Tire Pressure

[Steven_Butler]

The tire pressure label (FMVSS) on our 2010 XC70 (B-pillar) list 33 psi but this causes the tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) to flag a low tire pressure. The owner's manual also lists a different tire pressure (for USA) of 35 psi. There is a recall 226 for the pre 2011 models to bring the label, owner's manual, and software up to the current value of 36 psi. Note, starting in 2011 the lowest pressure listed (low speed and low load for Canada and UK) is 36 psi so an inflation pressure of 33 psi would appear to be under inflated.

Volvo of NA clams this recall does not apply due to the weight ratio. When ask what is the correct press Volvo responded in an email that based on the weight of the XC70 the correct pressure is 33 psi. Interesting, the listed (web owner's manuals) gross vehicle weight for the 2009-2011 XC70 are identical. The difference between the turbo and non-turbo is 40 lb which is slightly over 0.5% of the GVW. So vehicle weight does not appear to be a factor.

So, how does one get a straight answer from Volvo that does not insult ones intelligence? Also, is there anyone at Volvo that sees a problem with safety labels listing a different value as listed in the owner's manual (and programed into the tire pressure monitoring system)?

[phlegm]

The tire pressure label (FMVSS) on our 2010 XC70 (B-pillar) list 33 psi but this causes the tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) to flag a low tire pressure. The owner's manual also lists a different tire pressure (for USA) of 35 psi. There is a recall 226 for the pre 2011 models to bring the label, owner's manual, and software up to the current value of 36 psi. Note, starting in 2011 the lowest pressure listed (low speed and low load for Canada and UK) is 36 psi so an inflation pressure of 33 psi would appear to be under inflated.

Volvo of NA clams this recall does not apply due to the weight ratio. When ask what is the correct press Volvo responded in an email that based on the weight of the XC70 the correct pressure is 33 psi. Interesting, the listed (web owner's manuals) gross vehicle weight for the 2009-2011 XC70 are identical. The difference between the turbo and non-turbo is 40 lb which is slightly over 0.5% of the GVW. So vehicle weight does not appear to be a factor.

So, how does one get a straight answer from Volvo that does not insult ones intelligence? Also, is there anyone at Volvo that sees a problem with safety labels listing a different value as listed in the owner's manual (and programed into the tire pressure monitoring system)?

I certainly would defer to the safety label, as would most of us.

I am surprised though that the TPMS would get triggered at something as small as a 2 psi shortfall, but that is a side issue.

FWIW, sticker on 2012 T6 indicates 36 psi all around.

You are not alone re Volvo documentation issues that border on danger. My 2009 manual (for an S80) incorrectly lists lug nut torque at 62 ft-lbs, when it should be in the 100 ft-lb range. Ridiculous.

[toma nova]

The sticker on our 2010 T6 with 18" wheels also states 36psi. We've picked up a couple of nails, TPMS does not come on until about 28psi.

HTH,
Tom