hi and hello:

I just noticed that my 1992 VOLVO DL-240 with 140k miles has 5W-30 engine oil in it. I called Manchester Engine Works in Manchester, VT to inquire. Unfortunately, the shop is closed. No explanation. given other than "life happens".

The owner 3 years ago said "VOLVOs love 5W-30 engine oil" I accepted his reply but always wondered why. Anybody know why 5W-30 is used in VOLVOs?Engine Oil

Thank You.

 

Per your owners manual:




That means if you are driving in conditions where the temperature is above 68 degrees Fahrenheit you should be using 10W/30.

 

+1 on trusting the owners manual. There's a lot more options now vs when the car was made - on our 2000 S40 I run 5-30 in the Winter and 10-30 in the summer using a big brand high mileage full synthetic. High mileage products have seal softeners which help older cars. Given you can see plenty of sub-zero winter days (well not this past winter :-) and 90+ in the summer, I'd recommend changing oil spring and fall and use the weights appropriate to the season.