I am considering buying a 2002 S60 2.4 manual transmission (yes I really want that). I took it from the dealer to a volvo mechanic and the mechanic noticed it leaking oil pretty bad. Also, he reported (which I then noticed) that the engine speed would vary while idling and would 'lurch' at low speeds. His report was that the oil cooler is leaking and then throttle house needed to be cleaned. Not that big of a deal. I didn't use him before, so I don't completely trust him, but at least he isn't the dealer.

The dealer says that the description is wrong, and the problem is a cracked freeze plug.

Anyone know if the freeze plug could cause the rev issue? I suspect it could explain
the leaking fluid.

It is hard to find manual transmission S60, and the mechanic said the car looked pretty
good besides these two issues.

Should I believe the dealer and let them fix it? Should I just run away and keep looking?

Thanks,
Craig

Is the car a turbo?If it is the turbo return line is probably leaking.The idle surging is probably a dirty throttle body which is common for those cars.If you have it cleaned it should be fine.

It is not a turbo. It is just a 2.4 manual.
My mechanic said that the idle problem was a dirty
throttle body. The dealer seemed to discount that.
However, if the plug doesn't fix it, I will make them clean it.

Thanks,
Craig

There is a plug on the non-turbo models that goes into the hole to block where the turbo return line would go.So yes it could be the oil leak.