Active Xenon headlights*. Fog light. Hazard warning flashers. Turn signal lights
The active Xenon headlights of the Volvo S80 (2nd generation, 2013–2016) significantly improve visibility in curves and at intersections by following the steering angle. This section explains the function, activation and possible faults of the system, and points out the importance of the automatic adjustment of the light pattern. In addition, the operation of the fog light, hazard warning flashers and turn signal lights is described in detail. Notes on legal use and safe handling of these lighting elements complete the information and contribute to road safety.
Active xenon headlights*
Active Xenon headlamps are designed to provide maximum possible illumination in curves and at intersections, thereby increasing safety.
Active Xenon headlamps ABL

Light pattern with the function deactivated (left) and activated (right).
If the vehicle is equipped with Active Xenon headlamps (Active Bending Lights - ABL), the headlamp beams follow the steering wheel movement to provide maximum illumination in curves and at intersections, thereby increasing safety.
The function is activated automatically when the vehicle is started (provided it has not been deactivated in the MY CAR menu system, see MY CAR). If the function malfunctions, the symbol
lights up in the instrument cluster. At the same time, an explanatory text and another symbol are shown in the information display.

The function is only active at dusk or in darkness, and only when the vehicle is moving.
The function20 can be deactivated/activated in the MY CAR menu system, see MY CAR.
To adjust the light distribution, see Headlamps - Adjusting the light pattern.
20 Activated at delivery from the factory.
Related information
- High/low beam
- Automatic high beam*
- Switch panel lighting
Rear Fog Light
If visibility is reduced due to fog, the rear fog light can be used to alert other road users early to the vehicle ahead.

Rear fog light button.
The rear fog light can only be on when ignition position II is active or the engine is running, and when the light switch rotary control is in position
or
.
Press the button to switch on/off.
The rear fog light indicator
in the instrument cluster and the lamp in the button light up when the rear fog light is switched on.
The rear fog light switches off automatically when the engine is switched off, or when the light switch rotary control is turned to
or
another position.
Regulations on the use of rear fog lights vary considerably from country to country.
Related information
- Lighting switch panel
Brake lights
The brake lights switch on automatically when braking.
The brake lights come on when the brake pedal is pressed. They also come on when one of the driver support systems (Adaptive Cruise Control, City Safety or Collision Warning) brakes the vehicle.
Related information
- Service brake - Emergency brake lights and automatic hazard warning flashers
Hazard warning lights
The hazard warning flashers warn other road users by flashing all of the vehicle's turn signal lights simultaneously when this function is activated.
When the hazard warning flashers are activated, both turn signal symbols in the instrument cluster flash.

Hazard warning flasher button.
Press the button to activate the hazard warning flashers. When the hazard warning flashers are in use, both turn signal symbols in the instrument cluster flash.
The hazard warning flashers switch on automatically if the vehicle has braked so hard that the emergency brake lights have been activated and the speed falls below 10 km/h. The hazard warning flashers remain on while the vehicle is stationary and switch off automatically when the vehicle moves off again or when the button is pressed.
Related information
- Turn signal light
- Service brake - Emergency brake lights and automatic hazard warning flashers
Turn signal light
The turn signal lights are operated with the left steering wheel lever. The turn signals flash three times, or continuously, depending on how long the lever is held up or down.

Turn signal light.
Short flashing sequence
Move the steering wheel lever up or down to the first position and release it.
The turn signal lights flash three times.
This function can be activated/deactivated in the MY CAR menu system, see MY CAR
Continuous flashing sequence
Move the steering wheel lever up or down to the outermost position. The lever stays in that position and is returned by hand or automatically when the steering wheel is turned.
Turn signal symbols
For turn signal symbols see Instrument cluster - Meaning of indicator symbols
Related information
- Hazard warning flashers
The active Xenon headlamps and the rear fog light of the Volvo S80 (2nd gen.) provide maximum safety in difficult visibility conditions. The light follows the course of the road and adapts optimally to curves and intersections.
The hazard warning flashers and the precisely functioning turn signal control also ensure that the vehicle is clearly noticed in all situations. This makes the S80 a reliable companion, whatever the conditions.
The combination of modern lighting design and intelligent assistance systems makes every journey safer and more comfortable.
Test yourself
A quick Volvo S80 quiz: every answer comes with an explanation and a link to the manual page.