The vehicle is equipped with two brake circuits. If one brake circuit is damaged, the brake pedal will go down further when depressed. More pressure will then be required from the driver for normal braking effect.
Warning
In very hilly areas or when driving with a heavy load, gear position B can be used to augment the brakes with engine braking.
Anti-lock brakes
The vehicle is equipped with an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), which can help prevent the wheels from locking and help maintain steering control when braking. Vibrations may be felt from the brake pedal when ABS is operating, which is normal.
After the vehicle is started, a brief test of the ABS system is automatically performed when the driver releases the brake pedal. An additional automatic test of the system may be performed when the vehicle is traveling at a low speed. During the test, the brake pedal may feel as though it is pulsating.
Light braking charges the hybrid battery
When the brakes are applied lightly, the electric motor braking function is used. This converts the vehicle's kinetic energy into electrical energy, which is used to charge the hybrid battery. When the battery is being charged with the electric motor braking function, this will be indicated in the instrument panel.
This function is active at speeds in the range of 150-5 km/h (93-3 mph). When braking at speeds outside of this range, or during harder braking, the hydraulic braking system is used to augment braking. This is indicated in the instrument panel with the pointer down in the red area.
Symbols in the instrument panel
| Symbol | Meaning |
|---|---|
  | Check the brake fluid level. If the level is low, fill brake fluid and check to determine the reason for the loss of brake fluid. |
 | Fault in pedal sensor. |
  | Steady glow for 2 seconds after the engine is started: Automatic function check. Steady glow for more than 2 seconds: Fault in the ABS system. The vehicle's regular brake system is still working, but without the ABS function. |
 | If the message Brake pedal Characteristics changed Service required is displayed, the "Brake-by-wire" system is not functioning properly. The brake pedal will go down further than normal and greater pressure will be needed on the pedal to achieve braking effect. |
Warning
- If both symbols illuminate at the same time and the brake level is below the MIN mark in the reservoir or if a brake system-related message is shown in the instrument panel: DO NOT DRIVE. Have the vehicle towed to a trained and qualified Volvo service technician and have the brake system inspected.
- If both symbols illuminate at the same time and the brake level is normal (not below the MIN mark in the reservoir) or if a brake system-related message is shown in the instrument panel: drive the vehicle carefully to an authorized Volvo workshop and have the brake system inspected by a trained and qualified Volvo service technician.