1989 Volvo 780
1 9 8 9
VOLVO
780
Contents
A comprehensive index is located at the back of this manual.
Introduction
Instruments and controls
Body and interior
Starting and driving
Wheels and tires
In case of emergency
Car care
Service and routine
maintenance
Specifications
Index
All information, illustrations and specifications contained in this manual are based on the latest product
information available at the time of publication. Volvo reserves the right to make model changes at any
time, or to change specifications or design, without notice and without incurring obligation.
pg. 2 This manual deals with the operation and care of your Volvo
Welcome to the world-wide family of Volvo owners. We trust that you will enjoy many years of safe
driving in your Volvo, an automobile designed with your safety and comfort in mind. To ensure your
satisfaction with this vehicle, we encourage you to familiarize yourself with the equipment descriptions,
operating instructions and maintenance requirements/recommendations in this manual. We also urge you
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and your passengers to wear seat belts at all times in this (or any other) automobile. And, of course,
please do not operate a vehicle if you may be affected by alcohol, medication or any impairment that
could hinder your ability to drive.
Your Volvo is designed to meet all applicable safety and emission standards, as evidenced by the
certification labels attached to the door opening sheet metal and on the left wheel housing in the engine
compartment. For further information regarding these regulations, please contact your dealer.
pg. 3 Seatbelts: "Something We Believe In"
Despite our strongest recommendation, and your best intentions, not wearing a seatbelt is like believing
"it'll never happen to me!". Volvo urges you and all adult occupants of your car to wear seatbelts and
ensure that children are properly restrained, using an infant, car or booster seat determined by age,
weight and height.
Fact: In every state, some type of child-restraint legislation has been passed. Additionally, some states
are seriously considering, or have already made it mandatory for occupants of a car to use seatbelts.
So, urging you to 'buckle up' is not just our recommendation - its becoming the law! The few seconds it
takes to buckle up may one day allow you to say, "Its a good thing I was wearing my seatbelt."
pg. 4 Introduction
This Owner's manual provides information on driving and maintaining your Volvo
It should be noted that there are certain differences among model versions and market requirements;
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thus, you may find features described and/or pictured in this manual that do not appear on your car.
Should you require more detailed information with regard to adjustments or repairs please contact your
Volvo dealer.
Do not export your Volvo to another country before investigating that country's applicable safety
and exhaust emission requirements. In some cases it may be difficult or impossible to comply with
these requirements. Modifications to the emission control system(s) may render your Volvo not
certifiable for legal operation in the U.S., Canada, and other countries.
pg. 5 Keys
The key number codes are stamped on a separate tag supplied with the keys. This tag should be
separated from the key ring and kept in a safe place.
The double-sided tape on the back of the tag can be used to secure it safely.
In the event the original keys are lost, duplicates may be ordered from your Volvo dealer.
The central locking system is described in detail in section "Door and locks".
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VOLVO
780
Instruments and controls
pg. 6 Instruments, Switches and controls
pg. 7 Instruments, Switches and controls
1 Air louver
21
2 Headlights, parking lights
14
3 Turn signals, Cruise Control
1416
4 Hazard warning flashers
14
5 Instruments
8
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6 Wiper/washer
15
7 Air louvers
21
8 Heating and ventilation
21
9 Audio cassette/tuner
13
10 Cigarette lighter
18
11 Ash tray
18
12 Electrically-heated driver's seat
19
13 Electrically-heated passenger seat
19
14 Parking brake
18
15 Rear fog lamps
17
16 Fog lights
17
17 Power antenna
20
18 Fuel cap cover
43
19 Horn 20 Starting switch/steering wheel lock
15
21 Electrically operated moon roof
27
22 Rear window/rear view mirror
demister
19
23 Hood release handle
37
24 Electrically operated windows
20
24 Electrically operated rear view mirrors
26
24 Electrically operated door locks
34
25 Electrically operated front seat
39
The pages in this section provide a detailed description of the vehicle's instruments and controls.
Note that vehicles may be equipped differently, depending on special legal requirements, etc.
pg. 8 Instruments
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NOTE: Canadian model speedometers/odometers indicate kilometers only.
