How to Check the Oil Dipstick in a Volvo?
3 Answers
Volvo's method for checking the oil dipstick is as follows: 1. Open the driver's side door; 2. Pull the hood release lever located on the left side of the driver's footwell; 3. Lift the engine hood upwards; 4. Secure the hood with the support rod; 5. The oil dipstick is positioned on the left side of the battery in the engine compartment. The oil filler cap and dipstick are connected - simply unscrew the oil filler cap to access the dipstick. Taking the Volvo S60 as an example, its body dimensions are: length 4761mm, width 1850mm, height 1437mm, with a wheelbase of 2872mm and a trunk capacity of 380 liters.
I've been driving a Volvo XC60 for a few years now, and my habit is to check the dipstick before every car wash. You must find a completely level spot to park, turn off the engine, and wait 10 minutes for the oil to settle—otherwise, the reading won't be accurate. The dipstick is usually located on the front right side of the engine, and that little yellow or orange ring is easy to spot. Pull it out slowly—no rush—and wipe off the old oil residue with a kitchen towel or clean cloth, especially those oil spots at the tip. After wiping it clean, push it all the way back in until it clicks, wait two seconds, then gently pull it out again and check the oil line against the light. It should be right between the Min and Max marks. If it's too close to Min, you'll need to top it up with oil—stick to Volvo's recommended specs and avoid mixing brands. Remember not to do this when the engine is scalding hot—I once burned my fingertip rushing it and even contaminated the oil. It's best to check every thousand kilometers; I set a reminder on my phone, so the engine stays trouble-free.
As a young guy driving a Volvo S90, I find checking the dipstick pretty straightforward. Just find a level spot like a supermarket parking lot, park securely, and shut off the engine—I usually wait for it to cool down a bit before checking. The dipstick is located at the front left corner under the hood, marked by a small orange handle. Pull it out and wipe it thoroughly, especially the oil layers near the tip—an old T-shirt works fine. After cleaning, reinsert it fully, wait a few seconds, then pull it out again to check. The oil level must be between the L and H marks—too high and you risk oil flooding the engine (wasting money), too low and the engine starts knocking. When topping up, use a funnel and pour slowly into the oil filler hole to avoid spills. I recommend cross-checking with the dashboard oil warning light, but waiting for it to light up is already late. Make it a habit to check monthly—it saves money and gives peace of mind.
