Fuel - diesel
Only use diesel fuel from well-known producers. Never use fuel of dubious quality. Diesel engines are sensitive to contaminants in the fuel such as metals and a high volume of sulphur.
At low temperatures (-6 °C to -40 °C), a paraffin precipitate may form in the diesel fuel, which may lead to ignition problems. Special diesel fuel designed for low temperatures around freezing point is available from the major oil companies. This fuel is less viscous at low temperatures and reduces the risk of paraffin precipitate.
The risk of condensation in the fuel tank is reduced if the tank is kept well filled. When refuelling, check that the area around the fuel filler pipe is clean. Avoid spilling fuel onto the paintwork. Wash off any spillage with detergent and water.
Important
Diesel type fuels that must not be used:
- Special additives
- Marine diesel fuel
- Heating oil
- FAME1 (Fatty Acid Methyl Ester) and vegetable oil.
These fuels do not fulfil the requirements in accordance with Volvo recommendations and generate increased wear and engine damage that is not covered by the Volvo warranty.
Empty tank
The design of the fuel system in a diesel engine means that if the vehicle runs out of fuel, the tank may need to be vented in the workshop in order to restart the engine after fuelling.
Once the engine has stopped due to fuel starvation, the fuel system needs a few moments to carry out a check. Do this before starting the engine, once the fuel tank has been filled with diesel:
- Insert the remote control key in the ignition switch and push it in to the end position, see Key positions.
- Press the START button without depressing the brake and/or clutch pedal.
- Wait approx. one minute.
- To start the engine: Depress the brake and/or clutch pedal and then press the START button again.
Note
Before filling with fuel in the event of fuel shortage:
- Stop the car on as flat/level ground as possible - if the car is tilting there is a risk of air pockets in the fuel supply.
Draining condensation from the fuel filter
The fuel filter separates condensation from the fuel. Condensation can disrupt engine operation.
The fuel filter must be drained at the intervals specified in the Service and Warranty Booklet or if you suspect that the car has been filled with contaminated fuel, see Volvo service programme.