light VOLVO XC90 2009 Owner´s Manual

06 Starting and drivingBrake system
06144
vehicle first reaches a speed of approxi-
mately 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.
To obtain optimal effect from the ABS system,
constant pressure should be kept on the brake
pedal. Do not pump the brake pedal.
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.ABS with EBD (Electronic Brake Force
Distribution)EBD is an integrated part of the ABS system.
EBD regulates the hydraulic pressure to the
rear brakes to help provide optimal braking
capacity. The brake pedal will pulsate during
braking, which is normal.
If the BRAKE and ABS warning lights come on
at the same time, this could indicate a fault in
the brake system.
1. Stop the vehicle in a suitable place and
switch off the engine.
2. Restart the engine.
•
If both warning lights go off, no further
action is required.
•
If both lights are still on after the engine has
been restarted, switch off the engine again
and check the brake fluid level (see
page 212 for the location of the brake fluid
reservoir).WARNING
If the fluid level is below the MIN mark in the
reservoir or if a
Brake failure – Service
urgent
message is displayed in the text
window: DO NOT DRIVE. Have the vehicle
towed to a trained and qualified Volvo serv-
ice technician and have the brake system
inspected.
•
If the brake fluid level is above the MIN
mark, drive carefully to a trained and quali-
fied Volvo service technician and have the
brake system inspected.
Emergency Brake Assistance (EBA)The EBA function is designed to provide full
brake effect immediately in the event of sud-
den, hard braking. The system is activated by
the speed with which you depress the brake
pedal.
NOTE
•
When the EBA system is activated, the
brake pedal will go down and pressure
in the brake system immediately increa-
ses to the maximum level. You must
maintain full pressure on the brake
pedal in order to utilize the system com-
pletely. There will be no braking effect if
the pedal is released. EBA is automati-
cally deactivated when the brake pedal
is released.
•
When the vehicle has been parked for
some time, the brake pedal may sink
more than usual when the engine is
started. This is normal and the pedal will
return to its usual position when it is
released.

06 Starting and driving
Stability system
06``145 Dynamic Stability Traction Control
(DSTC)
The stability system consists of a number of
functions designed help reduce wheel spin,
counteract skidding, and to generally help
improve directional stability.
NOTE
A pulsating sound will be audible when the
system is actively operating and is normal.Traction control (TC)This function is designed to help reduce wheel
spin by transferring power from a drive wheel
that begins to lose traction to the wheel on the
opposite side of the vehicle (on the same axle).
TC is most active at low speeds.
This is one of DSTC's permanent functions and
cannot be switched off.Spin control (SC)The spin control function is designed to help
prevent the drive wheels from spinning while
the vehicle is accelerating.
Under certain circumstances, such as when
driving with snow chains, or driving in deep
snow or loose sand, it may be advisable to
temporarily switch off this function for maxi-
mum tractive force.
G028511
Controls on the left-side steering wheel leverTemporarily switching off Spin control1. Turn the thumbwheel (1) on the left-side
steering wheel lever until the
DSTC
menu
is displayed.
2.
Hold down the RESET button (2) to toggle
between
DSTC SPIN CONTROL ON
or
OFF
.
NOTE
•
The message
DSTC SPIN CONTROL
OFF
indicates that the stability sys-
tem's spin control function has tempo-
rarily been switched off.
•
The stability control indicator light will
illuminate and remain on until spin con-
trol has been reactivated.
•
The spin control function is automati-
cally enabled each time the engine is
started.
•
DSTC ON
indicates that all system
functions are active.
Active Yaw Control (AYC)This function helps maintain directional stabil-
ity, for example when cornering, by braking
one or more of the wheels if the vehicle shows
a tendency to skid or slide laterally.
This is one of DSTC's permanent functions and
cannot be switched off.
WARNING
The car's handling and stability characteris-
tics will be altered if the DSTC system func-
tions have been disabled.

