Topping up coolant

Updated 06/08/2023

The coolant cools the internal combustion engine to the correct operating temperature. The heat that is transferred from the engine to the coolant can be used to heat the passenger compartment.

When topping up the coolant, follow the instructions on the packaging. Never top up with water only. The risk of freezing increases with both too little and too much coolant concentrate.

Warning

Coolant can be very hot. If the coolant requires topping up when the engine is at operating temperature, unscrew the expansion tank cap slowly to gently release the overpressure.

P5-1617-S90/V90 Overview engine coolant — Coolant expansion tank, left-hand drive car.

Screw off the cap in the plastic cover.

Screw off the cap on the expansion tank and top up with coolant. The coolant level must not exceed the yellow MAX mark inside the expansion tank.

Reinstall the parts in reverse order.

P5-1617-S90/V90 RHD Overview engine coolant — Coolant expansion tank, right-hand drive car.

P5-1617-S90/V90 RHD Engine coolant refill 1

P5-1617-S90/V90 RHD Engine coolant refill 2

Grip the hatch's handle and lift/jiggle the hatch from the plastic cover.

Screw off the cap on the expansion tank and top up with coolant. The coolant level must not exceed the yellow MAX mark inside the expansion tank.

Reinstall the parts in reverse order.

If there is coolant under the car, if there is coolant smoke, or if more than 2 litres have been filled, always call for recovery to avoid the risk of engine damage due to a defective cooling system when attempting to start the car.

Important

A high content of chlorine, chlorides and other salts may cause corrosion in the cooling system.
Always use coolant with anti-corrosion agent as recommended by Volvo.
Ensure that the coolant mixture is 50% water and 50% coolant.
Mix the coolant with approved quality tap water. In the event of any doubt about water quality, used ready-mixed coolant in accordance with Volvo recommendations.
When changing coolant/replacing cooling system components, flush the cooling system clean with approved quality tap water or flush with ready-mixed coolant.
The engine must only be run with a well-filled cooling system. Otherwise, temperatures that are too high may occur resulting in the risk of damage (cracks) in the cylinder head.