Engine and interior heater* - messages. Auxiliary heater*. Fuel-operated auxiliary heater*
The engine and interior heater of the Volvo S80 (2nd generation, 2013–2016) displays a range of messages and symbols, depending on the instrument cluster. This section explains which symbols appear in the information display when the heater is active, and which messages appear when the timer is activated or the fuel level is low. It also describes the function of the fuel-operated and electric auxiliary heater, which is used depending on vehicle equipment. Notes on automatic control and on deactivating the heater on short trips help optimize fuel consumption and protect the battery.
Engine and Interior Heater* - Messages
Symbols and display messages for the engine and interior heater differ depending on whether the instrument cluster is analog or digital.
When the heater is active, the heater symbol lights up in the information display.
When a timer is activated, the active timer symbol lights up in the display together with the set time next to the symbol.
Active timer symbol in the analog instrument cluster.
Active timer symbol in the digital instrument cluster.
The table shows possible symbols and display texts.
| Symbol | Message | Meaning |
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The heater is switched on and running. | |
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Auxiliary heater OFF Battery saving mode | The heater was switched off by the vehicle electronics to allow the engine to start. |
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Fuel-operated heater OFF Low fuel level | The heater cannot start due to low fuel level. This ensures that an engine start and approx. 50 km of remaining driving range are possible. |
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Fuel-operated heater maintenance required | Heater out of operation. Contact a workshop for repair. Volvo recommends contacting a Volvo authorized workshop. |
A display text disappears automatically after a while or after pressing the OK button on the turn signal lever.
Auxiliary heater*
In cold climate zones5, an auxiliary heater may be required to reach the correct engine temperature and sufficient warmth in the vehicle interior.
Vehicles with diesel engines are fitted with a fuel-operated auxiliary heater.
In semi-cold climate zones5, diesel vehicles are fitted with an electric auxiliary heater instead of a fuel-operated auxiliary heater.
In vehicles with certain gasoline engines6, an electric auxiliary heater is integrated into the vehicle's climate control system.
Related information
- Engine and interior heater
Fuel-operated auxiliary heater*
The vehicle has either an electric or a fuel-operated auxiliary heater.
The heater starts automatically when the engine is running and additional heat is required.
The heater switches off automatically once the correct temperature is reached or when the engine is switched off.
CAUTIONWhen the auxiliary heater is operating, smoke may escape from the right wheel arch of the vehicle. This is completely normal.
Auto mode or deactivation
The automatic start sequence of the auxiliary heater can be switched off if desired.
CAUTIONVolvo recommends switching off the fuel-operated auxiliary heater on short trips.
- Before starting the engine: select ignition position I.
- Press OK to access the menu.
- Use the thumbwheel to scroll step by step to Auxiliary heater7 or Settings8 and select with OK.
- Use the thumbwheel to select ON or OFF and confirm with OK.
- Exit the menu with RESET.
The menu options are only visible in ignition position I. Changes to the settings must therefore be made before starting the engine.
Interior heater*
If the auxiliary heater is supplemented by a timer function, it can be used as an interior heater.
5 Your Volvo retailer can provide more information on the geographic areas this applies to.
6 Your Volvo retailer can provide more information on the engines this applies to.
7 Analog instrument cluster.
8 Digital instrument cluster.
Electric auxiliary heater*
The vehicle has either a fuel-operated or an electric auxiliary heater.
The heater cannot be controlled manually. It is activated automatically after engine start when outside temperatures are below 14 °C, and switched off once the set interior temperature is reached.
Related information
- Engine and interior heater
* Option/accessory. For more information, see "Introduction".
The engine and interior heater as well as the auxiliary heater of the Volvo S80 (2nd generation) provide maximum comfort in cold temperatures. They keep the vehicle pre-warmed and protect the engine, improving driving comfort and service life.
Thanks to clear display messages and symbols, the heater status is always easy to recognize. Regular maintenance ensures that all functions work reliably, especially the fuel-operated auxiliary heater.
Volvo combines safety, efficiency and ease of use to meet the expectations of modern drivers.
Test yourself
A quick Volvo S80 quiz: every answer comes with an explanation and a link to the manual page.