06 Starting and drivingStability system
06146
DSTC-related messages in the text
window•
TRACTION CONTROL TEMPORARILY
OFF
– The system has been temporarily
switched off due to high brake temperature
and will automatically switch on again
when the brakes have cooled.
•
"ANTI SKID SERVICE REQUIRED
" – the
system has been automatically disen-
gaged due to a fault. A trained and qualified
Volvo service technician should check the
system.
Symbols in the instrument panelThe Stability Control indicator light
This light indicates different condi-
tions, depending on how it illumi-
nates.
The Stability Control indicator light
illuminates for approximately 2 secondsThis indicates that the system is performing a
self-diagnostic test when the ignition is
switched on.The Stability Control indicator light
flashesThis indicates that the stability system is
actively functioning to help counteract wheel
spin and/or a skid.
The Stability Control indicator light
glows steadilyANTI SKID SERVICE REQUIRED
will be dis-
played in the text window at the same time.
A fault is indicated in the stability system.
•
Stop the vehicle in a safe place and switch
off the engine.
•
Restart the engine.
•
If the indicator light goes out, the fault was
temporary and no further action is
required.
•
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 steadilyIfDSTC 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. "
TRACTIONCONTROL TEMPORARILY OFF
" will be dis-
played. 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 vehi-
cle. Speed and driving style should always
be adapted to traffic and road conditions.

06 Starting and driving
Front/rear park assist (accessory/option)
06``147
G020294
Front/rear park assistThe park assist system is designed to assist
you when driving into parking spaces, garages,
etc. It utilizes four ultrasound sensors located
in one or both bumpers to measure the dis-
tance to a vehicle, object, or a person who may
be close to the front or rear of your vehicle.
Park assist is available in two versions:•
Rear bumper only
•
Front and rear bumpers
WARNING
Park Assist is an information system, NOT a
safety system. This system is designed to
be a supplementary aid when parking the
vehicle. It is not, however, intended to
replace the driver's attention and judge-
ment.FunctionThe system is activated automatically when the
vehicle is started. The indicator light in the but-
ton in the center console illuminates.•
The front park assist system is active from
the time the engine is started until the vehi-
cle exceeds a speed of approximately
10 mph (15 km/h). It is also active when the
vehicle is backing up.
•
Rear park assist is active when the engine
is running and reverse gear has been
selected.
Rear park assistThe distance monitored behind the vehicle is
approximately 5 ft (1.5 m). The signal comes
from the rear speakers.
The system must be deactivated when towing
a trailer, carrying bicycles in a rear-mounted
carrier, etc, which could trigger the rear park
assist system's sensors.
NOTE
Rear park assist is deactivated automati-
cally when towing a trailer if Volvo genuine
trailer wiring is used.Front park assistThe distance monitored in front of the vehicle
is approximately 2.5 ft (0.8 m). The audible sig-
nal comes from the audio system's front
speakers.•
It may not be possible to combine auxiliary
headlights and front park assist since
these lights could trigger the system's sen-
sors.
Activating/deactivating park assistThe system is activated automatically when the
vehicle is started.•
Press the Park assist button on the center
console (see page 60) to temporarily deac-
tivate the system(s). The indicator light in
the button will go out when the system has
been deactivated.
•
Park assist will be automatically reactiva-
ted the next time the engine is started, or if
the button is pressed (the indicator light in
the button will illuminate).

06 Starting and drivingTowing
06150
CAUTION
Vehicles with AWD (All Wheel Drive) with the
front wheels off the ground should not be
towed at speeds about 50 mph (70 km/h) or
for distances longer than 30 miles (50 km).
CAUTION
•
Please check with state and local
authorities before attempting this type
of towing, as vehicles being towed are
subject to regulations regarding maxi-
mum towing speed, length and type of
towing device, lighting, etc.
•
If the vehicle's battery is dead, do not
attempt to start the vehicle by pushing
or pulling it as this will damage the
three-way catalytic converter(s). The
engine must be jump started using an
auxiliary battery (see page 141).
•
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 and
steering systems will function but the
brake pedal pressure required is
3 – 4 times above normal and greater
steering effort must be exerted.
•
The towing eyelets must not be used for
pulling another 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.
G030862
Towing vehicles with front wheel drive/
All Wheel DriveVolvo recommends the use of flat bed equip-
ment.
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.
CAUTION
•
Sling-type equipment applied at the
front will damage radiator and air con-
ditioning lines.
•
It is equally important not to use sling-
type equipment at the rear or apply lift-
ing 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.

