Brake System - Volvo 2006 XC70 Owner's Manual

BRAKE
Brake circuit malfunction
NOTE:
not
WARNING!
NOTE: When the car is at a standstill and the engine is idling, e.g. at a
traffic light and the brake pedal is depressed, the pedal may go down
slightly. This is normal and is caused by an built-in function in the
power brake system.
Power brakes function only when the engine
is running

Brake system

Water on brake discs and brake pads affects
braking
Driving in rain and slush or passing through an automatic car wash can
cause water to collect on the brake discs and pads. This will cause a
delay in braking effect when the pedal is depressed. To avoid such a
delay when the brakes are needed, depress the pedal occasionally when
driving through rain, slush etc. This will remove the water from the
brakes. Check that brake application feels normal. This should also be
done after washing or starting in very damp or cold weather.
Severe strain on the brake system
The brakes will be subject to severe strain when driving in mountains or
hilly areas or towing. Vehicle speed is usually slower, which means that
the cooling of the brakes is less efficient than when driving on level
roads. To reduce the strain on the brakes, shift into a lower gear and let
the engine help with the braking. Do not forget that, if you are towing a
trailer, the brakes will be subjected to a greater than normal load.
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