Level control* and shock absorption

Level control regulates the car's suspension and shock absorption characteristics automatically to ensure optimum comfort and functionality while driving. It is also possible to adjust the level manually in order to facilitate loading or entry and exit.

Air suspension and shock absorption

The system is adapted according to the selected drive mode and according to the speed of the car. Using the air suspension, the car's ground clearance is adjusted to a lower level at higher speeds, which reduces wind resistance and increases stability. Shock absorption is normally set for optimum comfort and is regulated continuously depending on the road surface, the car's acceleration, braking and cornering.

P5-S90/V90/XC90-1617-Driver display-Soul symbol-Height adjustment

The driver display indicates when level control is in progress.

When a side door or the tailgate is open, the following applies:
  • If a side door is open, the level can only be regulated upwards.
  • If the tailgate is open, the level can only be regulated downwards.

During parking

During parking, make sure you allow adequate space above and below the car since the car's ground clearance may vary e.g. depending on the outside temperature, how the car is loaded, the use of loading mode or the drive mode that is selected after starting.

The level may also be adjusted some time after the car has been parked. This is to compensate for any changes in height that may occur due to temperature changes in the air springs when the car cools down.

During transport

During transport of the car on a ferry, train or truck, the car must be lashed around the tyres and not around other parts of the chassis. Changes in the air suspension may occur during transport, which could affect the lashing negatively.

Symbols and messages

If a fault arises with level control, a message is shown in the driver display.

SymbolMessageSpecification
P6-XC40-1746-Driver Information Module, Soul symbol suspension

Suspension

Deactivated by user

The active suspension has been switched off manually by the user.
P6-XC40-1746-Driver Information Module, Soul symbol suspension

Suspension

Temporarily reduced performance

The active suspension's performance has been temporarily reduced due to extensive system use.
P6-XC40-1746-Driver Information Module, Soul symbol suspension amber lining

Suspension

Service required

A fault has occurred. Visit a workshop1 as soon as possible.
P6-XC40-1746-Driver Information Module, Soul symbol suspension red lining

Suspension failure

Stop safely

A critical fault has occurred. Stop safely, have the car towed to a workshop1.

P6-XC40-1746-Driver Information Module, Soul symbol suspension amber lining

Suspension

Slow down Car too high

A fault has occurred. If the message appears whilst driving, contact a workshop1.
P5-S90/V90/XC90-1617-Driver display-Soul symbol-Height adjustment

Suspension

Auto adjusting car level

Level control to target height in progress.

  1. * Option/accessory.
  2. 1 An authorised Volvo workshop is recommended.