Most Volvo vehicles are equipped with an electronic computer system that is linked to the dashboard that triggers a wrench-shaped dashboard symbol, which tells drivers when routine maintenance or an inspection is required. The driver must respond to the issue as soon as possible and resolve it. If the driver neglects a service light, such as the “BOOK TIME FOR MAINTENANCE” or “TIME FOR REGULAR SERVICE” light, he or she runs the risk of damaging the engine - or worse, ending up stranded on the side of the road or causing an accident.
For these reasons, performing all scheduled and recommended maintenance on your vehicle is imperative to keep it running well so you can avoid the many untimely, inconvenient, and possibly expensive repairs that come from neglect. Luckily, the days of scratching your head and performing diagnostics to find the service light’s trigger are gone. Volvo’s Service Reminder Indicator (SRI) system is a simplistic on-board computer system that alerts owners about specific maintenance needs so they can address the issue promptly and without hassle. Depending on your Volvo’s model and year, the system keeps track of the miles driven, engine operating hours, or the calendar time between services so you don’t have to. Once the SRI is triggered, the driver knows to schedule an appointment to take the vehicle in for servicing.
How Volvo’s Service Reminder Indicator system works and what to expect
The sole function of Volvo’s Service Reminder Indicator is as a reminder for the driver to take their car in for an oil change or other routine maintenance. The computer system tracks the engine miles, engine operating hours, or calendar time from the time the system was reset, and the light will trigger when either maintenance or an inspection is necessary.
Since the Service Reminder Indicator is not algorithm-driven as is with other more advanced maintenance reminder systems, it does not take into account the differences 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 often, or for those who often drive in extreme weather conditions and need the oil changed more frequently. Be aware of your driving conditions throughout the year and, as necessary, have a professional determine whether or not your vehicle needs servicing depending on your specific, most frequent driving conditions.
Below is a helpful table that can give you an idea of how often you might need to change the oil in a modern vehicle (older vehicles often need more frequent oil changes):
- Note: Engine oil life is dependent not only on the factors listed above, but also on your specific vehicle model, year, and what type of oil is recommended. Check the owner’s manual for more information about what oil is recommended for your vehicle. If you have any questions about your vehicle, do not hesitate to contact our experienced professionals for advice.
When the “BOOK TIME FOR MAINTENANCE” or “TIME FOR REGULAR SERVICE” light is triggered and you schedule an appointment to have your vehicle serviced, Volvo recommends a series of inspections that will help keep your car in good running order as well as help prevent untimely and costly damages to the engine, depending on your driving habits and conditions. Volvo has very model- and year-specific routine maintenance schedules for your vehicle. Click here and enter your model, year, and mileage to see what service package suits your vehicle now, or consult the owner’s manual.
While the Volvo Service Reminder Indicator can be used as a reminder to the driver to have the vehicle serviced, it only be a guideline that depends on how the vehicle is driven and under what driving conditions. Proper maintenance service will greatly extend the life of a vehicle, ensuring it is reliable, safe to drive, covered by the manufacturer’s warranty, and it also provides a greater resale value.
Such maintenance tasks should always be performed by a qualified technician. If you have any doubts as to what the Volvo maintenance system means or what services your vehicle may need, do not hesitate to contact our experienced professionals for advice.
If your Volvo Service Reminder Indicator is indicating that your vehicle is ready for servicing, have it checked out by a certified mechanic, such as one from YourMechanic. Click here, choose your vehicle and service or service package, and book an appointment with us today. One of our certified mechanics will come to your home or office to service your vehicle.
