w button and airbag light
 

hi
I have just inherited my husbands 2001 Volvo s 40. He passed away 3 weeks ago that is whyI am here with my question's. I havehardly everdriven this car .I have my own car. I have given it to my 17 year old daughter to drive. I have 2 questions
1) How do you use the w button? what gear? (automatic trans) Can you activate it while driving? Is it handy? (Boston ma)
2) the airbag guy is on. I remember my husband saying something about it being on and he wasn't worried but I just read that it means the airbag wont go off on an impact. I am letting my daughter drive this car becauseI feel it is a safer car to drive than my SUV.But I am concerned about this airbag button. any ideas on it and how much about do you think it will cost to repair. Someone told me this is a car that can only be repaired by volvo,My husband has always had the oil changed at a quickplace and we have only had to repair a turbo leak at volvo(under warranty)in this car about 4 years ago. and replaced the tires at firestone last year.
thanks for your help.

RE: w button and airbag light
 

The "W" button is for winter driving. It will help you in snow and icy conditions. It should come in very handy in the Northeast. I do believe that you can activate it while driving. I would definitely have the airbags checked by a Volvo service shop. The air bags are one part of an overall safety system designed to protect the occupant. I would not let my kids drive a car that had an air bag malfunction.

Sorry to hear of your loss.

RE: w button and airbag light
 

Hi
thanks for getting back to me!

RE: w button and airbag light
 

No problem. Generally there is always someone who can answer any of your questions. Just ask away.

RE: w button and airbag light
 

the w mode can be activated while driving, but do not activate going above 205mph. This function is for serious road conditions and what it does is enable automatic engine braking and limits the transmission to a few gears. If there is an accumulation of snow on the ground and you're going up or down hill you can use it. Also, if you shift down to 3 or 2nd gear using the shifter, the w mode will automatically come on. As far as the airbag, I would have a volvo dealership look at that. I am sorry for your loss.

RE: w button and airbag light
 

I would love to see a Volvo going above 205 MPH:D.