Hi, I just picked up a used 1999 Volvo S70 automatic 119k this morning, runs and drives nice. Went over it pretty well, but didn't notice the tranny fluid stick till getting it home (was kinda hidden under a hose and I just figured it was like other cars iv saw with no stick) anyway I took a look at the fluid its really brown kinda like used engine oil, smells OK, not Burt and tranny shifts fine. Should I change the fuild asap or just leave it alone? Also what type of fluid is used in this transmission?

Thanks;
Chad

 

Check the manual for the tranny fluid type. If you don't have a manual look at the General Section of this site and look over the sticky link, especially the new owner ones.

Also, the car you have is the slightly improved 850. So, go to the 850 section and look over the New Owner Questions link there. Great information that you will not regret gaining.

Most pros say leave the tranny alone. Most long time owners say replace the fluid asap. Most owners say DON'T FLUSH IT. A lot of use drain and refill it 3 times.

PS: We like pics...

 

Your best bet is to mity-vac as much fluid as you can out through the dipstick tube (about 2.5 quarts) and re-fill with Valvoline Max-life ATF.

Drive it for a week, then do the same thing again. I did this once per week for a month when I got my S70, just like I've done it with every other pre-owned vehicle I've ever purchased. Just keep doing it until the fluid you remove looks reasonably similar (clean and bright red) to the fluid you put in.