2020 S60 T5 Coolant Flush - DIY or Dealer?

Hi Sarah,

Great question about your 2020 Volvo S60 T5 Momentum's coolant system. While Volvo often specifies 'lifetime' coolant, it's generally good practice to consider a coolant flush and replacement every 5 years or 60,000-100,000 miles, whichever comes first, for optimal engine health and longevity. This preventative maintenance helps prevent corrosion, maintain proper engine operating temperatures, and ensures the coolant's protective additives are still effective.

Here's what you need to know:

1. Coolant Type is Crucial: For your 2020 S60, you must use a Volvo-specific coolant. This is typically a Hybrid Organic Acid Technology (HOAT) coolant, often blue or green in color. Using the wrong type can lead to corrosion, seal degradation, and system blockages. Always check your owner's manual for the exact specification or consult a Volvo parts department. Do not mix different types of coolant.

2. DIY Considerations:

   • Safety First: Ensure the engine is completely cold before starting. Coolant can be extremely hot and under pressure.
   • Draining: Locate the radiator drain plug (usually at the bottom of the radiator). Some models may also have an engine block drain. Drain the old coolant into a suitable container for proper disposal.
   • Flushing (Optional but Recommended): You can flush the system with distilled water until the drained water runs clear. This removes old coolant residue.
   • Refilling: Slowly refill the system with the correct Volvo coolant. A spill-free funnel can be very helpful here.
   • Bleeding Air: This is the 'tricky' part. Run the engine with the heater on full blast (to open the heater core valve), with the radiator cap off (or funnel in place). Squeeze the upper and lower radiator hoses repeatedly to help dislodge air bubbles. Monitor the coolant level and top up as needed. Drive the car, let it cool, and recheck the level, topping up again if necessary. You might need to repeat this process over a few drive cycles.

3. When to See a Shop:

   • If you're uncomfortable with any part of the process, especially the air bleeding, a professional shop has specialized vacuum fill tools that make bleeding much easier and more thorough.
   • If you can't locate the drain points or are unsure about the correct coolant type.
   • If you notice any signs of leaks or persistent overheating issues, which could indicate a more serious problem beyond just needing a flush.
   • Proper disposal of old coolant is environmentally important, and shops are equipped to handle this.

While a DIY coolant flush is certainly possible for a handy individual, the specific coolant requirement and the importance of thorough air bleeding make it a task where attention to detail is paramount. If in doubt, a Volvo specialist or dealership can perform this service correctly and efficiently.