AWD Transmission: XC90 Oil Level Check ?

[magni]

OK this is probably a dumb question, but how can I check the oil level in my XC90s automatic box, my user manual makes no mention of how to do this, nor can I see a seperate dip stick.

Tkx Confused

[Rockhopper]

Hi - its hidden away low down on the front of the gearbox block. Look for a small yellow round-headed plastic dipstick like this:



Check level when hot and cold. Fluid should be cherry red (or at least a shade thereof!) but definitely not sludge dark brown.

I changed mine at 66k using the 'Gibbons' method - plenty info here and here. Just make sure its to 3309 spec (I used GM branded stuff as per Saab autos using same gearbox). Much smoother changes and nice peace of mind.

[magni]

Hi Rockhopper

Thanks very much, 1st job tomorrow.

Rgds Magnimike

[Prototype]

Originally Posted by Rockhopper

Hi - its hidden away low down on the front of the gearbox block. Look for a small yellow round-headed plastic dipstick like this:



Check level when hot and cold. Fluid should be cherry red (or at least a shade thereof!) but definitely not sludge dark brown.

I changed mine at 66k using the 'Gibbons' method - plenty info here and here. Just make sure its to 3309 spec (I used GM branded stuff as per Saab autos using same gearbox). Much smoother changes and nice peace of mind.

I need to change the oil in my auto box. It is a very dark shade of red.

Do you know of the best way to do a complete oil change and is there a filter inside the box which can be changed at the same time?

[Rockhopper]

No filter needed. Complete change needs a flush rather than just draining from sump and refilling (via dipstick) - you only change 3 litres or so with a drain as opposed to the full 7 - hence best getting 10 litres or so of ATF to complete a flush.

I used the (slightly easier) method as described in the links above.

Official Volvo method (VADIS) is this:

[Prototype]

Hey Rockhopper Many thanks for the info.

Where did you get this from, can I download the manual from somewhere?

[Rockhopper]

If you're not familiar with torrents , then eBay is your friend....

[hut160]

Dear All
I have just joined after the purchase of 2006 xc90 185 bhp with 91000 on the clock.this forum has been an invaluable source, and after reading up about transmission failure I am keen to check how cherry red the fluid is.(We have had volvos in the past a 340 and 740 glt, both very reliable engines, and after shelling out quite a bit of money, and we weant to keep this one for a few years I want to learn how to look after it)
After reading about where the dipstick is I still cannot find it.I can see the two hoses with green clips from the cooler going down into the tranny, and with a decent inspection light still cannot see dipstick.
Wherabouts is it in relation to the oil dipstick as this enters into the sump?
Are the engines different?
Thanks for any help in resolving
I have got the vadis from ebay , and awaiting its arrival, but again not sure that it covers this model
Andrew

[Volvo4skier]

Does anyone know the location of the transmission dipstick on the V8.

And the drain plug for the coolant.

Thanks in advance.

[Jim314]

Mt wife's 2007 XC90 3.2L with 6-spd auto has no tranny dipstick. There might be a procedure to determine fluid level via the message system, but probably you need to go through the diagnostic port. I think the system will give a message if the fluid level gets low. Just take it to the dealer and get a tranny fluid change every maybe 7 years or 60 to 80 kmi.

There may be a drain valve for the engine coolant on the left bottom of the radiator integral with the plastic connection for the lower radiator hose. But a lot of people would just disconnect the lower hose at the connector. But why do you want to drain coolant? The anti-corrosion chemicals are good for at least 5 years or 150 kmi. The ethylene glycol anti-freeze is toxic, and a disposal problem. Just have the dealer or other garage change the coolant every 5 to 7 years. If other than the dealer, you should use Volvo coolant or one with equivalent or compatible chemical additives. I think Volvo uses Zerex G-05, but you'd have to be sure yourself.