Volvo V50 (2012 year). Instruction

08 Car care

Touching up paintwork

214

Paintwork

Paint is an important part of the car's rust-
proofing and should therefore be checked reg-
ularly. To avoid the onset of rust, damaged
paintwork should be rectified immediately. The
most common types of paintwork damage are
stone chips, scratches, and marks on the
edges of wings and doors.

Colour code

Data plate.

Code for car colour

It is important that the correct colour is used.
For product decal location, see page 286.

Stone chips and scratches

G020345

Before touching up paintwork, the car must be
clean and dry and at a temperature above
15 °C.

Materials

•

Primer in a can

•

Spray can or touch-up pen

•

Masking tape.

Minor stone chips and scratches

If the stone chip has not penetrated to the bare
metal and there is an undamaged colour coat,
you can paint straight after cleaning the dam-
aged area.

If the stone chip has penetrated to the
bare metal

Apply a piece of masking tape over the
damaged surface. Then remove the tape to
remove any loose paint.

Stir the primer well and apply using a fine
brush or a matchstick. Apply paint using a
brush once the primer is dry.

For scratches, proceed as above, but
mask around the damaged area to protect
the undamaged paintwork.

After a few days, polish the touched-up
areas. Use a soft rag and a small amount
of lapping paste.

Follow the instructions contained in the touch-up pen's packaging.

08 Car care

Rustproofing

215

Inspection and maintenance

Your car has already received a thorough and
complete rustproofing at the factory. Parts of
the body are made of galvanised sheet metal.
The underbody is protected by a wear-resis-
tant anti-corrosion compound. A thin, pene-
trating rustproofing fluid was sprayed into the
members, cavities and closed sections.

Maintain the car's rustproofing.

•

Keep the car clean. Hose down the under-
body. If using a pressure washer, keep the
nozzle at least 30 cm from the painted sur-
faces.

•

Regularly check and touch-up the rust-
proofing treatment as necessary.

The car's rustproofing does not normally
require treatment for approximately 12 years.
After this period, it should be treated at three-
year intervals. If the car needs further treat-
ment, Volvo recommends that you engage an
authorised Volvo workshop for assistance.

09 Maintenance and service

Volvo service

218

Volvo service programme

Before the car left the factory, it was thoroughly
test driven. It was checked again in accord-
ance with Volvo Car Corporation regulations
before it was handed over to you.

To keep your Volvo as safe and reliable as pos-
sible, follow the Volvo service programme
specified in the Service and Warranty Booklet.
Volvo also recommends that you engage an
authorised Volvo workshop to perform the
service and maintenance work. Volvo work-
shops have the personnel, special tools and
service literature to guarantee the highest qual-
ity of service.

IMPORTANT

For the Volvo warranty to apply, check and
follow the instructions in the Service and
Warranty Booklet.

Special service measures

Certain service measures which affect the car's
electrical system can only be performed using
electronic equipment specially developed for
your car. For this reason, Volvo recommends
that you always contact an authorised Volvo
workshop before beginning or performing
service work that affects the electrical system.

09 Maintenance and service

Self-maintenance

219

Before starting work on the car

Battery

Check that the battery cables are correctly
connected and tightened.

Never disconnect the battery when the engine
is running (e.g. if replacing the battery).

Never use a quick charger to charge the bat-
tery. The battery cables must be disconnected
when charging the battery.

The battery contains acid that is both corrosive
and toxic. It is therefore important to handle the
battery in an environmentally correct manner.
Let your Volvo dealer assist you.

WARNING

The ignition system has very high voltage
and output. The voltage in the ignition sys-
tem is highly dangerous. The ignition must
therefore always be switched off for work in
the engine compartment.

Do not touch the spark plugs or ignition coils
when the ignition is on or the engine is hot.

Raising the car

NOTE

Volvo recommends only using the jack that
belongs to the car model in question. If a
jack is selected other than the one recom-
mended by Volvo, follow the instructions for
use supplied with the equipment.

If the car is raised with a workshop jack; posi-
tion the jack against the front edge on the sub-
frame.

Do not damage the splashguard under the
engine. Ensure that the jack is positioned so
that the car cannot slide off the jack. Always
use axle stands or similar.

If you raise the car using a two-pillar workshop
lift, ensure that the front and rear lift arms are
fixed under the lifting points. See preceding
illustration.

Check regularly

Check the following at regular intervals, for
example, when refuelling:

•

Coolant – The level must be between the
MIN and MAX marks on the expansion
tank.