1 Volt meter
2 Fuel gauge
3 Clock reset knob
4 Quartz crystal clock
5 Speedometer
6 Trip odometer
7 Trip odometer reset knob
8 Odometer
9 Tachometer
10 Instrument panel lamps rheostat
11 Coolant temperature gauge
12 Oil temperature gauge - or Boost gauge (Turbo models)
pg. 9 Instruments
Quartz crystal clock
To reset the hands, push in the reset knob and turn.
Tachometer
Reads thousands of engine rpm. Engine should not be operated in red range.
Trip odometer
Used for measuring shorter distances. Last figure represents 1/10 mile or km. A black number on a white
background = original instrument. A red number on a white background = replacement instrument
Trip odometer reset knob
Push in to reset
Coolant temperature gauge
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The pointer should be approximately midway on the gauge face when driving. If the pointer approaches
the red range repeatedly, check coolant level and fan belt tension. See sections "Coolant" and "Drive
belts".
WARNING!
Allow engine to cool before adding
coolant.
If the pointer stays in the red range, do not drive the car. Call Road Assistance.
Fuel gauge
The fuel tank capacity is approx. 21.1 US gals (80 liters).
The red range represents approx. 2.4 US gals. (9 liters). See "Refueling" For further information
Instrument panel lamps rheostat
Clockwise = brighter.
Counterclockwise = dimmer.
Oil temperature gauge (B280F)
This instrument shows the engine oil temperature which varies with the ambient temperature, rpm, load
and speed.
Normal oil temperature: 140-250°F.
The sender is installed in the oil sump drain plug hole.
Voltmeter
The voltmeter indicates the voltage in the electrical system and thereby also the state of the battery.
While the car is being driven the pointer should be within the black field. Should the pointer point to the
upper or lower red field when driving, this may indicate some fault in the electrical system.
Boost pressure gauge
(B230F-Turbo) The boost pressure gauge is divided into sections.
Black section: The engine acts as a normally-aspirated engine. Best fuel economy is achieved while
driving in this range.
Yellow section: The turbo is providing boost pressure.
pg. 10 Indicator and warning lights
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1 Turn signal, left
2 Turn signal, right
3 (Not connected)
4 (Not connected)
5 ABS malfunction
6 Service reminder light
7 SRS (Supplemental Restraint System)
8 Low engine oil pressure
9 Alternator not charging
10 (Not connected)
11 High beams
12 Brake failure
13 Parking brake applied
14 Bulb failure
15 Low washer fluid level.
If the lamp glows continuously when the engine is running, there is only about 1/2 - 1 US qts. remaining
in the washer fluid reservoir.
16 4th gear disengaged
17 Fasten seat belts
18 (Not connected)
pg. 11 Warning lights
The warning lights described on this page should never stay on when driving
Alternator warning light
If the light comes on while the engine is running, check the tension of the alternator drive belt as soon as
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possible.
NOTE: This warning light is illuminated if the alternator is not charging. However, parking brake,
brake failure and bulb failure warning lights will be illuminated at the same time due to the design
of the system.
Brake failure warning light
If the light comes on while driving and the brake pedal can be depressed further than normal, it is an
indication that one of the brake circuits is not functioning.
Stop immediately, open hood and check brake fluid level (see section "Brake fluid, Power steering")
WARNING!
Fluid level below MIN mark": Do NOT drive. Tow car to shop for check/repair of brake
system.
Fluid level between MIN and MAX mark: Proceed immediately and with caution to a Volvo dealer for
an inspection of the brake system.
Oil pressure warning light
If the light comes on during driving, the oil pressure is too low. Stop the car and then stop the engine
immediately. Do not drive the vehicle. See section titled "Engine oil".
After hard driving, the light will come on occasionally when the engine is idling. This is normal,
provided it goes off when the engine speed is increased.
Bulb failure warning light
The light will come on if any of the following bulbs are defective:
one of the low beam headlights
one of the tail lights
one of the brake lights (when the brake pedal is depressed)
Check the fuse and bulb.
See sections titled "Replacing bulbs" and "Fuses".
Should the warning light come on after a defective outside bulb has been replaced, the corresponding
bulb on the other side-of the car should also be replaced.
