Level control* and shock absorption
Level control regulates the car's suspension and shock absorption characteristics automatically to ensure optimum comfort and functionality while driving. It is also possible to adjust the level manually in order to facilitate loading or entry and exit.
Level control and shock absorption
The system is adapted according to the selected drive mode and according to the speed of the car. Using level control, the car's ground clearance is adjusted to a lower level at higher speeds, which reduces wind resistance and increases stability. Shock absorption is normally set for optimum comfort and is regulated continuously depending on the road surface, the car's acceleration, braking and cornering.
![P5-S90/V90/XC90-1617-Driver display-Soul symbol-Height adjustment](https://www.volvocars.com/images/support/img2252d84f8e46ca13c0a801526187ca64_1_--_--_VOICEpnghigh.png?imwidth=1280)
The driver display indicates when level control is in progress.
- If a side door is open, the level can only be regulated upwards.
- If the tailgate is open, the level can only be regulated downwards.
During parking
During parking, make sure you allow adequate space above and below the car since the car's ground clearance may vary e.g. depending on the outside temperature, how the car is loaded, the use of loading mode or the drive mode that is selected after starting.
The level may also be adjusted some time after the car has been parked. This is to compensate for any changes in height that may occur due to temperature changes in the air springs when the car cools down.
During transport
During transport of the car on a ferry, train or truck, the car must be lashed around the tyres and not around other parts of the chassis. Changes in the level control may occur during transport, which could have a negative effect on the lashing.
Symbols and messages
If a fault arises with the level control, a message is shown in the driver display.
Symbol | Message | Specification |
---|---|---|
![]() | Suspension Deactivated by user | The active self-levelling has been switched off manually by the user. |
![]() | Suspension Temporarily reduced performance | The performance of the active self-levelling has been temporarily reduced due to extensive system use. |
![]() | Suspension Service required | A fault has occurred. Visit a workshop1 as soon as possible. |
![]() | Suspension failure Stop safely | A critical fault has occurred. Stop safely, have the car towed to a workshop1. |
![]() | Suspension Slow down Car too high | A fault has occurred. If the message appears whilst driving, contact a workshop1. |
![]() | Suspension Auto adjusting car level | Level control to target height in progress. |