Volvo S40 Maintenance
by Alexander Grouch
The Volvo S40 is popular due to its lower price and smaller size in comparison to other Volvo cars. Like other Volvos, the key to a healthy-running S40 is strict adherence to Volvo's maintenance schedule. Some maintenance--such as oil and filter changes--should occur every 7,500 miles. Volvo recommends more extensive service every 30,000 miles. If you are handy with cars, you can try some of these services at home. However, most people should consult their Volvo dealer or mechanic.
Maintenance Schedule
Volvo S40s should undergo certain basic maintenance every 7,500 miles. Your first basic service will occur at 7,500 miles, followed by more detailed service at 15,000, 30,000, 45,000, 60,000, 75,000 and 90,000 miles. All services require checks of the wiper blades, brake pads, tire pressure and an oil change. Volvo Care's 7,500-mile and 22,500-mile services will also include tire rotation. The 15,000-mile service includes a check of battery fluid levels, engine coolant levels, lights and controls, cabin air filter replacement and a lubrication of door hinges and trunk hinges. The 30,000-mile service includes everything that the 15,000-mile service includes, plus a fuel and brake inspection and a check of your spare tire's air pressure.
Other recommended Volvo S40 services include an air cabin cartridge change at 37,500 miles and 75,000 miles, spark plug replacement at 60,000 miles and brake fluid replacement every 37,500 miles.
Over-100,000-Mile Maintenance
For Volvo S40s that have more than 100,000 miles, maintenance is recommended every 7,500 miles, starting with 105,000. Major maintenance occur at 105,000 miles, 120,000 miles and 150,000 miles. Beyond 150,000 miles, major service occurs every 30,000 miles or as recommended by your mechanic.
The 105,000-mile maintenance will include standard oil and filter changes, plus fuel filter replacement and inspection of parts such as the drive axles and suspension. Your 120,000-mile service will include major repairs and service such as brake fluid replacement, spark plug replacement and auxiliary drive belt replacement. Your 150,000-mile maintenance will also include spark plug changes, brake fluid flushing and changing of additional auxiliary drive belt parts.
Regualar Maintenance
In addition to major mile-based maintenance and upkeep, it's important to carry out basic self-maintenance on a monthly basis. Monthly maintenance includes checking tire pressure during cold months, ensuring fluid levels are between the minimum and maximum markings and battery terminal inspection. The Volvo S40 manual also recommends simple fix-ups each time you refuel your car, such as checking the engine oil level and wiping down your windshield, wipers, headlights and taillights.
Change your oil and oil filter every 7,500 miles. During oil changes, have your battery inspected, coolant levels checked and topped off and tire air pressure checked.
References
Writer Bio
Alexander Grouch is a freelance screenwriter, journalist and children's book author. He currently writes music reviews for "The Red Alert." Grouch has visited all 48 contiguous states and plans to document his journeys in a travelogue. He earned a Bachelor of Arts in Africana studies from Brown University.