06 Starting and driving
Towing a trailer
06``153
NOTE
•
If the automatic transmission begins to
overheat, a message will be displayed
in the text window.
•
Hauling a trailer affects handling, dura-
bility, and economy.
•
It is necessary to balance trailer brakes
with the towing vehicle brakes to pro-
vide a safe stop (check and observe
state/local regulations).
•
Do not connect the trailer's brake sys-
tem directly to the vehicle's brake sys-
tem.
•
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.
NOTE
•
When parking the vehicle with a trailer
on a hill, apply the parking brake before
putting the gear selector in P. When
starting on a hill, put the gear selector in
D before releasing the parking brake.
Always follow the trailer manufacturer's
recommendations for wheel chocking.
•
If you use the manual (Geartronic) shift
positions while towing a trailer, make
sure the gear you select does not put
too much strain on the engine (using too
high a gear).
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.
•
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 a 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 trailer hitch
on the vehicle. The safety wire should
never be fastened to or wound around
the drawbar ball.
Smoother starts with a trailerModels equipped with the V8-engine and the
6-speed automatic transmission have a built-
in function that reduces acceleration slightly in
first gear when the vehicle is towing a trailer.
This is done to help avoid wheel spin and to
make starting off smoother.•
This function is activated when the trailer's
electrical connector is plugged into the

06 Starting and drivingTowing a trailer
06154
electrical socket mounted near the trailer
hitch.
•
The function is automatically deactivated
when the trailer's wiring is disconnected
from the socket. The vehicle will then
accelerate normally.NOTE
Since this function is activated when a con-
nector is plugged into the electrical socket
near the trailer hitch, it will be activated by
any electrical equipment (e.g. bicycle racks
with lighting, etc) that is plugged in, and will
remain active until the equipment is unplug-
ged from the socket.LevelingIf your vehicle is equipped with automatic lev-
eling, the rear suspension always retains the
correct ride height regardless of the load.•
The system adjusts the rear suspension to
the correct level after the vehicle has been
driven a short distance.
•
When the vehicle is stationary, the rear
suspension lowers, which is normal.

06 Starting and driving
Cold weather precautions
06
157
If you wish to check your vehicle before the
approach of cold weather, the following advice
is worth noting:•
Make sure that the engine coolant contains
50 percent antifreeze. Any other mixture
will reduce freeze protection. 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 must not be mixed.
•
Volvo recommends using only genuine
Volvo antifreeze in your vehicle's radiator.
Your Volvo retailer stocks plenty of Volvo
engine coolant to protect your vehicle dur-
ing cold weather.
•
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.
•
The viscosity of the engine oil is important.
Oil with low viscosity (thinner oil) improves
cold-weather starting as well as decreas-
ing fuel consumption while the engine is
warming up. For winter use, 5W-30 oil, par-
ticularly the synthetic type
1, is recom-
mended. Be sure to use good quality oil but
do not use cold-weather oil for hard drivingor in warm weather. See section "Engine
oil" for more information.
•
The load placed on the battery is greater
during the winter since the windshield wip-
ers, lighting, etc. are used more often.
Moreover, the capacity of the battery
decreases as the temperature drops. In
very cold weather, a poorly charged bat-
tery can freeze and be damaged. It is there-
fore advisable to check the state of charge
more frequently and spray an antirust oil on
the battery posts.
•
Volvo recommends the use of snow tires
on all four wheels for winter driving – see
section "Wheels and tires."
•
To prevent the washer fluid reservoir
from freezing, add washer solvents con-
taining antifreeze (see page 211 for the
location of the washer fluid reservoir). This
is important since dirt is often splashed on
the windshield during winter driving,
requiring the frequent use of the washers
and wipers. Volvo Washer Solvent should
be diluted as follows:
•
Down to 14 ° F (–10 ° C): 1 part washer
solvent and 4 parts water
•
Down to 5 ° F (–15 ° C): 1 part washer sol-
vent and 3 parts water
•
Down to 0 ° F (–18 ° C):1 part washer sol-
vent and 2 parts water
•
Down to –18 ° F (–28 ° C): 1 part washer
solvent and 1 part water
•
Use Volvo Teflon Lock Spray in the locks.NOTE
Avoid the use of de-icing sprays as they can
cause damage to the locks.W – Winter/Wet driving mode – enhanced
vehicle traction•
Mode W will only function if the gear selec-
tor is in the (D)rive position.
•
Press the button at the base of the gear
selector to engage/disengage this driving
mode.
•
An LED in the button will light up to indicate
that W is engaged and this will also be dis-
played in the instrument panel (see
page 54).
•
This mode may be selected for starting/
moving off on slippery roads.
1Synthetic oil is not used when the oil is changed at the normal maintenance service intervals except at owner request and at additional charge. Please consult your Volvo retailer.

