Volvo S60 Owner's Manual page 272

STARTING AND DRIVING
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Brake pad inspection
On vehicles equipped with a jack*, the condition
of the brake pads can be checked by raising the
vehicle (see Changing a wheel – removing wheel
(p. 295) for information about using the jack and
removing a wheel) and performing a visual
inspection of the brake pads.
WARNING
•
If the vehicle has been driven immediately
prior to a brake pad inspection, the wheel
hub, brake components, etc., will be very
hot. Allow time for these components to
cool before carrying out the inspection.
•
Apply the parking brake and put the gear
selector in the Park (P) position.
•
Block the wheels standing on the ground,
use rigid wooden blocks or large stones.
270
WARNING
•
Use the jack intended for the vehicle
when changing a tire. For any other job,
use stands to support the vehicle.
•
The jack should be kept well-greased and
clean, and should not be damaged.
•
Be sure the jack is on a firm, level, non-
slippery surface.
•
No objects should be placed between the
base of jack and the ground, or between
the jack and the attachment bar on the
vehicle.
•
The jack must correctly engage the jack
attachment.
•
Never allow any part of your body to be
extended under a vehicle supported by a
jack.
Power brakes function only when the
engine is running
The power brakes utilize vacuum pressure which
is only created when the engine is running. Never
let the vehicle roll to a stop with the engine
switched off.
If the power brakes are not working, considerably
higher pressure will be required on the brake
pedal to compensate for the lack of power assis-
tance. This can happen for example when towing
your vehicle or if the engine is switched off when
the vehicle is rolling. The brake pedal feels harder
than usual.
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 when towing
a trailer. Vehicle speed is usually slower, which
means that the cooling of the brakes is less effi-
cient 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.
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.
* Option/accessory, for more information, see Introduction.