Volvo XC90: Starting and driving / Overheating of engine and transmission
In certain driving conditions, such as driving in mountainous areas or hot
weather, there is a risk of the engine or transmission overheating, especially when
carrying heavy loads.
- Engine power may be temporarily limited.
- Remove any auxiliary lights mounted in front of the grille when driving
in hot weather.
- If the temperature in the engine's cooling system becomes too high, a warning
symbol will appear in the instrument panel along with the message Engine
temperature High temperature Stop safely. Pull over to a safe location and
let the engine idle for a few minutes to cool down.
- If the message Engine temperature High temperature Turn off engine or
Engine coolant Level low, turn off engine is displayed, stop the vehicle
and turn off the engine.
- If the transmission begins to overheat, an alternative gear shifting program
will be selected. An integrated protective function will also be activated,
the warning symbol will illuminate and the message Transmission warm Reduce
speed to lower temperature or Transmission hot Stop safely, wait for
cooling will be displayed in the instrument panel. Follow the recommendations
given by reducing speed or stopping the vehicle safely and letting the engine
idle for a few minutes to let the transmission cool.
- If the vehicle begins to overheat, the air conditioning may be temporarily
switched off.
- After a prolonged period of driving in demanding conditions, do not turn
off the engine immediately after stopping.
NOTE
It is normal for the engine's cooling fan to operate for a short time after
the engine is switched off.
Symbols in the instrument panel

Three-way catalytic converter
Keep your engine properly tuned. Certain engine malfunctions, particularly
involving the electrical, fuel or distributor ignition systems, may cause unusually
high threeway catalytic converter temperatures...
The electrical functions in the vehicle drain the battery to varying degrees.
Avoid using ignition mode II when the engine is switched off. Use ignition mode
I instead, as this uses less electrical current...
Other information:
The vehicle has sensors that detect ambient lighting conditions. With the lighting
ring in the position, the daytime running
lights will always be activated when the ignition is in mode II. In weak daylight
or dark conditions, the headlights automatically switch to low beams...
Volvo Cars' website and support site contain additional information about
your vehicle.
Online support
Go to volvocars.com/support to visit the site. The support site is available
in most markets.
The site contains support for e.g. Internet- based services and functions, Volvo
On Call, the navigation system * and apps...