Handling And Road Holding - Volvo S60 Owner's Manual

2007 Volvo S60
pg. 114 Starting and driving

Handling and road holding

Weight distribution affects handling
At the specified curb weight your vehicle has a tendency to understeer, which means that the steering
wheel has to be turned more than might seem appropriate for the curvature of a bend.
This ensures good stability and reduces the risk of rear wheel skid. Remember that these properties can
alter with the vehicle load. The heavier the load in the trunk (max. 220 lbs, 100 kg), the less the
tendency to understeer.
Handling, roadholding
Vehicle load, tire design and inflation pressure all affect vehicle handling. Therefore, check that the tires
are inflated to the recommended pressure according to the vehicle load. See "Tire pressure" section.
Loads should be distributed so that capacity weight or maximum permissible axle loads are not exceeded.
Speed-sensitive power steering (Option on certain models)
With this feature, the steering is most responsive at lower speeds to make parking, driving in city traffic,
etc., easier. The effect of the power steering diminishes as you accelerate for greater stability at highway
speeds.
Driving through water
The vehicle can be driven through water up to a depth of approximately 9 in. (25 cm), at a maximum
speed of 6 mph (10 km/h).
Take particular care when driving through flowing water.
Clean the electrical connections for trailer wiring after driving in mud or water When driving through
water, maintain low speed and do not stop in the water.
WARNING!
After driving through water, press lightly on the brake pedal to ensure that the brakes are functioning
normally. Water or mud can make the brake linings slippery, resulting in delayed braking effect.
file:///K|/ownersdocs/2007/2007_S60/07s60_06.htm (12 of 41)12/30/2006 5:46:01 PM