Driver assistance

Collision warning system* - Symbols and messages. Driver Alert System* 31. Driver Alert Control - (DAC)*. Driver Alert Control (DAC)* - Operation

~5min read

The collision warning system of the Volvo S80 (2nd generation, 2013–2016) informs the driver about status and faults using symbols and messages. This section shows typical displays and explains their meaning for safety. It also introduces the Driver Alert System, which warns the driver of signs of fatigue. Notes on safe use complete the information.

Collision warning* - Symbols and messages

The "Forward collision warning with automatic braking and pedestrian and cyclist detection" supports the driver if there is a risk of colliding with a pedestrian, or with a vehicle or bicycle that is stopped or traveling in the same direction in front of the vehicle.

Symbol A Message Meaning
Collision warning system OFF Collision warning system switched off.

Shown when the engine starts.

The message goes out after approx. 5 seconds or when the OK button is pressed.

Collision warning system not available The collision warning system cannot be activated.

Shown when the driver tries to activate the function.

The message goes out after approx. 5 seconds or when the OK button is pressed.

Automatic braking activated Automatic braking was active.

The message goes out when the OK button is pressed.

Windshield sensors disturbed. See manual The camera sensor is temporarily out
of operation. Shown e.g. when there is snow, ice or dirt on the windshield.
  • Clean the windshield surface in front of the camera sensor.

Read about the limitations of the camera sensor.

Radar blocked See manual The collision warning system with automatic braking is temporarily out
of operation.

The radar sensor is blocked and cannot detect other vehicles, for example in heavy rain or when slush builds up in front of the radar sensor.

Find out about the limitations of the radar sensor

Collision warning service required The collision warning system with automatic braking is fully or partially out
of operation.
  • Contact a workshop if the message continues to appear. A Volvo Retailer is recommended.

A The symbols are shown schematically and may vary depending on market/country and vehicle model.

Related information

  • Collision warning*
  • Collision warning* - Function
  • Collision warning* - Pedestrian detection
  • Collision warning* - Cyclist detection
  • Collision warning* - Handling
  • Collision warning* - Limitations
  • Collision warning* - Limitations of the camera sensor

Driver Alert System*31

Driver Alert System is designed to help drivers whose driving deteriorates or who unintentionally leave their lane.

The Driver Alert System consists of several functions that can be switched on together or individually:

  • Driver Alert Control - DAC
  • Lane departure warning - LDW

An activated function is in standby mode and is only activated automatically when the speed exceeds 65 km/h.

The function is deactivated again when the speed drops below 60 km/h.

Both functions use a camera, which depends on painted lane markings on both sides of the lane.

WARNING

The Driver Alert System does not work in all situations. It is intended only as a supplementary aid.

The driver is always ultimately responsible for operating the vehicle safely.

Related information

  • Driver Alert Control - (DAC)*
  • Lane departure warning (LDW)*

31 Not available as special equipment for certain engines.

Driver Alert Control - (DAC)*

The DAC function alerts the driver when their driving becomes weaving, e.g. when they are distracted or about to fall asleep.

DAC aims to detect gradually deteriorating driving. The system is primarily intended for use on larger roads. The function is not intended for use in city traffic.

Driver Alert Control - (DAC)*

A camera detects the painted lane markings and compares the road course with the driver's steering movements. The driver is warned if the vehicle does not follow the lane smoothly.

In some cases, driving is not affected despite fatigue. The driver may then receive no warning. For this reason, always stop and take a break at any sign of fatigue, regardless of whether DAC has issued a warning.

CAUTION

Do not use this function to extend your driving time. Always plan breaks at regular intervals and make sure you are well rested.

Limitations

In certain cases the system may issue a warning even though the driver's driving has not deteriorated, e.g.:

  • in strong crosswinds
  • on grooved road surfaces.

WARNING The camera sensor has certain limitations

Related information

  • Driver Alert System*
  • Driver Alert Control (DAC)* - Operation
  • Driver Alert Control (DAC)* - Symbols and messages

Driver Alert Control (DAC)* - Operation

Settings are made on the center console display and its menu system.

On/Off

The Driver Alert function can be set to standby mode in the MY CAR menu system:

  • Box ticked – the function is activated.
  • Box empty – the function is deactivated.

Function

Driver Alert is activated when the speed exceeds 65 km/h and remains active as long as the speed is above 60 km/h.

If the vehicle is driven in an unsafe manner, the driver is alerted by an audible signal and the text message Driver Alert: Take a break! The symbol shown alongside lights up in the instrument cluster at the same time. The warning is repeated after a while if driving does not improve.

The warning symbol can be switched off:

  • Press the OK button on the left steering wheel lever.
WARNING

An alarm must be taken seriously, as a drowsy driver often does not notice their own condition.

If an alarm sounds or you notice any signs of drowsiness, stop the vehicle as soon as it is safe to do so and take a break.

Studies have shown that driving while drowsy is just as dangerous as driving under the influence of alcohol.

Related information

  • Driver Alert System*
  • Driver Alert Control - (DAC)*

The symbols and messages of the collision warning system in the Volvo S80 (2nd gen) help the driver recognize the system status and take action when needed. From simple notices and deactivated functions to warnings when automatic braking is active, the system communicates clearly.

The Driver Alert System also supports the driver by warning of signs of drowsiness and prompting breaks. Both systems complement each other to increase safety and reduce driver workload.

This shows how intelligent systems can contribute to safer driving.

Test yourself

A quick Volvo S80 quiz: every answer comes with an explanation and a link to the manual page.