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1993 Volvo 960
NOTE: Refer to section "Automatic transmission" for additional trailer hauling
tips.
pg. 4:17 Winter driving
Cold weather precautions
● If you wish to check your car before the approach of cold weather, the following advice is worth
noting:
Make sure that the engine coolant contains at least 50 percent antifreeze: that is, 5.3 qts. (5 liters) Volvo
Genuine Coolant/Antifreeze. This gives protection against freezing down to -31°F (-35°C). See 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 heater, 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.
● To prevent the washer reservoir from freezing, add washer solvents containing antifreeze. This is
important since the dirt is often splashed on the windshield during winter driving, thus requiring
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
● Use Volvo Teflon lock spray or grease in the locks.
NOTE: Avoid the use of de-icing spray as they can cause damage to the
locks.
Automatic differential lock (certain models)
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