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Parking brake reminder light
This light will be on when the parking brake (hand brake) is applied. The parking brake lever is situated
between the front seats.
pg. 12 Warning lights
Anti-lock Brake System (ABS)
The Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) is designed to improve vehicle control (i.e. stopping and steering)
during severe braking conditions by limiting wheel lock-up. When the system "senses" impending wheel
lock-up, braking pressure is automatically modulated in order to help prevent lock-up, which could lead
to a skid. While the system is modulating braking pressure, the driver may detect a pulsation of the
brake pedal. The on/off switching of ABS modulator may also be audible. This is normal.
Please be aware that ABS does not increase the absolute braking potential of the vehicle. Thus, while
control will be enhanced, ABS will not shorten stopping distances on slippery surfaces.
NOTE:
If the warning lamp lights up there is a malfunction of the ABS system (the standard braking system will
however function) and the vehicle should be driven to a Volvo dealer for inspection.
SRS Supplemental Restraint System
If the light comes on (or stays on after the vehicle has started), the SRS diagnostic system has detected a
Fault. Take The car to an authorized Volvo dealer for an inspection of the system. See the SRS section
for more information.
Service reminder light
This light will come on at 5000 mile (8000 km) intervals. It is a reminder to the driver that the 5000 mile
(8000 km) service interval has been exceeded. The light will stay on 2 minutes after start until reset by
the servicing dealer.
pg. 13 Audio Cassette/Tuner controls and indicators
Operating instructions
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For complete operating instructions, maintenance guidelines, and specifications, please consult your
Audio Cassette/Tuner instruction Booklet. The Booklet also contains information on radio reception and
the radio antenna.
Radio antenna mast
Note: Always lower the antenna mast When entering an automatic car wash.
The antenna should be cleaned and lubricated every 5,000 miles (8,000 km).
Multipath distortion
FM signals are typically "line-of-sight" and very reflective. Their reflectivity to objects such as
buildings, mountains or even other passing vehicles causes the condition known as multipath distortion.
This distortion is the result of the reflected signal and the direct signal reaching your antenna at slightly
different times causing a cancellation of all signals. This condition will sound like hissing or static. Very
little can be done to eliminate this problem, however, lowering the treble on your radio could help mask
these disturbances thereby allowing you to achieve optimum pleasure from your audio system.
pg. 14 Lighting, Turn signals, Hazard warning flasher
Headlights and parking light
All lights off
Parking lights on
Headlights and parking lights are on if starting (ignition) switch is in position I or II.
If the headlight switch is in position all lights will go out when starting switch is switched off.
With the headlight switch in position the parking lights will stay on.
Switch from high to low beams, and vice versa, by moving the turn signal switch lever on the left side of
the steering column towards the steering wheel.
Turn signals
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1 Lane change position. In maneuvers such as lane changing, the driver can flash the turn signals by
moving the turn signal lever to the First stop and holding it there. The lever will return to the neutral
position when released.
2 Signal lever engaged for normal turns.
NOTE: Defective turn signal bulb will cause turn signal indicator and remaining signal lights to flash
more rapidly than normal.
3 High beam/low beam switch (headlights on).
Move the lever towards the steering wheel past the headlight flasher position and release it.
3 Headlight flasher (headlights off).
Move the lever towards the steering wheel. The headlight high beam will be on until the lever is
released.
Hazard warning flasher
The four-way flasher should be used to indicate that the vehicle has become a traffic hazard.
NOTE: Regulations regarding the use of the hazard warning flasher may vary from state to state.
pg. 15 Windshield, wipers/washers, Ignition switch
Wiper/washer
1 Intermittent wiper.
With switch in this position, the wipers will sweep approximately every seventh second.
2 "Single sweep" position.
Switch returns automatically when released.
3 Wipers, low speed.
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4 Wipers, high speed.
5 Windshield wiper/washer.
The wiper will make 2-3 complete sweeps after the lever is released.
Starting (ignition) switch/steering wheel lock
The steering wheel lock might be under tension when the car is parked. Turn the steering wheel slightly
to free the ignition key.
A chime will sound if the starting key is left in the ignition lock and the front door on the driver's side is
opened.
pg. 16 Cruise control
Cruise control
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The cruise control switches are located on the turn signal switch lever.
To engage and set desired speed:
1. Set switch (B) to ON.
2. Accelerate to desired cruise speed.
NOTE: The cruise control cannot be engaged at speeds below 22 mph (35 km/h).
