Help diagnosing oil leak please V70 bi fuel
 

Hi all,

I accidentally posted this in the pre2000 thread, so thought I'd repost here.

I'm new to this forum and looking to buy my first Volvo.

I've seen a Bi fuel 2003 V70 that I like, but I looked under the chassis and noticed oil had been leaking. I have attached a couple of photos and would really appreciate any advice on where you think this is coming from or what the cause is for the leak.

The colour of the oil is deep redish brown if that helps, and it is quite wet liquid (not very thick)

The price is at the upper end of my budget so I'm a bit worried about it being something significant that will cost me a lot to fix.

Thanks:thumbs_up:

Is it an automatic?

Yep, it is an automatic.

I've been trying to think of any other oily red stuff that would be in the car, but keep coming back to the automatic gearbox fluid. I assume there will be a cooler, so at best - possibly a leak in the pipes that make up the feed / return to the cooler? At worst, the box itself is somehow leaking - I'm not sure how likely that is however.

Does it only leak as the engine is running? Or get worse when the engine is running?

Ok thanks indigolemon.

Do you know how much a repair might be if it turns out to be the box itself leaking?

I'll have to get back it you on the last question. I haven't bought it yet, still deciding whether it's a sensible option. I may try and view again over the weekend and let you know whether it's only when the engine is running.

Thanks

Would it be worth checking the oil level in the autobox to see if it is low. Might indicate the leak is from there. Also check the power steering rack for leaks and oil level just in case.

Dont buy it unless you are getting it for almost scrap value. Check if its original factory bi fuel or aftermarket. I wanted a V70 factory bi fuel in 2003 but Volvo had problems developing the car and then took too long to deliver which with hindsight did me a favour so I went for the D5. The older original bi fuel cars are now costing a lot to repair, if you are set on a bi fuel go for a P2 petrol engine thats had a more recent aftermarket conversion then you dont need to pay Volvo an arm and a leg for parts but get it checked over by someone who knows about them.