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Synthetic oil is not used when the oil is changed at the normal maintenance intervals except at owner request and
at additional charge. Please consult a trained and qualified Volvo service technician.
Checking and adding oil
The oil level should be checked every time the vehicle is refueled. This is especially important during the period up to
the first scheduled maintenance service
The car should be parked on a level surface when the oil is checked.
If the engine is warm , wait for at least 10-15 minutes after the engine has been switched off before checking the oil.
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.
NOTE
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.
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206 09 Maintenance and servicing
Fluids
WARNING
Do not allow oil to spill onto or come into contact with hot exhaust pipe surfaces
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 54
) 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.
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 qualified
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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
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).
207 09 Maintenance and servicing
Fluids
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.
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
qualified Volvo service technician.
Power steering fluid
The fluid level is checked at each service interval.
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2 0 0 8
VOLVO S40
246 11 Specifications
Label information 248
Dimensions and weights250
Engine oil253
Engine specifications255
Electrical system256
Volvo programs259
247 11 Specifications
248 11 Specifications
Label information
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1FWD = Front Wheel Drive
2AWD = All Wheel Drive
3Models equipped with the B5244S7 engine (engine code 39, which is the 6th and 7th digits from the left in your vehicle's VIN number, see page
249 for the location of the VIN plate), may not be used to tow trailers or vehicles of any kind. This could cause damage to the vehicle's emission
control systems.
252 11 Specifications
Dimensions and weights
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).
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253 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 your Volvo retailer or a trained and qualified Volvo service technician for recommendations on
premium or synthetic oils.
Oil additives must not be used.
NOTE
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.
254 11 Specifications
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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
comparison to a reference oil.
1See the information on page 254.
255 11 Specifications
Engine specifications
1The engine specifications for horsepower and torque listed in this table are based on the use of premium fuel.
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
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D
Dimensions250
Disabling the passenger's side front airbag21
Display, instrument panel49
Door open warning55
Driving through water129
DSTC, stability system53
Dynamic Stability and Traction Control (DSTC)149
E
Economical driving128
Electrical current - conserving130
Electrical system256
Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD)148
Electronic Climate Control (ECC) - option92
Emergency brake lights60
Emission inspection readiness202
Engine oil
changing205
specifications253
Engine specifications255
Environment7
Equalizer, audio system233
F
Federal Clean Air Act200
Floor mats placing correctly137
FM1/FM2 menu245
Fog lights
front (option)60
rear53, 60
Front airbags18-19, 21
Front fog light, replacing216
Front seats, manual adjustment98
Front seats, power99
Fuel filler cap6
Fuel filler door6, 133
Fuel filler door, unlocking60
Fuel level warning light53
Fuel requirements132
Fuel system255
Fuses, replacing220
G
Gasoline131
Geartronic (manual shifting)141
General information86
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