3. Depress SET SPEED switch (A).
Operating brake pedal
This will automatically disengage the cruise control. Previously selected cruise speed is retained in the
memory and by momentarily setting the switch to RESUME position that speed will be re-engaged.
NOTE:
The vehicle will accelerate very quickly should there be a substantial speed differential when the switch
is reset to RESUME. It is therefore recommended that the vehicle be accelerated manually and the
switch reset to RESUME once the speed differential has been reduced.
Acceleration
Momentary acceleration, such as for passing, does not interrupt cruise control operation. The previously
selected speed will be maintained without having to set switch to RESUME.
To disengage the cruise control system:
Set switch (B) to position OFF, or depress brake pedal.
Switching off the starting (ignition) switch is will automatically disengage the cruise control system.
WARNING!
The cruise control should not be used in heavy traffic or when driving on wet or slippery roads.
If the gear shift is moved to Neutral while the cruise control is engaged, then depress the brake pedal
momentarily, or set the cruise control switch (B) to OFF. This will disengage the cruise control and
prevent overreving the engine.
NOTE: When driving on a grade, actual vehicle speed may vary slightly from the set cruise control
speed.
pg. 17 Rear fog lights, Front fog lights
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Rear fog lights
The rear fog lights are considerably brighter than the normal tail lights and should be used only when
atmospheric conditions, such as fog, rain, snow, smoke or dust reduce the daytime or nighttime visibility
of other vehicle to less than 500 ft. (152 meters). The headlights must be switched on.
Note that local regulations governing the use of these lights may vary.
Auxiliary front fog lights
Auxiliary front fog lights can be switched on only with the low-beam headlights on.
pg. 18 Parking brake, Cigarette lighter, Ash trays
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Parking brake (hand brake)
The lever is situated between the front seats. The brake is applied to the rear wheels. Always use the
parking brake (hand brake) when parking. On hills, also turn the front wheels toward the curb.
In order to obtain the best possible performance of the parking brake, the brake linings should be broken
in. See section titled "Brake system".
Cigarette lighter
To operate, depress the knob fully. When the knob automatically releases, the cigarette lighter is ready
for use.
The starting (ignition) switch must be switched on (to position I or II) for the cigarette lighter to
function.
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Ash trays
To remove the ash trays depress the center spring and remove.
pg. 19 Rear window demister, Heated front seats
Rear window demister
Heated side-view mirrors
Depress the switch to start heating of rear window and side mirrors. Both orange control lights in the
switch will light.
A timer switches off the side mirror heating after approx. 6 minutes and the rear window demister after
12 minutes or when the ignition key is switched off.
The control lights go out correspondingly.
Depressing the switch while any control light is on will disengage all heating.
Depressing the switch after the control lights have gone out will restart the heating cycle.
CAUTION: Do not place items that may damage the printed circuit against the inner surface of the rear
window.
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Heated front seats
The heated front seats can be switched on or off as required. When switched on, the seats are heated
until the optimal temperature is reached, at which time the heating switches off automatically.
The passenger seat is only heated when occupied.
pg. 20 Electrically operated windows, Power antenna
Electrically-operated windows
The electrically operated windows are controlled by switches from the driver's armrest as shown in the
above illustration. The starting (ignition) switch must be ON (position II) for the electrically operated
windows to function. The window is lowered if the rear part of the switch is pressed and raised if the
front part of the switch is pressed.
WARNING!
Remove the ignition key when children are left unattended in the
vehicle.
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Power antenna
The power antenna switch can be used to retract the antenna when the audio system is turned on. This
permits operation of the cassette drive with the antenna in the down position.
Position A - The antenna extends when the radio is turned on and retracts when the radio is turned off.
Position B - The antenna remains retracted or retracts if the radio is already on.
NOTE:
Always retract the antenna before driving into automatic car washes or any other areas with low ceilings
to avoid damaging or breaking the antenna off.
The power antenna should be cleaned and lubricated every 5,000 miles (8,000 km)
pg. 21 Heating and ventilation
ECC - Electronic Climate Control
This is an automatic system that also permits manual operation. The in-car temperature is automatically
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monitored by two sensors located in the passenger compartment. One sensor is located at the top of the
dashboard where it can sense light sunlight. The second sensor is located on the courtesy light where it
can sense the temperature in the center of the car. The following pages describe how ECC works and
how it can be used most effectively.
