Overloading the starter battery

High power consumption without the car being able to charge the starter battery leads to low battery level and some electric functions being reduced or switched off. If the battery level decreases to below a certain limit, it is not possible to start the car without jump starting or charging with an external charger.

There are several measures that reduce power consumption. Avoid using the ignition position II when the car is switched off. Instead, use ignition position I - which consumes less power. Do not use functions which use a lot of power when the car is not being driven. Examples of such functions are:

  • ventilation fan
  • headlamps
  • windscreen wiper
  • audio system
  • accessories that are activated in the car.

If the battery level is low, a message is shown in the driver display. The energy-saving function then shuts down certain functions or reduces certain functions such as the ventilation fan and audio system.

In which case, charge the starter battery by starting the car and then running it for at least 15 minutes - starter battery charging is more effective during driving than running the engine at idling speed while stationary.

If the battery level continues to be low after the measures have been taken, the car should be checked at a workshop – an authorised Volvo workshop is recommended.

 Note

High current take-off may lead to low battery level, which temporarily limits the start/stop function. The engine then starts automatically without the driver lifting his/her foot from the brake pedal.

For cars with manual gearbox, the start/stop function is deactivated without the clutch pedal being depressed if the gear lever is in neutral position. The start/stop function will be available again when there is a sufficient level in the battery.