•

Engine oil – The level must be between the
MIN and MAX marks.

•

Power steering fluid – The level must be
between the MIN and MAX marks.

•

Washer fluid – The reservoir should be well
filled. Fill washer fluid with antifreeze at
temperatures around freezing point.

•

Brake and clutch fluid – The level must be
between the MIN and MAX marks.

WARNING

Remember that the radiator fan (located at
the front of the engine compartment, behind
the radiator) may start automatically some
after the engine has been switched off.

Always have the engine cleaned by a work-
shop. There is a risk of fire if the engine is
hot.

09 Maintenance and service

Bonnet and engine compartment

220

Opening the bonnet

G020793

The illustration shows a left-hand drive car.

Pull the handle on the far left under the
instrument panel. (In right-hand drive cars
the handle is on the far right.) You will hear
when the catch releases.

Insert your hand under the centre of the
front edge of the bonnet and press the
safety catch to the right.

Open the bonnet.

WARNING

Check that the bonnet locks properly when
closed.

Engine compartment

Washer fluid reservoir (4-cyl.)

Coolant expansion tank

Reservoir for the power steering fluid (con-
cealed behind the headlamp)

Dipstick

for engine oil

Radiator

Radiator fan

Washer fluid reservoir (5-cyl.)

Brake and clutch fluid reservoir (right-hand
drive)

Filling the engine oil

Brake and clutch fluid reservoir (left-hand
drive)

Engines with electronic oil level sensor have no dipstick (5-cyl. diesel).

The location varies depending on engine alternative.

09 Maintenance and service

Oils and fluids

222

Checking the engine oil

Volvo recommends Castrol oil products.

IMPORTANT

Always use oil of the prescribed grade.
Check the oil level frequently and change
the oil regularly. The engine will be damaged
if lower grade oil is used or if the car is driven
with the oil level too low.

When driving under adverse conditions, see
page 292.

IMPORTANT

In order to fulfil the requirements for the
engine's service intervals all engines are
filled with a specially adapted synthetic
engine oil at the factory. The choice of oil
has been made very carefully with regard to
service life, starting characteristics, fuel
consumption and environmental impact.

An approved engine oil must be used in
order that the recommended service inter-
vals can be applied. Only use a prescribed
grade of oil for both filling and oil change,
otherwise you will risk affecting service life,
starting characteristics, fuel consumption
and environmental impact.

Volvo Car Corporation disclaims all war-
ranty liability if engine oil of the prescribed
grade and viscosity is not used.

Volvo recommends that oil changes are car-
ried out at an authorised Volvo workshop.

Volvo uses different systems for warning of
low/high oil level or low/high oil pressure. Cer-
tain variants have an oil pressure sensor, and
then the lamp for oil pressure is used. Other
variants have an oil level sensor, and then the
driver is informed via the warning symbol in the
centre of the instrument unit as well as by dis-
play texts. Certain models have both variants.
Contact a Volvo dealer for more information.

Change the engine oil and oil filter in accord-
ance with the intervals specified in the Service
and Warranty Booklet.

Using oil of a higher than specified grade is
permitted. If the car is driven in adverse con-
ditions, Volvo recommends using an oil of a
higher grade, see page 292.

For capacities, see page 293 and onwards.

Engine with oil dipstick

Petrol engine.

Dipstick, petrol engines.

Filler pipe, engine oil.

Only applies to petrol and 4-cyl. diesel.

09 Maintenance and service

Oils and fluids

223

Diesel engine.

Dipstick, 4-cyl diesel engines.

Filler pipe, engine oil.

Checking the oil level in a new car is especially
important before the first scheduled oil change.

Volvo recommends checking the oil level every
2 500 km. The most accurate measurements
are made on a cold engine before starting. The
measurement will be inaccurate if taken imme-
diately after the engine is switched off. The
dipstick will indicate that the level is too low
because the oil has not had time to flow down
into the oil sump.

G020336

The oil level must be within the area marked on the
dipstick.

Measurement and filling if required

Ensure that the car is level. After switching
off the engine it is important to wait
5 minutes to allow the oil time to run back
to the sump.

Pull up and wipe the dipstick.

Re-insert the dipstick.

Pull it out and check the level.

If the level is close to MIN then 0.5 litres
should be added. If the level is significantly

below, then an additional amount is
required.

If required, check the level again, do it after
driving a short distance. Then repeat steps
1 - 4.

