Those of a certain age will know, or remember, how lighter fluid smells. I was checking the oil on 2006 V70T last night (along with other fluid levels) and for the first time noticed a scent of lighter fluid from the oil on the dipstick. Repeated, and it was the same.

Either I am crazy (which is possible) or there is something very odd happening in the crankcase. The scent wasn't really strong, but it was noticeable.

Anybody ever notice this before?

Oil has about 2500 on it, dealer change (supposed to be Valvoline per invoice) with new filter cannister at that time. Car has 37500 miles on it.

Or is this some sign of oil breakdown?

Thanks.

 

I know what you are talking about. Unfortunately, the only time I had oil smell like that, there were head issues from fuel getting in there. Either a bad gasket or cracked head.

 

That's what I was afraid of. Does anybody know how to get in touch with that oil testing service? If i its gone bad, I want it fixed under the CPO program before Volvo gets sold and who, exactly will know what will happen?

Thanks.

P.S. It is a lighter fluid smell, not gasoline smell. Years and years ago I burned a piston on a junker VW Beetle and it would quickly dilute the oil. I got to to tjhe point of using several cans of STP (remember that?) instead of motor oil. Didn't last too long in any event.

 

I use Blackstone Labs for used oil analysis (UOA) and they are very good to deal with. You can find them at: http://www.blackstone-labs.com/

Good luck, Al. Wise