How to Change Oil on Your Volvo S60 and S80

What You'll Need Before You Start

Changing your own oil is a task many Volvo S60 and S80 owners can handle at home. Before you begin, gather these items to make the process smoother and safer:

• New oil (check your owner's manual for the correct type and amount)
• New oil filter
• Oil drain pan
• Wrench or socket set
• Oil filter wrench
• Jack and jack stands (if needed to lift the vehicle)
• Ramps or a level surface
• Funnel
• Clean rags or paper towels
• Safety glasses

Make sure your engine is warm but not hot before you start. This helps the old oil flow out more easily and completely. A warm engine also helps you see the oil level more accurately. Give yourself plenty of time—rushing through an oil change can lead to spills or missed steps. Work in a well-lit area where you can see clearly and move around safely. If you're working in a garage, make sure it's well-ventilated since you'll be working with oil fumes.

Step 1: Locate the Drain Plug

On both the S60 and S80, the oil drain plug sits at the bottom of the engine oil pan. You may need to raise the vehicle slightly or remove the plastic undertray to reach it. Consult your owner's manual for the exact location on your model year, as different production years may have slightly different layouts.

Position your drain pan underneath the plug before you loosen it. This prevents old oil from spilling all over your driveway or garage floor. Make sure the pan is large enough to hold all the old oil—most S60 and S80 models hold between 4 and 6 quarts of oil, so use a pan with at least a 7-quart capacity to be safe. If you don't have a proper drain pan, you can use a large, shallow container, but a real drain pan makes cleanup much easier.

Step 2: Drain the Old Oil

Using your wrench or socket, turn the drain plug counterclockwise to loosen it. Once it's loose enough, carefully unscrew it by hand—watch out because the oil may still be warm even if the engine isn't hot. Let the old oil drain completely into the pan. This may take several minutes, so be patient and don't rush this step. The longer you wait, the more old oil will drain out, which is better for your engine.

While the oil is draining, wipe the drain plug clean with a rag. Look at the plug and check if it has a crush washer (a thin metal ring). If it does and it looks damaged or flattened, you'll want to replace it with a new one before reinstalling. A good crush washer helps prevent leaks and ensures a tight seal. Once the oil has stopped dripping, you're ready to move to the next step.

Step 3: Replace the Oil Filter

Locate the oil filter on your S60 or S80. On these models, it's typically mounted on the side or top of the engine. Use your oil filter wrench to turn it counterclockwise and remove it. Be careful—there may still be oil inside the filter, so point it downward into your drain pan as you unscrew it. Some oil will drip out, so don't be surprised by this.

Before installing the new filter, apply a thin layer of fresh oil to the rubber gasket on top of the new filter. This creates a better seal and makes it easier to remove the filter next time you change your oil. Screw the new filter on by hand until the gasket touches the engine, then turn it an additional three-quarter turn. Don't use your wrench to tighten the filter—hand-tight is the right amount. Over-tightening can damage the filter and make it hard to remove later.

Step 4: Reinstall the Drain Plug

Screw the drain plug back in by hand first to make sure the threads line up correctly. Then use your wrench to tighten it. Don't over-tighten—snug is enough. You want it tight enough that it won't leak, but not so tight that you'll strip the threads or have trouble removing it next time. If your drain plug has a crush washer, you may want to replace it with a new one each time you change your oil for the best seal.

After tightening, double-check that the plug is secure by giving it a gentle tug with your wrench. Make sure there are no drips coming from around the plug. If you see any leaks, tighten it just a bit more, but be careful not to overdo it.

Step 5: Add New Oil

Place a funnel in the oil filler cap opening on top of the engine. Pour in the new oil slowly and carefully. Your owner's manual tells you exactly how much your S60 or S80 needs—don't just guess. Pouring too much oil can damage your engine, and not pouring enough can cause engine problems too. Take your time with this step and pour steadily.

After adding oil, wait a minute or two for it to settle into the pan. This gives you a more accurate reading when you check the level. During this waiting time, you can clean up any spills or organize your tools. Don't rush to check the level right away—the oil needs time to flow down into the pan.

Step 6: Check Your Oil Level

Pull out the dipstick (or use your vehicle's electronic oil level display if your S60 or S80 is equipped with one). Wipe the dipstick clean with a rag, reinsert it fully into the tube, then pull it out again to read the level. The oil should reach the full mark on the stick. If it's below the full mark, add a bit more oil in small amounts and check again.

Checking the oil level is an important step because it ensures your engine has enough oil to run properly. Too little oil can cause engine damage, and too much can cause problems too. Take your time with this step and make sure you get it right before you start the engine.

Step 7: Start Your Engine and Check for Leaks

Start the engine and let it run for a few seconds. The oil pressure light on your dashboard should come on briefly, then turn off. This confirms the new filter is working and oil is circulating through your engine. If the light stays on, turn off the engine immediately and check your work—you may have a loose connection or other problem.

Turn off the engine and wait a minute, then check around the drain plug and filter for any leaks. If you see drips or small puddles, tighten those connections slightly. Be careful not to over-tighten, but make sure everything is snug. Small drips can become big problems if you don't address them now.

Step 8: Final Check

After the engine cools completely, check your oil level one more time to make sure it's at the proper mark. This final check ensures everything is correct before you consider the job finished. Dispose of your old oil at a recycling center or auto parts store—never pour it down a drain or into the ground, as used oil is harmful to the environment.

Record the date and mileage of your oil change in your maintenance records or in a notebook you keep in your vehicle. This helps you track when your next oil change is due and gives you a record of your vehicle's maintenance history. Many owners find this information valuable for resale or warranty purposes.

Key Takeaways

• Gather all tools and materials before you start—having everything ready makes the job go smoothly.
• Always work with a warm (not hot) engine to help old oil drain completely.
• Replace both the oil and the filter every time you do an oil change.
• Use the correct type and amount of oil for your S60 or S80 model—check your owner's manual.
• Check for leaks after starting the engine and again after it cools.
• Keep records of your oil changes for maintenance tracking.
• Dispose of old oil responsibly at a recycling center or auto parts store.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I change the oil in my S60 or S80?

Most Volvo S60 and S80 models need an oil change every 10,000 to 15,000 miles, depending on your model year and driving conditions. Check your owner's manual for the specific interval for your vehicle. Some newer models may have longer intervals, while older models might need more frequent changes. Your manual is the best source for this information.

What type of oil does my Volvo S60 or S80 need?

The correct oil type depends on your model year and engine size. Your owner's manual will list the exact oil viscosity and specification you need. Common choices for Volvo vehicles include 5W-30 and 0W-30 oils, but don't assume—always check your manual. Using the wrong oil can affect engine performance and longevity.

Can I reuse my old oil filter?

No, you should always install a new oil filter every time you change your oil. Oil filters become saturated with contaminants and lose their effectiveness after use. A new filter ensures your engine stays clean and protected. Reusing an old filter defeats the purpose of changing your oil.

What should I do if I spill oil while changing it?

If you spill oil, clean it up immediately with rags or paper towels. For larger spills on concrete, you can use cat litter or an oil absorbent product to soak up the spill, then sweep it up. Never let oil run into storm drains or onto the ground. Dispose of the contaminated materials and rags properly at a hazardous waste facility or auto parts store.

Is it normal for a small amount of oil to leak after I start the engine?

A few small drips immediately after starting are sometimes normal as the new filter fills with oil. However, if you see steady leaking or drips that continue after a few minutes, you likely have a loose connection. Turn off the engine and tighten the drain plug or filter slightly. Check again after starting the engine.