WARNING

Never fill above the MAX mark. The level
should never be above MAX or below MIN
as this could lead to engine damage.

WARNING

Do not spill oil onto the hot exhaust manifold
due to the risk of fire.

09 Maintenance and service

Oils and fluids

224

For engines with electronic oil level
sensor

Filler pipe.

You do not need to take action with respect to
the engine oil level before a message is shown
in the display, see the illustration below.

Message and graph in the display.

Message

Engine oil level

The oil level is checked using the electronic oil
level gauge with the thumbwheel when the
engine is switched off, see page 65.

WARNING

If the message

Oil service required

shown, visit a workshop. The oil level may
be too high.

IMPORTANT

In the event of the message

Oil level low,

Fill oil

, only fill with 0.5 litres.

NOTE

The oil level is only detected by the system
during driving. The system cannot directly
detect changes when the oil is filled or
drained. The car must be driven
about 30 km before the oil level display is
correct.

WARNING

Do not fill more oil if filling level (3) or (4)
appears as shown in the illustration below.
The level must never be above MAX or
below MIN, as this could lead to engine
damage.

WARNING

Do not spill oil onto the hot exhaust manifold
due to the risk of fire.

Only applies to 5-cyl. diesel.

Engines with electronic oil level sensor have no dipstick (5-cyl. diesel).

09 Maintenance and service

Oils and fluids

225

Measuring the oil level

If the oil level needs to be checked then it
should be carried out in accordance with the
sequence below.

Activate key position II, see page 154.

Rotate the thumbwheel on the left-hand
stalk switch to position

Engine oil level

Please wait...

> You will then see information displayed

about the engine oil level.

The figures 1-4 represent filling level. Do not fill
more oil if filling level (3) or (4) is shown. Recom-
mended filling level is 4.

Washer fluid, topping up

G020335

Location of washer fluid reservoir

The windscreen and headlamp washers share
a common reservoir.

For capacities, see the table Fluids on page
295.

Filler cap on 4-cylinder engines and diesel.

Filler cap on 5-cylinder engines.

Add washer fluid with antifreeze in the winter
so that the fluid does not freeze in the pump,
reservoir and hoses.

NOTE

Mix concentrated washer fluid with water
before filling.

TIP! Clean the wiper blades when topping up
washer fluid.

Checking and topping up the coolant

G020334

When topping up the coolant, follow the
instructions on the packaging. It is important
that the mixture of coolant concentrate and
water is correct for the prevailing weather con-
ditions. Never top up with water only. The risk

Depending on engine alternative.

09 Maintenance and service

Oils and fluids

226

of freezing increases with both too little and too
much coolant concentrate.

IMPORTANT

•

A high content of chlorine, chlorides
and other salts may cause corrosion in
the cooling system.

•

Always use coolant with anti-corrosion
agent as recommended by Volvo.

•

Ensure that the coolant mixture is 50%
water and 50% coolant.

•

Mix the coolant with approved quality
tap water. In the event of any doubt
about water quality, used ready-mixed
coolant in accordance with Volvo rec-
ommendations.

•

When changing coolant/replacing cool-
ing system components, flush the cool-
ing system clean with approved quality
tap water or flush with ready-mixed
coolant.

•

The engine must only be run with a well-
filled cooling system. Otherwise, tem-
peratures that are too high may occur
resulting in the risk of damage (cracks)
in the cylinder head.

For capacities and for standards regarding
water quality, see page 295.

Check the coolant regularly

The level must lie between the MIN and MAX
marks on the expansion tank. If the system is
not filled sufficiently, high local temperatures
could occur, causing a risk of damage (cracks)
to the cylinder head. Top up the coolant when
the level falls to the MIN mark.

WARNING

Coolant can be very hot. If the coolant
requires topping up when the engine is at
operating temperature, unscrew the expan-
sion tank cap slowly to gently release the
overpressure.

NOTE

The engine must only be run with a well-
filled cooling system. Otherwise, tempera-
tures that are too high may occur resulting
in the risk of damage (cracks) in the cylinder
head.

Checking and topping up the brake and
clutch fluid

G020333

09 Maintenance and service

Oils and fluids

227

Brake and clutch fluid have a common reser-
voir

. The fluid level must be between the

MIN and MAX marks. Check the level regularly.
Change the brake fluid every other year or at
every other regular service.

For capacities and recommended fluid grade,
see the table Fluids on page 295.