Air louvers (dash)
A Open
B Closed
C Directing air flow horizontally
D Directing air flow vertically
A certain amount of air will always enter through the dash air louvers as long as they are open,
regardless of the position of the air distribution control.
Close the dash air louvers to obtain maximum air flow to floor or windshield.
pg. 22 Heating and ventilation
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pg. 23 Heating and ventilation
Automatic setting
The ECC system will automatically maintain a comfortable in-car temperature regardless of the outdoor
temperature.
Select the desired temperature
The fan will run its maximum speed in either the cooling or max heating positions.
Optimum defrosting
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Set the function dial to
.
The air conditioning light will go on, even if the button is not depressed, to indicate that the air
conditioning system is also activated in dehumidify the air.
NOTE: The air conditioning compressor only engages at temperatures above 41°F (5°C).
Always keep the air intake grille at the base of the windshield free of snow.
Operating Tips
*When the outside air is contaminated with exhaust gases, smoke etc. (as when driving through a
tunnel), push the recirculation button
. In this position, very little air is drawn into the passenger
compartment from outside. However, do not leave the system in this mode for more than 10-15 minutes,
since the air inside the car will become stale and the windows may fog.
NOTE: Do not place any objects over the sensor in the passenger side speaker grille as this will cause
the ECC system to respond incorrectly to ambient conditions.
ECC system fault indication
If the light in the air conditioning push button begins to Flash when the ignition is switched on, a simple
fault is indicated. The system will compensate by substituting a standard value stored in the memory.
System performance loss will be slight.
If the light continues to flash more than 20 seconds, a more serious fault is indicated. While the system
will again attempt to substitute a standard value, some deterioration of system performance will become
apparent. Contact your authorized Volvo dealer for service.
pg. 24
Contents | Top of Page
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1 9 8 9
VOLVO
780
Body and interior
pg. 25 Body and interior
Body and interior
The seats, seat belts, doors, etc. are described on the following pages.
Rear-view/side-view mirrors
26
Interior light, moon roof
27
Child safety
28
Seat belts
30
Supplemental Restraint System (SRS)
32
Doors and locks
34
Trunk, long load storage
36
Hood
37
Passenger compartment, storage spaces
38
Front seats
39
pg. 26 Rear-view/side-view mirrors, Make-up mirror
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Rear-view mirror
A Normal position
B Night position, reduces glare from following headlights
WARNING!
The mirrors should always he adjusted prior to
driving.
Electrically-operated side-view mirrors
The control switches are located in the driver's door armrest.
A Adjustment sideways
B Adjustment up/down
WARNING!
Objects seen in the wide angle right-side mirror are closer than they appear to
be.
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CAUTION: Never use ice scrapers made of metal as they can easily scratch the mirror surface.
Make-up mirror
The make-up mirror is located on the right-side sun visor.
Make-up mirror lighting:
A OFF
B ON
pg. 27 Interior light, Moon roof
Interior light
1 Light always on.
2 Light always off.
3 Light is on when either of the front doors are opened.
A time delay-device for the interior light illuminated for approx. 7 seconds after closing the driver's
door.
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Moon roof
The moon roof is operated electrically by a switch on the dashboard - the ignition key must be turned to
position II. Once you release the switch the moon roof locks into position. To close the moon roof
depress the opposite side of the switch.
The roof can be closed manually, see section "Troubleshooting".
The moon roof is supplied with a manually adjustable sun shade.
Note: Do not slide the sun shade further back than the front edge of the moon roof.
Reading lights, rear seats
There are two adjustment reading lights for rear seat passengers. The lights are turned on and off by the
switches on the rear arm rests. The starting (ignition) key must be in position I.
pg. 28 Child safety
Child safety
Volvo recommends the proper use of restraint systems for all occupants including children. Regardless
of age and size, a child should always be properly restrained in a car.
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Special child restraint systems are designed to be secured in the vehicle by lap belts or the lap portion of
a lap-shoulder belt. Such child restraint systems can help protect children in cars in the event of an
accident only if they are used properly. However, children could be endangered in a crash if their child
restraints are not properly secured in the vehicle.
Failure to follow the installation instructions for your child restraint can result in your child striking the
vehicle's interior during a sudden stop or crash.
