Hi All,
I left my S60 into get an oil change as it was black. The oil is still black, I mention this to the mechanic as I thought for sure new oil change would mean clean new colour. His response was that it would be black unless I get it flushed out but he would not recommend this..

Can anyone advise if I have been ripped off..

Many thanks...

 

what year is your S60 and what kind of oil was used? When you say the oil is still black, what do you mean - like its black on the dip stick AFTER it was drained and refilled?? Note if you are looking at the engine via the oil fill cap, the metal there will stain over time to a dark brown - which is normal, but should not show any signs of sludge build up. Also, always use a new filter with an oil change - using an old filter is like putting a pint or two of dirty oil back in the crank case. Also, always check the oil level after a service to make sure its filled to the correct level. If you wipe the dipstick with a white paper towel, it should only get a slight yellow tinge - no signs of black unless your new oil is black to begin with :-)

 

S60 is 2008 model. oil is black on the dip stick. not sure what type of oil was used. He said he used the correct oil for my type of vehicle. i maybe should ask what type of oil he used and check the colour.
He said he changed oil filter too.

Thanks for your response..

 

Does the oil filter look new?
The oil on the dipstick should look a clean gold-ish color especially if the filter has also been replaced at the same time.
It is true however that the oil would darken fairly quickly if the engine was significantly sludged up, say after 500 miles or so.

 

"correct" oil usually refers to the W rating ie, 5W30 non-synthetic is the standard but can be 0-30 in cold climates or 5-40 in warm. Synthetic oils in the same rating is an option but costs a bit more. The Volvo owners manual suggests Castrol but that's the marketing people at work - any name brand will typically meet all standards.

 

Oil change only done on Sunday.. Drove it home and checked dipstick.. Pure black... Haven't had a chance to check oil filter yet... Surely it should be a clean goldfish colour like you say.. Or would he have used a black colour oil...

 

Thanks... Think I have been ripped off...

 

Yes, one gets the impression that maybe the car was not serviced at all.

No new and fresh multi grade engine oil, synthetic or otherwise that I personally have seen looks dark black.
Maybe he fitted a new filter only?
The oil pan drain plug should look clean and the filter external housing would also be free from road grime/grease etc if any work had been carried out.

 

It really depends on the oil change history of the car. I have had customers who have waited too long to change their oil. Then I change it and when I check it, it still looks dirty. This is with only having been run about 30 seconds.

 

No, you haven't been ripped off. It's normal for new oil to turn black quickly as it picks up contaminants from the engine. A flush isn't always necessary unless there's significant sludge buildup. Your mechanic is likely being cautious by not recommending a flush, as it can sometimes cause more harm than good.