Understanding Volvo Service Reminder Lights
Most Volvo cars are equipped with an electronic computer system linked to the dashboard that activates a wrench symbol on the dashboard that tells drivers when a scheduled maintenance or inspection is required. The driver must respond to the problem as soon as possible and solve it. If a driver neglects a service light such as "BOOK TIME FOR MAINTENANCE" or "TIME FOR REGULAR SERVICE", he or she risks damaging the engine, or worse, ending up on the side of the road or causing an accident.
For these reasons, performing all the scheduled and recommended maintenance on your vehicle is essential to keep it running properly so you can avoid the many untimely, inconvenient, and possibly costly repairs that result from negligence. Luckily, the days of racking your brains and running diagnostics to find the service light trigger are over. The Volvo Service Reminder Indicator (SRI) system is a simplified on-board computer system that alerts owners of specific service needs so they can resolve the issue quickly and without hassle. Depending on the model and year of your Volvo, the system tracks mileage, engine hours or calendar time between service intervals so you don't have to. Once the SRI is triggered, the driver knows to schedule an appointment to drop the vehicle off for service.
How the Volvo Service Reminder Indicator System Works and What to Expect
The sole function of the Volvo Service Reminder Indicator is to remind the driver to change the oil or other scheduled maintenance. The computer system tracks the engine mileage, engine hours or calendar time since the system was reset, and the light comes on when maintenance or inspection is needed.
Because the service reminder indicator is not algorithm driven like other more advanced service reminder systems, it does not take into account the difference between light and extreme driving conditions, load weight, towing or weather conditions - important variables that affect oil life. .
Because of this, it is important to keep track of certain driving habits and conditions, especially for those who tow frequently, or for those who frequently drive in extreme weather conditions and need more frequent oil changes. Be aware of your driving conditions throughout the year and, if necessary, see a professional to determine if your vehicle needs service based on your specific, most frequent driving conditions.
Below is a helpful chart that can give you an idea of how often you may need to change the oil in a modern car (older cars often require more frequent oil changes):
- Attention: Engine oil life depends not only on the factors listed above, but also on the specific car model, year of manufacture and recommended type of oil. Consult your owner's manual for more information on which oil is recommended for your vehicle. If you have any questions about your vehicle, feel free to contact our experienced professionals for advice.
When the "BOOK TIME FOR SERVICE" or "TIME FOR REGULAR SERVICE" light comes on and you make an appointment to have your car serviced, Volvo recommends a series of checks to help keep your car in good working order and help prevent untimely and costly engine damage , depending on your habits and driving conditions. Volvo has scheduled maintenance schedules for your car based on the specific model and year. Click here and enter your model, year and mileage to find out which service package is right for your vehicle or refer to your owner's manual.
While the Volvo service reminder indicator can be used as a reminder to the driver to service the car, it can only serve as a guide, depending on how the car is being driven and under what driving conditions. Proper maintenance will greatly extend the life of your vehicle, ensuring reliability, driving safety, a manufacturer's warranty, and greater resale value.
Such maintenance work must always be carried out by a qualified person. If you have any doubts about what the Volvo service system means or what services your car may require, do not hesitate to seek advice from our experienced specialists.
If your Volvo service reminder indicator shows that your car is ready for service, have it checked by a certified mechanic such as AvtoTachki. Click here, select your vehicle and service or package, and book an appointment with us today. One of our certified mechanics will come to your home or office to service your vehicle.
