Check the following in particular before a cold season:
- The engine coolant must contain 50% glycol. This mixture protects the engine against frost down to approx. -35°C (-31°F). To avoid health risks, different types of glycol must not be mixed.
- The fuel tank must be kept filled to prevent condensation.
- Engine oil viscosity is important. Oils with lower viscosity (thinner oils) facilitate starting in cold weather and also reduce fuel consumption while the engine is cold.
- The condition of the starter battery and charge level must be inspected. Cold weather places great demands on the starter battery and its capacity is reduced by the cold.
- The condition of the battery and its charge level must be inspected. Cold weather places higher demands on the battery and its capacity is reduced by the cold.
- Use washer fluid with antifreeze to avoid ice forming in the washer fluid reservoir.
See the separate section for engine oil recommendations.
Slippery driving conditions
To achieve optimum roadholding Volvo recommends using winter tyres on all wheels if there is a risk of snow or ice.
Note
The use of winter tyres is a legal requirement in certain countries. Studded tyres are not permitted in all countries.
Practise driving on slippery surfaces under controlled conditions to learn how the car reacts.