Volvo XC90 TWIN ENGINE 2018 Owner's Manual page 447

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. 541)
• Filling washer fluid (p. 638)
• Winter driving (p. 445)
• Economical driving (p. 441)
• Vehicle modem settings (p. 519)
• Loading recommendations (p. 572)
• Driving with a trailer (p. 456)
• Pilot Assist (p. 298)
• Tire sealing system (p. 556)
Winter driving
It is important to check the vehicle before driving
in cold/snowy conditions to make sure it can be
driven safely.
Before the cold season arrives:
• Make sure the engine coolant contains 50%
antifreeze. This mixture helps protect the
engine from frost erosion down to
approx. -35 °C (-31 °F). Do not mix different
types of antifreeze as this could pose a
health risk.
• Keep the fuel tank well filled to prevent con-
densation from forming.
• Check the viscosity of the engine oil. Oil with
low viscosity (thinner oil) improves cold-
weather starting and reduces fuel consump-
tion when driving with a cold engine.
CAUTION
Low-viscosity oil should not be used with hard
driving or in hot weather.
• Check the condition and charge level of the
start battery. Cold weather places greater
demands on the start battery and reduces its
capacity.
• Use washer fluid containing antifreeze to
help prevent ice from forming in the washer
fluid reservoir.
STARTING AND DRIVING
Slippery driving conditions
For optimal traction and roadholding, Volvo rec-
ommends using snow tires on all wheels when-
ever there is a risk of snow or ice on the road.
NOTE
Certain countries require use of winter tires
by law. Not all countries permit the use of
studded tires.
Practice driving on slippery surfaces under con-
trolled conditions to learn how the vehicle reacts.
Related information
• Snow tires (p. 555)
• Snow chains (p. 555)
• Braking on salted roads (p. 415)
• Braking on wet roads (p. 415)
• Filling washer fluid (p. 638)
• Start battery (p. 602)
• Replacing windshield wiper blades (p. 636)
• Changing rear window wipers (p. 635)
• Refilling coolant (p. 599)
445