Engine cooling system
A good quality anti-freeze/summer coolant should be used all the year round. The cooling system should
always contain water plus anti-freeze and rust inhibitor, even during the summer. Experience has also
shown that extremely weak anti-freeze solutions (10-25 percent) are ineffective for rust protection. For
this reason, the quantity of anti-freeze/summer coolant should amount to about 50 percent of the
solution, that is 5.0 US qts. = 4.8 liters/4.3 Imp qts. This lowers the freezing point to -30° F (-35° C).
Alcohol must not be used as an anti-freeze agent since it evaporates at normal engine temperature.
Engine fuel system
During the winter, large variations in temperature cause condensation to form in the fuel tank and can
impair the running of the engine. This can be eliminated by adding special additives to the fuel. There is
less risk of condensation forming in the fuel tank if it is kept full.
Engine lubricating system
During the winter, multigrade oil 10W-40 should be used in the engine. At very low temperatures, below
0° F (-20° C), multigrade oil SAE 5W-20 or SAE 5W-30 is recommended. These oils reach the
lubricating points in the engine more easily at low temperature and also facilitate cold starting. See
section titled "Engine Oil".
Electrical system
The electrical system is subject to great stresses during the winter. Lighting and starter motor are used
more often. The battery capacity is impaired at low air temperature. The state of charge must be checked
more frequently, and if necessary the battery should be charged. The battery may freeze if the state of
charge is low.
Brake system
During cold weather the brakes are subject to splash and condensation which can result in the parking
brake freezing up, especially if applied for long periods of time. Use of first or reverse gear on a manual
transmission or position "P" on an automatic transmission is preferable during these conditions. See
section titled "Brake System".
Windshield washers
Anti-freeze should also be added to the water container for the windshield and rear window (tailgate,
wagon model) washer.
This is particularly important during the winter because the windshield frequently becomes dirty and is
often splashed with water which rapidly freezes. This may necessitate the frequent use of the windshield
washer and wipers. Your Volvo dealer can supply you with suitable anti-freeze for this purpose.
Anti-freeze for door locks
Lubricate the outside locks with a suitable anti-freeze. Such agents are commercially available and
should be used before the first frost.
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