2008 Volvo S40 Owner's Manual - Page 136

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. Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD) EBD is an integrated part of the ABS system. EBD regulates the hydraulic pressure to the rear brakes to help provide optimal braking capacity. 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. WARNING If the BRAKE and ABS warning symbols light at the same time, there may be a problem in the brake system. If the brake fluid level is normal in these circumstances, drive carefully to the nearest trained and qualified Volvo service technician to have the brake system checked. Emergency Brake Assistance - EBA EBA is designed to provide full brake effect immediately in the event of sudden, hard braking. The system is activated by the speed with which the brake pedal is depressed. When the EBA system is activated, the brake pedal will go down and pressure in the brake system immediately increases to the maximum level. Maintain full pressure on the brake pedal in order to utilize the system completely.