Measurement Method

2011 Volvo XC90 Base, FWDSECTION Measurement Method

When measuring the vehicle's total power consumption, connect the measuring instrument in series with the battery at the battery's negative pole.

Connecting the multimeter at the battery negative poleΒ 

NOTE: To avoid current surges that could damage the measuring instrument when the battery cable is connected, carry out the following. Never connect the measuring instrument if the engine cooling fan is in operation as this can damage the instrument.

Ensure that the multimeter is equipped with a clamp and a probe.

Check that the multimeter is set for current measurement.

Disconnect the nut on the battery cable's negative pole.

NOTE: Do not lift the battery cable so that the circuit is broken.

Secure the clamp on the negative pole's battery cable terminal.

NOTE: Check that the connections are installed correctly. If the circuit is broken, the standby current must be re-checked from the beginning

Place the end of the probe on the battery's negative pole.

Slowly lift the battery negative cable without removing the probe.

Stop when the battery negative cable hangs freely without touching the battery or the probe.

Measuring and reading off the total standby current.Β 

Read off the standby current consumption. The total standby current should be less 25 mA.

NOTE: If the car is equipped with "Volvo on call" and the standby current is too high, wait 5 minutes and measure again. The "Volvo on call" system is active for short periods and then increases the short-term standby current above the normal value.

Reinstall the battery's negative cable.

Look and listen for unusual vehicle behavior. Check, for example, if a relay is hot, if it is this can indicate that current is flowing through it.

NOTE: Do not carry out work inside a vehicle equipped with mass movement sensors as the alarm may be triggered.

Check that the CAN network has continued in "sleep mode", see instructions. See CHECKING CAN-NET'S REST STATUSΒ 

If the standby current is OK and the CAN network is still in "sleep mode", reset the vehicle.

NOTE: Do not forget to unlock the trunk lid or tailgate and doors.

If a fault is detected, fault-trace the relevant system. Otherwise continue fault tracing by successive elimination.

Fig 1: Identifying Multimeter (1 Of 2)
GLL180144Courtesy of VOLVO CARS CORPORATION
RENDER: 1.0x

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When to See a Mechanic

Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:

  • β€’ You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
  • β€’ Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
  • β€’ The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
  • β€’ You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
  • β€’ You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.