Holding a child in your arms is NOT a suitable substitute for a child restraint system. In an accident, a
child held in a person's arms can be crushed between the vehicle's interior and an unrestrained person.
The child can also be injured by striking the interior, or by being ejected from the vehicle during a
sudden maneuver or impact. The same can happen if an infant or child rides unrestrained on the seat.
Other occupants should also be properly restrained to help reduce the chance of injuring or increasing
the injury of a child.
All states and provinces have legislation governing how and where children should be carried in a car.
Recent accident statistics have shown that children are safer in rear seating positions than front seating
positions when properly restrained.
A child restraint system can help protect a child in a vehicle. Here's what to look for when selecting a
child restraint system:
● It should have a label certifying that it meets applicable Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards
(FMVSS 213) or in Canada, CMVSS 213.
● Make sure the child restraint system is appropriate for the child's height, weight and development -
the label required by the standard or regulation or instructions for infant restraints typically provide this
information.
● In using any child restraint system, we urge you to carefully look over the instructions that are
provided with the restraint. Be sure you understand them and can use the device properly and
safely in this vehicle. A misused child restraint system can result in increased injuries for both the
infant or child and other occupants in the vehicle.
● If your child restraint requires a top tether strap, consult your authorized Volvo dealer for top tether
anchorage and installation information.
When a child has outgrown the child safety seat (approximately age 4-5 years, depending on size) you
should use the rear seat with the standard seat belt fastened. The best way to protect the child here is to
place the child on a cushion so that the seat/shoulder belt is properly located on the hip. A specially
designed and tested safety cushion for this purpose can be obtained from your Volvo dealer. Volvo also
offers a seat for children 0 to approximately 4 years.
pg. 29 Child safety
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Child Restraint Anchorages
Volvo cars are fitted with Child Restraint Top Tether Anchorage in the rear seat.
There are three Anchorages under the rear section of the car's rear window shelf. When the car is
delivered, the holes for these anchorages are covered by plastic screws. In cars designated for Canada
one top tether anchorage set will be in the glove box. In cars designated for the U.S., a coupon, good for
one set, will be provided by mail.
The top tether anchorage set includes the top Tether anchorage plate, a M8 bolt 30 mm long and a
plastic trim cover (see illustration).
If another set is needed, consult your Volvo dealer.
Installing the top tether
Remove the plastic screw covering the anchorage point you want to use. This can be done with a
suitable coin. The screw is removed counter-clockwise. Place the top tether anchorage plate as shown in
the illustration. Using the M8 bolt, tighten securely, to 16 +/-2.5 ft-lb. Place the plastic trim plate over
the anchorage plate, if desired.
WARNING!
Child Restraint Anchorages are designed to withstand only those loads imposed by correctly fitted
Child Restraints. Under no circumstances are they to be used for adults seat belts or harnesses.
The anchorages are not able to withstand excessive forces on them in the event of collision if full
harness seat belts or adult seat belts are installed to them. A grown-up who uses a belt anchored in a
Child Restraint Anchorage runs a great risk of suffering severe injuries should a collision occur.
pg. 30 Seat belts
Seat Belts
Fasten the seat belts whenever you drive or ride.
Two lights will be illuminated for 4-8 seconds after the ignition key is turned to the driving position.
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1989 Volvo 780
One light is located in the instrument panel and one in the console between the front seats.
A chime will sound at the same time if the driver has not fastened his seat belt. The front seats and the
rear outboard seats are provided with self-retracting inertia-reel belts.
To buckle:
Pull the belt out from both retractors far enough to insert the latch plate into the receptacle (buckle for
rear seats), until a distinct snapping sound is heard.
The seat belt retractors are normally "unlocked" and you can move freely, provided that the shoulder
belt is not pulled out too far.
The retractors will lock up as follows:
● if belt is pulled out rapidly
● during braking and acceleration
● if the vehicle is leaning excessively
● when driving in turns
In order for the seat belt to provide maximum protection in the event of an accident, it must be worn
correctly. When wearing remember:
● the belt should not be twisted or turned
● the lap belt must be positioned low (not pressing against the abdomen). Make sure that the shoulder
belt is rolled up into its retractor and that the shoulder and lap belts are taut.
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