Volvo 2008 S40 Owner's Manual page 133

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.
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06 Starting and driving
Automatic transmission
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.
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06 Starting and driving
Automatic transmission
Text messages and actions
In certain situations, the message may appear in the display and the information or warning symbol may illuminate.
The table shows two levels of severity if the transmission should overheat. In addition to the message in the display,
the driver will also be aware that the vehicle's electrical system has temporarily changed the driving characteristics.
Follow the instructions in the display.
See also page 57 for additional messages pertaining to the automatic transmission.
The message will disappear after the displayed action has been taken or if the READ button on the turn signal lever
has been pressed.
NOTE