Air dam (front spoiler)
An air dam can negatively influence the normal flow of cooling air to the front wheel brakes. Therefore
special light alloy wheel rims should be used in conjunction with the air dam. (See page 69)
Moisture on brake discs and brake pads affects braking.
Driving in rain and slush or passing through a normal 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.
This will remove the water from the brakes. This should also be done after washing or starting in very
damp weather.
If the brake power assist does not function-
The power assist to the brakes functions only when the engine is running. When the car is moving
without the engine running the brake pedal pressure required to stop the car is increased 3-4 times.
The brake pedal feels stiff and hard.
If one of the brake circuits should malfunction the red warning light comes on
(F
page 6)
The pedal stroke increases slightly and the pedal feels softer but the pedal pressure required does not
increase noticeably.
Drive cautiously to a Volvo dealer or Service Station to have the brake system checked.
Breaking in parking brakes
To obtain best parking brake performance, the brake linings should be broken in.
Stop 5-7 times from 30 mph (50 km/h), transmission in neutral. Apply the parking brake lever, release
button pressed in during the stop.
The force must not lock the rear wheels. If this happens, release the brake enough to let the wheels
rotate. Drive a mile between each stop to cool the brakes. Check for proper parking brake operation.
NOTE:
The brake lights are not illuminated when applying the parking brake. To warn traffic from behind it is
therefore advisable to depress the brake pedal slightly to illuminate the stop lights.
Severe strain on the brake system.
The brakes will be subject to severe strain when driving in mountains or hilly areas.
The speed is usually low which means that the cooling of the brake is less efficient than when driving on
level roads.
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