Volvo XC90 Owner's Manual page 426

STARTING AND DRIVING
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• The trip computer's current fuel consumption
indicator can help promote more fuel-effi-
cient driving.
• Do not warm up the engine by idling. It is
better to begin driving normally immediately
after starting the engine. A cold engine uses
more fuel than a warm engine.
• Whenever possible, avoid using the vehicle to
drive short distances. The engine does not
have time to reach a normal operating tem-
perature and this leads to increased fuel
consumption.
• Use engine braking to brake the vehicle,
when this is safe for other road users.
• Maintain the correct pressure in the tires and
check pressure regularly.
• The type of tires used could affect fuel con-
sumption - consult a retailer for advice on
suitable tires.
• Remove unnecessary items from the vehicle
- the heavier the load, the higher the fuel
consumption.
• Roof loads increase air resistance and
increase fuel consumption. Remove roof
boxes, ski racks, etc. that are not in use.
• Avoid driving with the windows open.
424
WARNING
Never turn off the engine while the vehicle is
moving, e.g. when driving downhill. This deac-
tivates certain important systems such as
power steering and brakes.
Other factors that decrease fuel
consumption
• Dirty air cleaner.
• Dirty engine oil and clogged oil filter.
• Incorrect front-end alignment.
• Incorrect wheel alignment.
Some of the above items and others are checked
as part of Volvo's standard maintenance sched-
ule.
Related information
Drive-E ‒ purer driving pleasure (p. 27)
•
• Eco drive mode (p. 410)
• Checking tire pressure (p. 519)
Preparing for a long trip
It is important to have the vehicle's systems and
equipment checked carefully before driving long
distances.
Check that
• the engine is running properly and that fuel
consumption is normal
• there are no leaks (fuel, oil or other fluid)
• the brake pedal is functioning optimally
all lights are working ‒ adjust the headlight
•
height if the vehicle is carrying a heavy load
• tire tread depth and air pressure are at cor-
rect levels. Change to snow tires when driv-
ing in areas where there is a risk of snowy or
icy roads
• the start battery is sufficiently charged
• the wiper blades are in good condition
Related information
• Checking tire pressure (p. 519)
• Filling washer fluid (p. 620)
• Winter driving (p. 425)
• Economical driving (p. 423)
• Vehicle modem settings (p. 497)
• Loading recommendations (p. 550)
• Driving with a trailer (p. 435)
• Pilot Assist (p. 298)
• Tire sealing system (p. 535)