2003 S40 oil leak

[alschnertz]

I'm not talking about a "valve job". What I'm referring to is the replacement of the valve seals.

Head removal is not required.
It's more complicated than the camshaft sprocket repair.

If you're searching, try "Volvo 850 valve seal replacement" to get an idea what's involved.

Edit: Because the engine in your '03 is basically the same as what's in an 850 - though with one less cylinder.

[kmesse]

Is the compression test the proper test to see if I need this?

[alschnertz]

No, a compression test will not indicate worn valve seals.

Unfortunately, I'm not aware of reliable test for the valve seals.
Your symptoms, mileage, smoking after extended idling, tend to indicate this problem.
Though honestly, I don't recall many people having this issue with S40s. I thought Volvo had the issue solved by 2003. Hell, my '01 S40 has 222,000 miles and does not have any smoking issues.

It's an awful involved repair to just have to "throw the dice".

[kmesse]

I guess I'll live with the smoke til I get a new car. Had it with this one.

[jefe]

I guess I'll live with the smoke til I get a new car. Had it with this one.

[alschnertz]

I guess I'll live with the smoke til I get a new car. Had it with this one.

I get it.
It's not my intention to sound so dour, but I'm just trying to let you know what you're in for.

They're decent cars, but like anything, they need maintenance as the miles accumulate. And unlike cars of the past, they're not easy to work on. You have to have a bunch of patience, a good assortment of tools and some mechanical know-how.

I'm no professional mechanic, but have been shade-tree wrenching on my own cars for 40 years.
So I'm just giving personal experience.

[kmesse]

yeah, I appreciate it. Gotta know your limitations!