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Checking the oil
1. Pull out the dipstick and wipe it with a lint-free rag.
2. Reinsert the dipstick, pull it out, and check the oil level.
3. Add oil if necessary. If the level is close to the MIN mark, add approximately 1 US quart (1 liter) of oil.
4. Run the engine until it reaches normal operating temperature.
5. Switch off the engine and wait for at least 10-15 minutes and recheck the oil level. If necessary, add oil until the
level is near the MAX mark.
CAUTION
Not checking the oil level regularly can result in serious engine damage if the oil level becomes too low.
Oil that is lower than the specified quality can damage the engine.
Always add oil of the same type and viscosity as already used.
Never fill oil above the MAX mark. This could cause an increase in oil consumption.
204 09 Maintenance and servicing
Engine oil
WARNING
Do not allow oil to spill onto or come into contact with hot exhaust pipe surfaces.
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NOTE
Volvo uses different systems to indicate a low oil level or pressure. Some models have an oil pressure sensor, in
which case a warning symbol (see page 51
) is used to indicate low oil pressure. Other models have an oil level
sensor, in which case the driver is alerted by the warning symbol in the center of the instrument panel and a text in
the information display. Some models use both systems. Contact an authorized Volvo retailer for more information
205 09 Maintenance and servicing
Fluids
Washer fluid
The washer fluid reservoir is located in the engine compartment and holds approximately 6.8 US qts (6.5 liters).
During cold weather, the reservoir should be filled with windshield washer solvent containing antifreeze.
Coolant
Normally, the coolant does not need to be changed. If the system must be drained, consult a trained and authorized
Volvo service technician.
NOTE
Do not top off with water only. This reduces the rust-protective and antifreeze qualities of the coolant and has a
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lower boiling point. It can also cause damage to the cooling system if it should freeze. Top off with Volvo Genuine
Coolant/Antifreeze only (a 50/50 mix of water and antifreeze).
CAUTION
The cooling system must always be kept filled to the correct level, and the level must be between the MIN and
MAX marks. If it is not kept filled, there can be high local temperatures in the engine which could result in damage.
Different types of antifreeze/coolant may not be mixed. Check coolant regularly!
WARNING
Never remove the radiator cap while the engine is warm. Wait until the vehicle cools. If it is necessary to top off the
coolant when the engine is warm, unscrew the expansion tank cap slowly so that the overpressure dissipates.
206 09 Maintenance and servicing
Fluids
Brake fluid
The brake fluid should always be between the MIN and MAX marks on the side of the reservoir. Check, without
removing the cap, that there is sufficient fluid in the reservoir.
Fluid type : DOT 4+ boiling point >536°F (280°C), P/N 9437433
Replace : The fluid should be replaced according to the intervals specified in the Warranty and Service Records
Information booklet. When driving under extremely hard conditions (mountain driving, etc), it may be necessary to
replace the fluid more often. Consult your Volvo retailer. Always entrust brake fluid changing to a trained and
authorized Volvo service technician.
Power steering fluid
The fluid level is checked at each service interval.
Fluid type : Volvo power steering fluid or equivalent.
Replace : No fluid change required.
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2. Install the battery's retaining clamp.
3. Reinstall the front side of the battery box.
4. Connect the positive cable.
5. Connect the ground cable.
6. Reinstall the cover over the battery.
NOTE
Used batteries should be properly disposed of at a recycling station or similar facility, or taken to your Volvo
retailer.
WARNING
Never expose the battery to open flame or electric spark.
Do not smoke near the battery.
Battery fluid contains sulfuric acid. Do not allow battery fluid to contact eyes, skin, fabrics or painted surfaces. If
contact occurs, flush the affected area immediately with water. Obtain medical help immediately if eyes are affected.
210 09 Maintenance and servicing
Bulbs
Introduction
Before replacing bulbs in your vehicle, please keep the following points in mind
NOTE
Never touch the glass of bulbs with your fingers. Grease and oils from your fingers vaporize in the heat and will
leave a deposit on the reflector, which will damage it.
