So I'll get right to it. I had a coolant leak on the bottom radiator hose. I would lose coolant frequently. It seems to have mixed with my oil because i have yellow sludge on dipstick as well.
I also need the rest of my ignition coils changed. I've done one, and replaced the spark plugs. Yesterday i received the slow down shift up error message and the car cut off. Now it will not start and makes a God awful grinding clunking noise when i try to turn the ignition over but it shakes the engine block and makes that loud noise. Has anyone had this problem or know what it may be? Please help save my first paid off car. My love, my 06' Volvo S40

 

i would deal with the coolant in the oil problem first. Did you ever overheat the engine while the coolant leak was present? The yellow sludge may indicate that the head gasket is leaking and possible warped from overheating. Maybe start with a simple compression test to see if the head is at issue.

 

Yes it did overheat a few times with the leak. I didn't notice the hose leak until I saw the yellow sludge. I kept the coolant level topped off to compensate. I appreciate it brother.

 

I'd also change the oil and check for metal bits in the bottom of the drain pan. From what you describe it sounds like catastrophic engine failure.

 

Thanks bro. Youre right turns out my engine is locked up. Now I'm debating weather to trade the car in or try chance fixing it. The engine seized and the head gasket blew. Everything else on the car is perfect, new tires, alternator, battery, wipers, plugs, and coils. I literally just bought all that stuff with in the last 6months. You think I should just scrap it for parts, or trade it in? Or is there a chance I can fix my car without spending a fortune?

 

If it were mine I'd find a used engine and swap it out. But I have the tools and the time so the costs would be minimal. Having someone else do it costs a bunch. Prices vary depending on your location. You just have to check around.

 

Sorry to hear about your troubles. Just when you had paid it off too. What a shame.


If I liked the car and felt that it had served me well I would be seriously tempted to throw a replacement engine in there. As Hudini says it's a big job that will set you back but you've basically given the car a new life so it should serve you well for many miles to come. The good news is that there should be good availability of these engines at wreckers (I would think) as they have been around for a while and there are tons on the road.