2012 Volvo XC70 Owner's Manual - Page 118

03 Your driving environment Brakes Brake system The brake system is a hydraulic system consisting of two separate brake circuits. If a problem should occur in one of these circuits, it is still possible to stop the vehicle with the other brake circuit. 03 Brake pad inspection On vehicles equipped with a jack*, the condition of the brake pads can be checked by raising the vehicle (see page 308 for information about using the jack and removing a wheel) and performing a visual inspection of the brake pads. WARNING • • • Use the jack intended for the vehicle when changing a tire. For any other job, use stands to support the vehicle. The jack should be kept well-greased and clean, and should not be damaged. Be sure the jack is on a firm, level, nonslippery surface. No objects should be placed between the base of jack and the ground, or between the jack and the attachment bar on the vehicle. The jack must correctly engage the jack attachment. Never allow any part of your body to be extended under a vehicle supported by a jack. If the brake pedal must be depressed farther than normal and requires greater foot pressure, the stopping distance will be longer. A warning light in the instrument panel will light up to warn the driver that a fault has occurred. If this light comes on while driving or braking, stop immediately and check the brake fluid level in the reservoir. WARNING • If the vehicle has been driven immediately prior to a brake pad inspection, the wheel hub, brake components, etc., will be very hot. Allow time for these components to cool before carrying out the inspection. Apply the parking brake and put the gear selector in the Park (P) position. Block the wheels standing on the ground, use rigid wooden blocks or large stones. • • • • NOTE Press the brake pedal hard and maintain pressure on the pedal - do not pump the brakes. • Brake lights The brake lights come on automatically when the brakes are applied. WARNING If the fluid level is below the MIN mark in the reservoir or if a brake system message is shown in the information display: DO NOT DRIVE. Have the vehicle towed to a trained and qualified Volvo service technician and have the brake system inspected. Adaptive brake lights The adaptive brake lights activate in the event of sudden braking or if the ABS system is activated. This function causes an additional taillight on each side of the vehicle to illuminate to help alert vehicles traveling behind. The adaptive brake lights activate if: 118 * Option/accessory, for more information, see Introduction.