The fluid should be changed annually on cars
driven in conditions requiring hard, frequent
braking, such as driving in mountains or tropi-
cal climates with high humidity.

WARNING

If the brake fluid is under the MIN level in the
brake fluid reservoir, do not drive further
before topping up the brake fluid.

The reason for the loss of brake fluid must
be investigated.

Checking and topping up the power
steering fluid

NOTE

Check the level frequently.

The fluid does not require changing. For
capacities and recommended fluid grade, see
page 295.

If a fault should arise in the power steering sys-
tem or if the car is without power and must be
towed, it can still be steered. However, the
steering will be much heavier than normal and
it will require more effort to turn the steering
wheel.

Location dependent on whether car is left or right-hand drive.

09 Maintenance and service

Wiper blades

228

Wiper blades

G020330

NOTE

The wiper blades are different lengths. The
blade on the driver's side is longer than on
the other side.

Cleaning

For cleaning wiper blades and windscreen, see
page 210.

IMPORTANT

Check the wiper blades regularly.
Neglected maintenance shortens the serv-
ice life of the wiper blades.

Replacing the wiper blades, windscreen

Lift up the wiper arm.

Press the button located on the wiper
blade mounting and pull straight out (1),
parallel with the wiper arm.

Slide in (2) the new wiper blade until a
"click" is heard.

> Check (3) that the blade is firmly instal-

led and fold down the wiper arm.

Changing the rear window wiper blade

G014732

Fold out the wiper arm.

Detach the wiper blade by pulling it
towards the rear window.

Press the new wiper blade into position.

09 Maintenance and service

Battery

230

Operation

The service life and function of the battery is
influenced by factors such as the number of
starts, discharging, driving style, driving con-
ditions and climatic conditions.

•

Never disconnect the battery when the
engine is running.

•

Check that the cables to the battery are
correctly connected and properly tight-
ened.

WARNING

•

The battery can generate oxyhydrogen
gas, which is highly explosive. A spark
can be formed if a jump lead is con-
nected incorrectly, and this can be
enough for the battery to explode.

•

The battery contains sulphuric acid,
which can cause serious burns.

•

If sulphuric acid comes into contact
with eyes, skin or clothing, flush with
large quantities of water. If acid
splashes into the eyes - seek medical
attention immediately.

NOTE

The life of the battery is shortened if it
becomes discharged repeatedly.

The life of the battery is affected by several
factors, including driving conditions and cli-
mate. Battery starting capacity decreases
gradually with time and therefore needs to
be recharged if the car is not used for a
longer time or when it is only driven short
distances. Extreme cold further limits star-
ting capacity.

To maintain the battery in good condition, at
least 15 minutes of driving/week is recom-
mended or that the battery is connected to
a battery charger with automatic trickle
charging.

A battery that is kept fully charged has a
maximum service life.

Symbols on the battery

Use protective goggles.

Further information in the
owner's manual.

Store the battery out of
the reach of children.

The battery contains cor-
rosive acid.

09 Maintenance and service

Battery

Option/accessory, for more information, see Introduction.

231

Avoid sparks and naked
flames.

Risk of explosion.

Must be taken for recy-
cling.

NOTE

An expended battery must be recycled in an
environmentally correct manner as it con-
tains lead.

Changing the battery

Removal

Remove the remote control key from the
ignition switch.

Wait at least 5 minutes before touching any
electrical terminals.

> The car's electrical system needs to

store the necessary information to the
control modules.

Remove the cover.

Detach the black negative cable.

WARNING

Connect and remove the positive and neg-
ative cables in the correct order.

Detach the red positive cable.

Undo the front wall of the battery box using
a screwdriver.

Detach the ventilation hose from the bat-
tery.

Release the clamp securing the battery.

Remove the battery.

Fitting

Fit the battery into position.

Tighten the clamp that holds the battery.

Connect the ventilation hose.

> Check that it is correctly connected to

both battery and outlet in the body.

Reinstall the front wall of the battery box.

Connect the red positive cable.

Connect the black negative cable.

Attach the cover to the battery.

For more information on the car's battery - see
pages 181 and 301.

DRIVe Start/Stop*

Cars with the Start/Stop function are equipped
with two 12 V batteries - one extra powerful
battery for starting and one standby battery
that helps during the Start/Stop function's star-
ting sequence.

For more information on Start/Stop - see
page 165.

Volvo V50 (2012 year). Instruction - part 12