I recently bought a 2008 Volvo S40. I bought it with 52000miles and I'm now at 56800miles. I have a few questions and have received mixed suggestions/answers on numerous websites.

1- Should I be using 5W-30?
2- Any major difference between Castrol and Valvoline
3- Most important... When it comes time to top off my oil or change it... Should I be using Regular or Synthetic??

Thanks for your help,

Shayne

 

I have always used a good quality full synthetic in my '02 S40 1.9T and '05 V50 T5 mainly because of the turbos. I mostly use Mobil 1, Castrol Edge and occasionally Royal Purple which ever is on sale. As far as viscosity, stick with what the owner's manual says and you should be good. I typically run 5W30 in winter and 10W30 in summer (Maryland).
Stan

 

1. Yes
2. No
3. Synthetic

Asking about oil is like asking about someone's favorite actor. You will get all kinds of opinions. I'd mainly follow what the owner's manual says really.

 

I appreciate it guys, thanks again