S40 Transmission Fluid Question

RoseM1213 · Post by **RoseM1213** » 18 Nov 2016, 12:41

I have a 2004 S40 Turbo automatic with 116,000 miles on it. I'm always meticulous about every service. After 100,000 miles I'm changing the oil every 5,000 miles. I have always used premium gas. Just recently I have been having issues when slowing down to a stop -- the car does a hard shift. In 12 years of service, the trans. fluid has never been changed. The manual says change only if I tow something, which I don't. I've been told I need a new valve body. Another place said I should try a transmission fluid flush first. The fluid was checked and it's a very dark brown color. I have the following questions 1) should the transmission fluid ever be changed in a Volvo? 2) How can I be sure it really is a valve body problem? 3) Is it possible the transmission problem is a result of NOT changing the fluid ever? Any other advice appreciated. Thanks.

Post by **alschnertz** » 18 Nov 2016, 17:13

1. Though the owner's manual doesn't state it, yes, it is a good idea to have regular transmission fluid changes.
2. I don't know.
3. I suppose it's possible.

I would do a fluid exchange. I would not do a "power flush'.
At this point, what do you have to lose.

FWIW, I do a sump drain / refill every 15,000 miles.

RoseM1213 · Post by **RoseM1213** » 19 Nov 2016, 09:55

Thanks very much for your response.

cbburtraw · Post by **cbburtraw** » 01 Dec 2016, 16:55

Just change the fluid using JWS 3309 spec fluid. Don't use a flushing machine. Just drain the fluid, undo the cooling line, and keep adding and draining fluid until it's clean.

BTW, an OEM isn't going to recommend a service that can be stretched to 100K or more. At that point, they don't care much and it could potentially cause dealer headaches. I'd go with a 50K interval personally. Some will say more often, some will say less. YMMW.

I doubt it's a valve body problem... that's a strange diagnosis to make IMO. These are basically Toyota transmissions (made by Aisin) and they're pretty good units with fresh fluid.

I did a fluid change on mine last month and it made a world of difference. I thought mine was more or less fine, but it shifts perfectly now. Especially the torque converter clutch lockup function.

It's worth $60 bucks and an hour or two to at least try. Be sure to get the LEVEL right by following the right procedure. Changing a valve body probably isn't easy to do and would probably require transmission removal...

Fluid I used: https://www.amazon.com/Mobil-55221-Auto ... B00BLKXW9O
Tutorial: http://v70r.com/forums/topic/61542-tran ... -fill-diy/
(tutorial is actually for an s/v 40 despite the website)

malcolm2 · Post by **malcolm2** » 18 Dec 2016, 15:13

I got a tranz filter from Auto Zone. Kinda strange that they would have that, since you're not supposed to change the fluid.

I recently changed out the radiator and that is what gave me the idea to change the filter. So I will be doing the fluid exchange soon. I saw quite a few posts that recommend that vs. the flush.

Post by **precopster** » 18 Dec 2016, 16:30

The filter is ONLY accessible by total disassembly of the transmission. Get your money back if you can.

mf70 · Post by **mf70** » 20 Dec 2016, 07:49

As to the OP question #3, avoiding damage is the POINT of changing the oil. You have a hidden dip stick for the trans fluid, Have a look at the fluid. If it's brown or black, change it out. There are a number of threads on the procedure.