06 Starting and drivingBefore a long distance trip
06158
It is always worthwhile to have your vehicle
checked by a trained and qualified Volvo serv-
ice technician before driving long distances.
Your retailer or service technician will also be
able to supply you with bulbs, fuses, spark
plugs and wiper blades for your use in the event
that problems occur.
As a minimum, the following items should be
checked before any long trip:•
Check that engine runs smoothly and that
fuel consumption is normal.
•
Check for fuel, oil, and fluid leakage.
•
Check transmission oil level
1.
•
Check condition of drive belts.
•
Check state of the battery's charge.
•
Examine tires carefully (the spare tire as
well), and replace those that are worn.
Check tire pressures.
•
The brakes, front wheel alignment, and
steering gear should be checked by a
trained and qualified Volvo service techni-
cian only.
•
Check all lights, including high beams.
•
Reflective warning triangles are legally
required in some states/provinces.
•
Have a word with your Volvo retailer if you
intend to drive in countries where it may be
difficult to obtain the correct fuel.
•
Consider your destination. If you will be
driving through an area where snow or ice
are likely to occur, consider snow tires.
1To prevent injury from contact with hot surfaces, do not inspect your vehicle’s transmission fluid yourself. Have your vehicle’s transmission fluid level inspected by a qualified Volvo service technician.

06 Starting and drivingBlind Spot Information System
06``159
G020295
BLIS cameraIndicator lightBLIS symbol
The Blind Spot Information System (BLIS) is an
information system that indicates the presence
of another vehicle moving in the same direction
as your vehicle in the side-view mirror's "blind
area."
The system is based on digital camera tech-
nology. The cameras (1) are located beneath
the side-view mirrors.
When one (or both) of the cameras have
detected a vehicle in the blind area (up to
approximately 10 ft. (3 meters) from the side ofyour vehicle, and up to approximately 31 ft.
(9.5 meters) behind the side-view mirror), see
the illustration, the indicator light in the door
panel (2) illuminates. The light will glow contin-
uously to alert the driver of the vehicle in the
blind area.
WARNING
•
BLIS is an information system, NOT a
warning or safety system.
•
BLIS does not eliminate the need for
you to visually confirm the conditions
around you, and the need for you to turn
your head and shoulders to make sure
that you can safely change lanes.
•
As the driver, you have full responsibility
for changing lanes in a safe manner.NOTE
The door panel indicator light illuminates on
the side of the vehicle where the system has
detected another vehicle. If your vehicle is
passed on both sides at the same time, both
lights will illuminate.
A B
G020296
Areas monitored by BLISDistance A = approx. 10 ft. (3 meters)
Distance B = approx. 31 ft. (9.5 meters)
BLIS has an integrated function that alerts the
driver if a fault should occur with the system.
For example, if one or both of the system's
cameras are obscured, a message ( see the
table on page 161) will appear in the informa-
tion display in the instrument panel. If this
occurs, clean the camera lenses. If necessary,
the system can be temporarily switched off (for
instructions, see page 161).When does BLIS functionThe system functions when your vehicle is
moving at speeds above 6 mph (10 km/h).