be driven approximately 50
miles (80 km), or somewhat farther if the vehicle is not heavily loaded. The tire should be replaced as soon as
possible.
Hard braking and sudden steering maneuvers should be avoided.
In certain cases, it may be difficult to see which self supporting run flat tire is defective. To determine which tire is
damaged, check the inflation pressure of all four tires.
WARNING
Only specially trained persons should mount self supporting run flat tires.
If self supporting run flat tires are mounted, the vehicle must be equipped with a Tire Pressure Monitoring
System.
After a low pressure warning has been displayed, do not exceed 50 mph (80 km/h).
Avoid severe cornering and hard braking, and minimize the distance traveled before replacing the self supporting
run flat tire.
Self supporting run flat tires cannot be repaired. They must be replaced if damaged or punctured.
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Tire designations
Federal law mandates that tire manufacturers place standardized information on the sidewall of all tires (see the

illustration).
The following information is listed on the tire sidewall:
The tire designation (the following figures are examples of a tire designation):
1. 215: the width of the tire (in millimeters) from sidewall edge to sidewall edge. The larger the number, the wider the
tire.
2. 65: The ratio of the tire's height to its width.
3. R: Radial tire.
4. 15: The diameter of the wheel rim (in inches).
5. 95: The tire's load index. In this example, a load index of 95 equals a maximum load of 1521 lbs (690 kg).
6. H: The tire's speed rating, or the maximum speed at which the tire is designed to be driven for extended periods of
time, carrying a permissible load for the vehicle, and with correct inflation pressure. For example, H indicates a speed
rating of 130 mph (210 km/h).
NOTE
This information may not appear on the tire because it is not required by law.
7. M+S or M/S = Mud and Snow, AT = All Terrain, AS = All Season
8. U.S. DOT Tire Identification Number (TIN) : This begins with the letters "DOT" and indicates that the tire meets
all federal standards. The next two numbers or letters are the plant code where it was manufactured, the next two are
the tire size code and the last four numbers represent the week and year the tire was built. For example, the numbers
317 mean the 31st week of 1997. After 2000 the numbers go to four digits. For example, 2501 means the 25th week of
2001. The numbers in between are marketing codes used at the manufacturer's discretion. This information helps a tire
manufacturer identify a tire for safety recall purposes.
9. Tire Ply Composition and Material Used : Indicates the number of plies indicates or the number of layers of
rubber-coated fabric in the tire tread and sidewall. Tire manufacturers also must indicate the ply materials in the tire
and the sidewall, which include steel, nylon, polyester, and others.
10. Maximum Load : Indicates the maximum load in pounds and kilograms that can be carried by the tire. Refer to the
vehicle's tire information placard or the safety certification label, located on the B-Pillar or the driver's door or on the
inside of the fuel filler door on Canadian models, for the correct tire pressure for your vehicle.
11. Treadwear, Traction, and Temperature grades : See page 249
for more information.
12. Maximum permissible inflation pressure: the greatest amount of air pressure that should ever be put in the tire. This
limit is set by the tire manufacturer.
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Glossary of tire terminology

The tire suppliers may have additional markings, notes or warnings such as standard load, radial tubeless, etc.
Tire information placard: A placard showing the OE (Original Equipment) tire sizes, recommended inflation
pressure, and the maximum weight the vehicle can carry.
Tire Identification Number (TIN) : A number on the sidewall of each tire providing information about the tire
brand and manufacturing plant, tire size and date of manufacturer.
Inflation pressure : A measure of the amount of air in a tire.
Standard load: A class of P-metric or Metric tires designed to carry a maximum load at 35 psi [37 psi (2.5 bar) for
Metric tires]. Increasing the inflation pressure beyond this pressure will not increase the tires load carrying capability.
Extra load : A class of P-metric or Metric tires designed to carry a heavier maximum load at 41 psi [43 psi (2.9 bar)
for Metric tires]. Increasing the inflation pressure beyond this pressure will not increase the tire's load carrying
capability.
kPa : Kilopascal, a metric unit of air pressure.
PSI: Pounds per square inch, a standard unit of air pressure.
B-pillar: The structural member at the side of the vehicle behind the front door.
Bead area of the tire : Area of the tire next to the rim.
Sidewall of the tire: Area between the bead area and the tread.
Tread area of the tire : Area of the perimeter of the tire that contacts the road when mounted on the vehicle.
Rim: The metal support (wheel) for a tire or a tire and tube assembly upon which the tire beads are seated.
Maximum load rating : a figure indicating the maximum load in pounds and kilograms that can be carried by the
tire. This rating is established by the tire manufacturer.
Maximum permissible inflation pressure : the greatest amount of air pressure that should ever be put in the tire.
This limit is set by the tire manufacturer.
Recommended tire inflation pressure : inflation pressure, established by Volvo, which is based on the type of tires
that are mounted on a vehicle at the factory. This inflation pressure is affected by the number of occupants in the
vehicle, the amount of cargo, and the speed at which the vehicle will be driven for a prolonged period. This
information can be found on the tire inflation placard(s) located on the driver's side B-pillar or on the inside of the fuel
filler door on Canadian models, and in the tire inflation table in this chapter.
Cold tires : The tires are considered to be cold when they have the same temperature as the surrounding (ambient)
air. This temperature is normally reached after the vehicle has been parked for at least 3 hours.
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Vehicle loading
Properly loading your vehicle will provide maximum return of vehicle design performance.
Before loading your vehicle, familiarize yourself with the following terms for determining your vehicle's weight
ratings, with or without a trailer, from the vehicle's Federal/Canadian Motor Vehicle Safety Standards
(FMVSS/CMVSS) label, and the vehicle's tire information placard:
Curb weight
The weight of the vehicle including a full tank of fuel and all standard equipment. It does not include passengers,
cargo, or optional equipment.
Capacity weight
All weight added to the curb weight, including cargo and optional equipment. When towing, trailer hitch tongue load
is also part of cargo weight.
NOTE

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. 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.
All Wheel Drive models: Snow chains should only be installed on the front wheels. Only chains adapted for AWD
models should 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 chain manufacturer's installation instructions carefully. Install chains as tightly as possible and
retighten periodically.
Never exceed the chain manufacturer's specified maximum speed limit. (Under no circumstances should you
exceed 31 mph (50 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
1
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 different design as this could also negatively affect overall tire road grip.
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 vehicle should be driven as smoothly
as possible to give the studs the opportunity to seat properly in the tires. The tires should have the same rotational
direction throughout their entire lifetime.
1Where permitted
NOTE
Please consult state or provincial regulations restricting the use of studded winter tires before installing such tires.
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Temporary Spare
The spare tire in your vehicle is called a "Temporary Spare".
Recommended tire pressure (see the placard on the B-pillar or on the fuel filler door) should be maintained irrespective
of which position on the vehicle 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.

Suspension wear diagnostics
Every suspension needs periodic inspection and maintenance. A tire's wear pattern can be an aid in detecting a
suspension problem. Each tire, if left in place, tells a story about the suspension. Tire rotation, on the other hand, could
make suspension wear harder to detect. Early detection is very important, because suspension problems can make tire
wear worse.
If you do rotate your tires...
Please follow the tire manufacturer's recommendations, as outlined in the tire manufacturers tire warranty pamphlet.
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Changing a wheel
Spare wheel
The spare wheel (Temporary spare) is only intended for temporary use. Replace the spare wheel with a normal wheel
as soon as possible. The car's handling may be altered by the use of the spare wheel. The correct tire pressure for the
spare wheel is stated in the tire pressure tables, see pages 240 and 241
.
WARNING
Current legislation prohibits the use of the "Temporary Spare" tire other than as a temporary replacement for a
punctured tire. It must be replaced as soon as possible by a standard tire. Road holding and handling may be affected
with the "Temporary Spare" in use.
CAUTION
The vehicle must never be driven with more than one temporary spare wheel.
The spare wheel is located in the spare wheel well with the rim side down. There are two foam blocks, one under the
spare wheel and one over/inside. The upper one contains all tools.
The same bolt runs through to secure the spare wheel and the foam blocks.
Taking out the spare wheel
1. Fold the rear edge of the floor mat forward.
2. Open the floor hatch.