Starting And Driving - Volvo S 90 Owner's Manual

STARTING AND DRIVING

Starting and driving
The vehicle is equipped with features that sup-
plement its basic functions, such as shifting
gears with steering wheel paddles* and the fuel-
conserving start/stop function.
The vehicle is equipped with an automatic trans-
mission that also makes it possible to shift gears
manually.
Certain functions can also be used when the
engine is not running, depending on the ignition
mode being used.
Related information
•
Starting the engine (p. 382)
•
Ignition modes (p. 380)
•
Automatic transmission (p. 392)
•
Opening/closing the fuel filler door (p. 374)
•
Start/Stop (p. 389)
•
Parking brake (p. 361)
356
Brakes
The brake system is a hydraulic system consist-
ing of two separate brake circuits. If a problem
should occur in one of these circuits, it is still
possible to stop the vehicle with the other brake
circuit.
Brake system
If one of the brake circuits is not functioning,
more pressure will be needed on the brake pedal
(and the pedal will go down farther) for normal
braking effect.
If the brake pedal must be depressed farther
than normal and requires greater foot pressure,
the stopping distance will be longer.
Pressure on the brake pedal is enhanced by the
power braking function.
The power brakes only function when the engine
is running.
When the Hill Start Assist function is being used,
it will take slightly longer for the brake pedal to
return to its normal position if the vehicle is
parked on an incline or uneven surface.
When driving in very hilly areas or if the vehicle is
carrying a heavy load, manual gear shifting can
be used for engine braking to augment the
brakes. Hill Descent Control can also be used on
steep downgrades to increase the engine braking
effect at low speeds.
Anti-lock Braking System ABS
The ABS system helps to improve vehicle control
(stopping and steering) during severe braking
conditions by limiting brake lockup.
When ABS is operating, there may be some
vibration in the brake pedal, which is normal.
The system performs a brief self-diagnostic test
when the engine has been started and driver
releases the brake pedal. Another automatic test
may be performed when the vehicle first reaches
a speed of approximately 6 mph (10 km/h). The
brake pedal will pulsate several times and a
sound may be audible from the ABS control
module, which is normal.
Cleaning the brake discs
Coatings of dirt and water on the brake discs
may result in delayed brake function. This delay is
minimized by cleaning the brake linings.
Cleaning the brake pads is advisable in wet
weather, prior to long-term parking, and after the
vehicle has been washed. Do this by braking gen-
tly for a short period while the vehicle is moving.
Driving on wet or salted roads
Prolonged driving on wet or salted roads can
affect brake function and increase stopping dis-
tance. Be sure to keep a safe distance to the
vehicle ahead when driving under these condi-
tions.
* Option/accessory, for more information, see Introduction.