Certain bulbs not listed here should only be replaced by an authorized Volvo service technician.
Certain bulbs should only be replaced by a trained and qualified Volvo service technician. These include:
- Courtesy (dome) lighting
- Reading lights
- Glove compartment lights
- Turn signals and courtesy lights in the side door mirrors
- High-mounted brake lights
- Brake lights
- Bi -Xenon® headlights (option)
WARNING
Bi -Xenon® headlights (option) - due to the high voltage used by these headlights, these bulbs should only be
replaced by an authorized Volvo service technician.
211 09 Maintenance and servicing
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2 0 0 8
VOLVO C30
244 11 Specifications
Label information 246
Dimensions and weights248
Fluid capacities250
Engine oil251
Engine specifications253
Electrical system255
Three-way catalytic converter257
Volvo programs258
245 11 Specifications
246 11 Specifications
Label information
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250 11 Specifications
Fluid capacities
Specifications and capacities
NOTE
The transmission oil does not normally need to be changed during the service life of the vehicle. However, it may be
necessary to replace the oil if the vehicle is often driven in areas of sustained temperature extremes (hot or cold), when
towing a trailer over long distances, for prolonged driving in mountainous areas, or if the vehicle is often driven short
distances in temperatures under 40°F (5°C).
251 11 Specifications
Engine oil
Oil specifications
Engine oil must meet the minimum ILSAC specification GF-3, API SL, or ACEA A1/B1. Lower quality oils may not
offer the same fuel economy, engine performance, or engine protection.
Volume: 6.1 US qts (5.8 liters).
Volume between the MIN and Max marks on the dipstick: approximately 1.4 US qts (1.3 liters).
Volvo recommends Castrol.
Depending on your driving habits, premium or synthetic oils may provide superior fuel economy and engine protection.
Consult a trained and qualified Volvo service technician for recommendations on premium or synthetic oils.
Oil additives must not be used.
NOTE
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Synthetic oil is not used when the oil is changed at the normal service intervals. This oil is only used at customer
request, at additional charge. Please consult a trained and qualified Volvo service technician.
Oil viscosity (stable ambient temperatures)
Operation in hot climates
When temperatures exceed 104° F (40° C) in your area, Volvo recommends, for the protection of your engine, that you
use a heavier weight oil, such as such as SAE 5W -40 or 0W -40. See the viscosity chart.
Operation in temperate climates
Incorrect viscosity oil can shorten engine life. Under normal use when temperatures do not exceed 104° F (40° C), SAE
5W -30 will provide good fuel economy and engine protection. See the viscosity chart.
Extreme engine operation
Synthetic oils meeting SAE 0W -30 or 0W -40 and complying with oil quality requirements are recommended for driving
in areas of sustained temperature extremes (hot or cold), when towing a trailer over long distances, and for prolonged
driving in mountainous areas.
252 11 Specifications
Engine oil
American Petroleum Institute (API) symbol
The API Service Symbol "donut" is divided into three parts:
The upper section describes the oil's performance level.
The center identifies the oil's viscosity.
The lower section indicates whether the oil has demonstrated energy-conserving properties in a standard test in
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comparison to a reference oil.
253 11 Specifications
Engine specifications
1Certain markets only
2The engine specifications for horsepower and torque listed in this table are based on the use of premium fuel.
254 11 Specifications
Engine specifications
Charge air cooler (Intercooler)
Turbocharged engines employ a turbo-compressor to force air into the engine inlet manifold and a charge air cooler to
cool the compressed inlet air. The resulting increase in air flow raises pressure in the intake manifold and increases engine
power over that developed by the normally-aspirated engine. The charge air cooler (which resembles a radiator) is located
between the turbo-compressor and inlet manifold.
Fuel system
The engine is equipped with a multiport fuel injection system.
255 11 Specifications
Electrical system
General information
12-volt system with voltage controlled generator. Single wire system in which the chassis and engine block are used as
conductors, grounded on the chassis.
Battery