Although some oil consumption occurs during normal engine operation, more oil is consumed when the engine is new
as the internal parts generate higher friction while wearing-in to each other. From the time the engine is new until the
first service is performed, the oil consumption could be higher than normal. For this reason, it is especially important
to check the oil every time you refuel your vehicle during this period. See page 193
.
Fuel requirements
Deposit control gasoline (detergent additives)
Volvo recommends the use of detergent gasoline to control engine deposits. Detergent gasoline is effective in keeping
injectors and intake valves clean. Consistent use of deposit control gasolines will help ensure good drivability and fuel
economy. If you are not sure whether the gasoline contains deposit control additives, check with the service station
operator.
NOTE
Volvo does not recommend the use of external fuel injector cleaning systems.
Unleaded fuel
Each Volvo has a three-way catalytic converter and must use only unleaded gasoline. U.S. and Canadian regulations
require that pumps delivering unleaded gasoline be labelled "UNLEADED". Only these pumps have nozzles which fit
your vehicle's filler inlet. It is unlawful to dispense leaded fuel into a vehicle labelled "unleaded gasoline only".
Leaded gasoline damages the three-way catalytic converter and the heated oxygen sensor system. Repeated use of
leaded gasoline will lessen the effectiveness of the emission control system and could result in loss of emission
warranty coverage. State and local vehicle inspection programs will make detection of misfueling easier, possibly
resulting in emission test failure for misfueled vehicles.
NOTE
Some U.S. and Canadian gasolines contain an octane enhancing additive called methyl-cyclopentadienyl manganese
tricarbonyl (MMT). If such fuels are used, your Emission Control System performance may be affected, and the
Check Engine Light (malfunction indicator lamp) located on your instrument panel may light. If this occurs, please
return your vehicle to a trained and qualified Volvo service technician for service.
Gasoline containing alcohol and ethers "Oxygenated fuels"
Some fuel suppliers sell gasoline containing "oxygenates" which are usually alcohols or ethers. In some areas, state or
local laws require that the service pump be marked indicating use of alcohols or ethers. However, there are areas in
which the pumps are unmarked. If you are not sure whether there is alcohol or ethers in the gasoline you buy, check
with the service station operator. To meet seasonal air quality standards, some areas require the use of "oxygenated"
fuel.
Volvo allows the use of the following "oxygenated" fuels; however, the octane ratings listed on this page must still be
met.
123 06 Starting and driving
General information
Alcohol - Ethanol: Fuels containing up to 10% ethanol by volume may be used. Ethanol may also be referred to as
Ethyl alcohol, or "Gasohol".
Ethers - MTBE: Fuels containing up to 15% MTBE may be used.
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Oil additives must not be used.
NOTE
Synthetic oil is not used when the oil is changed at the normal maintenance services. 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.
193 09 Maintenance and servicing
Engine oil
American Petroleum Institute (API) symbol
The API Service Symbol "donut" is divided into three parts:
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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.
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 50
) 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 a trained and qualified Volvo service technician for more information.
Changing engine oil and oil filter
See the previous page for oil specifications and page 246
for oil volumes. Refer to the Warranty and Service Records
Information booklet for information on the oil change intervals.
NOTE
Volvo does not recommend the use of oil additives.
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 vehicle 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 mark.
194 09 Maintenance and servicing
Engine oil
CAUTION
Not checking the oil level regularly can result in serious engine damage if the oil level becomes too low.
Never fill oil above the MAX mark. This could cause an increase in oil consumption.
Not checking the oil level regularly can result in serious engine damage if the oil level becomes too low.
Always add oil of the same type and viscosity as already used.
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