Economical Driving - Volvo XC90 Owner's Manual

06 Starting and driving

Economical driving

Economical driving conserves natural
resources
Better driving economy may be obtained by
thinking ahead, avoiding rapid starts and
stops and adjusting the speed of your vehicle
to immediate traffic conditions. Observe the
following rules:
•
Bring the engine to normal operating tem-
perature as soon as possible by driving
with a light foot on the accelerator pedal
for the first few minutes of operation. A
cold engine uses more fuel and is subject
to increased wear.
•
Whenever possible, avoid using the vehi-
cle for driving short distances. This does
not allow the engine to reach normal
operating temperature.
•
Drive carefully and avoid rapid accelera-
tion and hard braking.
06
•
Use the transmission's D (Drive) position
as often as possible and avoid using
"kickdown" to help improve fuel econ-
omy.
•
Do not exceed posted speed limits.
•
Avoid carrying unnecessary items (extra
load) in the vehicle.
•
Maintain correct tire pressure. Check tire
pressure regularly (when tires are cold).
•
Remove snow tires when threat of snow
or ice has ended.
146
•
Note that roof racks, ski racks, etc,
increase air resistance and also fuel con-
sumption.
•
At highway driving speeds, fuel consump-
tion will be lower with the air conditioning
on and the windows closed than with the
air conditioning off and the windows
open.
•
Using the onboard trip computer's fuel
consumption modes can help you learn
how to drive more economically.
Other factors that decrease gas mileage
are:
•
Dirty air cleaner
•
Dirty engine oil and clogged oil filter
•
Dragging brakes
•
Incorrect front end alignment.
Some of the above mentioned items and oth-
ers are checked at the standard Maintenance
Service intervals.
CAUTION
Drive slowly and carefully if going through
standing water (i.e. flooded roadways,
etc.). Damage to the engine could result if
excess water is drawn in through the air
intake system. Never drive the vehicle in
water deeper than 18 inches (48 cm).