Hi folks, I have a really silly question! I have only ever had super basic cars before, and now I need to figure out how to store my new-to-me 2019 Volvo XC60 with the T6 petrol engine (European) for a few months, no access to electricity outlet. Figured my best bet would be to disconnect the battery (is it?). But the car has two batteries, the 12 volt main and the auxiliary. I don't know if I should disconnect the auxiliary as well. People keep giving me opposite advice - some claim I only have to disconnect the 12v, others think that if I don't disconnect the auxiliary, it will be drained and need replacing. I don't even know what the auxiliary battery does! Can anyone explain and tell me what I should do (and would it be bad to disconnect both batteries, just in case?). Thanks everyone!

 

I would first verify that your "T6" Volvo has 2 batteries (Start & Auxiliary). Your owners manual (Volvo Website) will confirm what is in your car.

My understanding was that the "B" drivetrain uses the 2 battery system, yet the "T" drivetrain used only 1 battery. I may be wrong, thus the suggestion to verify through your owners manual.

 

My understanding is that all batteries will gradually internally discharge over time and when they fall below a critical voltage, they're damaged and will need replacing. Providing the vehicle is ok without any power whatsoever and that the correct re-instatement of power can be achieved, including any codes that are required, I would remove both batteries and place them on a recharging schedule of, say, 1 week charge, 4 weeks off. I have used a CTEK 'intelligent' charger on leisure batteries like this and it has served me well. Be advised, though, I have no idea of the consequences of completely removing and then re-instating battery power on modern vehicles.
Hope this helps. A

 

The B drivetrain has an additional 48 volt battery in the trunk. The starter allegedly gives a xx hp boost (they call it a mild hybrid)

 

Yes, so the B drivetrain has 2 Batteries and the older T drivetrain has only 1 battery.

 

My 2020 xc60 t6 had a small support battery under the hood, and a large 12v battery in the trunk. ( I thought all volvos that had stop/start had an additional support battery but I could easily be wrong)

My 2023 xc60 b6 has a 48 volt and a large 12v battery in the trunk. I'm not sure if there is still a small support battery under the hood. This thread discusses it on swedepeed.

https://www.swedespeed.com/threads/h...d-have.649237/