Hello

I have just bought a 1997 volvo 940 which has run for 294.000 km. It is in good condition, but the service book is missing.
What type of oil should i use?
10w-40, 15w40, 5w-40?
I will be driving in denmark, so ambient temperatures will range from -20 to + 30-ish.
Any help will be much appreciated.

 

Your 940 motor is so tough it would even run on Mc Donalds deepfry cooking oil without any problem,I can guaranty you that.I would however suggest you 10W-40 semi synthetic oil which I use in those same temp.If you wish you may also use fully synthetic oil instead.

 

I have seen a film on youtube where a 740 ran dry without oil for 10 minutes before the engine broke down.So now you know how strong the 740 and 940 engines are

 

see:
1995 Volvo 940

 

Use 10-30 full synthetic, with MANN filter, change it every 9,000kms.

 

I use conventional Shell Rotella motor oil. It is a high detergent motor oil formulated for diesel engines that can also be used in gasoline engines.

 

The b230 motor is probably the best ever made in terms of durability and abuse tolerance. I'd suggest Volvo owners worry about the maintenance of the transmission, coolant system and other parts of the car as generally the block is the last thing to go in a Volvo Red Block. Excessive oil concerns are valid but much more appropriate for other motors...