2008 Volvo C70 Owner's Manual - Page 135
2008 Volvo C70 Manual
Page 135 highlights
brake system inspected. Power brakes function only when the engine is running The power brakes utilize vacuum pressure which is only created when the engine is running. Never let the vehicle roll to a stop with the engine switched off. If the power brakes are not working, the brake pedal must be pressed approximately five times harder than usual to make up for the lack of power assistance. This can happen for example when towing your vehicle or if the engine is switched off when the vehicle is rolling. The brake pedal feels harder than usual. Water on brake discs and brake pads affects braking Driving in rain and slush or passing through an automatic car wash can cause water to collect on the brake discs and pads. This will cause a delay in braking effect when the pedal is depressed. To avoid such a delay when the brakes are needed, depress the pedal occasionally when driving through rain, slush, etc. This will remove the water from the brakes. Check that brake application feels normal. This should also be done after washing or starting in very damp or cold weather. Severe strain on the brake system The brakes will be subject to severe strain when driving in mountains or hilly areas, or when towing a trailer. Vehicle speed is usually slower, which means that the cooling of the brakes is less efficient than when driving on level roads. To reduce the strain on the brakes, shift into a lower gear and let the engine help with the braking. Do not forget that if you are towing a trailer, the brakes will be subjected to a greater than normal load. Anti-lock brakes (ABS) The Anti-lock Braking System ( ABS ) helps to improve vehicle control (stopping and steering) during severe braking conditions by limiting brake lockup. When the system "senses" impending lockup, braking pressure is automatically modulated in order to help prevent lockup that could lead to a skid. The system performs a self-diagnostic test when the engine is started and when the vehicle first reaches a speed of approximately 12 m.p.h. (20 km/h). The brake pedal will pulsate several times and a sound may be audible from the ABS control module. This is normal. 148 06 Starting and driving Brake system For optimal ABS braking effect: 1. Press down on the brake pedal with full force. The pedal will pulsate. 2. Steer the vehicle in the direction of travel and keep the brake pedal depressed. The switching of the ABS modulator will be audible and the brake pedal will pulsate during braking. Please be aware that ABS does not increase the absolute braking potential of the vehicle. While control will be enhanced, ABS will not shorten stopping distances on slippery surfaces. If the warning lamp lights up there is a malfunction of the ABS system (the standard braking system will still function) and the vehicle should be driven cautiously to a trained and qualified Volvo service technician for inspection. Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD)