2013 Volvo C70 Owner's Manual - Page 144

06 Starting and driving General information Conserving electrical current Keep the following in mind to help minimize battery drain: NOTE • • When the engine is not running, avoid turning the ignition key to position II. Many electrical systems (the audio system, the optional navigation system, power windows, etc) will function with the ignition key in position I. This position reduces drain on the battery. If the ignition is switched on, a warning message will be displayed in the text window in the instrument panel when the battery charge is low. An energy conserving function designed into the vehicle's electrical system will switch off certain functions or reduce the load on the battery by, e.g., reducing the audio system's volume. • Check state of the battery's charge. • Examine tires carefully (the spare tire as well), and replace those that are worn. Check tire pressures. • The brakes, front wheel alignment, and steering gear should be checked by your Volvo retailer only. • • Check all lights, including high beams. • Reflective warning triangles are legally required in some states/provinces. • Please keep in mind that using systems, accessories, etc that consume a great deal of current when the engine is not running could result in the battery being completely drained. Driving or having the engine running for approximately 15 minutes will help keep the battery charged. • Have a word with your Volvo retailer if you intend to drive in countries where it may be difficult to obtain the correct fuel. Before a long distance trip It is always worthwhile to have your vehicle checked at a trained and qualified Volvo service technician before driving long distances. Your trained and qualified Volvo service technician will also be able to supply you with bulbs, fuses, spark plugs and wiper blades for your use in the event that problems occur. As a minimum, the following items should be checked before any long trip: • Consider your destination. If you will be driving through an area where snow or ice are likely to occur, consider snow tires. • The optional 12 volt socket in the trunk 06 (certain models only) provides electrical current even with the ignition switched off, which drains the battery. • Check that engine runs smoothly and that fuel consumption is normal. • Check for fuel, oil, and fluid leakage. • Have the transmission oil level checked1. • Check condition of drive belts. 1 To prevent injury from contact with hot surfaces, do not inspect your vehicle's transmission fluid yourself. Have your vehicle's transmission fluid level inspected by a qualified Volvo service technician. 142