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1997 Volvo 850
section "Coolant". The use of "recycled" antifreeze is not approved by Volvo. Different types of
antifreeze may not be mixed.
● Try to keep the fuel tank well filled - this prevents the formation of condensation in the tank. In
addition, in extremely cold weather conditions it is worthwhile to add fuel line de-icer before refueling.
● The viscosity of the engine oil is important. Oil with low viscosity (thinner oil) improves cold-
weather starting as well as decreasing fuel consumption while the engine is warming up. For winter use,
5W-30 oil, particularly the synthetic type, is recommended. Be sure to use good quality oil but do not
use this cold-weather oil for hard driving or in warm weather. See section "Engine oil" for more
information.
● The load placed on the battery is greater during the winter since the windshield wipers, lighting, etc.
are used more often. Moreover, the capacity of the battery decreases as the temperature drops. In very
cold weather, a poorly charged battery can freeze and be damaged. It is therefore advisable to check the
state of charge more frequently and spray an anti-rust oil on the battery posts.
● Volvo recommends the use of snow tires on all four wheels for winter driving - see section "Wheels
and tires".
● To prevent the washer fluid reservoir from freezing, add washer solvents containing antifreeze (see
page 8:15 for the location of the washer fluid reservoir). This is important since the dirt is often splashed
on the windshield during winter driving, requiring the frequent use of the washers and wipers. The
Volvo Washer Solvent should be diluted as follows:
Down to 14°F (-10°C): 1 part anti-freeze and 4 parts water
Down to 5°F (-15°C): 1 part anti-freeze and 3 parts water
Down to 0°F (-18°C): 1 part anti-freeze and 2 parts water
Down to -18°F (-28°): 1 part anti-freeze and 1 part water
● When driving in temperatures below 15° F (-10° C), we recommend the use of Volvo's radiator guard
to help the engine reach normal operating temperature as quickly as possible. This guard should not be
used when towing a trailer.
● Use Volvo Teflon Lock Spray in the locks.
NOTE: Avoid the use of de-icing sprays as they can cause damage to the locks.
Winter/Wet mode
Enhanced Vehicle Traction
This mode may be selected for starting/moving off on slippery roads.
In this mode:
* In position D, the gearbox starts in 3rd gear and changes up to 4th gear.
* In position 3, 2nd gear is locked and there is no change up to 3rd gear.
In position L, 1st gear is locked.
file:///K|/ownersdocs/1997/1997_850/97850_416.htm (4 of 5)12/30/2006 10:14:21 AM