2016 Volvo XC70 Is Leaking Oil

Discovering the Causes of Oil Leaks in Your 2016 Volvo XC70 and How to Address Them Effectively

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Reviewed by
Aisha
Written by RepairPal Car Genius
Updated January 14, 2025
0%
80% chance it's the
Oil System Components
0%
20% chance it's the
Engine Gaskets
The most common reasons a 2016 Volvo XC70 is leaking oil are oil system component failure and leaking engine gaskets.
  • Oil System Components: A worn or damaged oil pump or filter can lead to low oil pressure, resulting in inadequate lubrication and potential engine damage.
  • Engine Gaskets: A worn or damaged engine gasket can lead to oil or coolant leaks, resulting in engine overheating or loss of lubrication.
Proper diagnosis will determine the exact cause of your symptom, saving you money on unnecessary repairs. The diagnostic experts at RepairPal Certified shops have the right tools and experience to solve any symptom.

How much does it cost to fix a 2016 Volvo XC70 is leaking oil?

Common Repairs

The total repair cost will vary based on the condition of your vehicle and the number of repairs needed to fix your symptom. Proper diagnosis will save you money by finding the exact repairs needed to fix your car right the first time.

Oil pans don't wear out or break like other parts, they generally only need to be replaced because of external damage from an accident or an improperly tightened drain plug. The main symptom you will experience is an oil leak underneath the engine of your car. The oil that leaks from a damaged oil pan will range from dark brown to dark black. If the leak is large enough or occurs for long enough the oil level will be low enough to turn the oil pressure or low oil level warning light on.

An oil leak may be noted on the ground where the vehicle is parked. However, many vehicles have plastic trays underneath the engine that may catch leaking oil and conceal the leak. In such cases, a low oil level, a burning oil smell, or even smoke from oil burning in the engine bay may be noted.

»MORE: Signs of a bad oil pan gasket

A bad oil level sensor may cause a false reading of the engine oil level. The oil level warning light may illuminate even when the oil level (checked manually) is within an acceptable range. The warning light may also come on and off intermittently if the sensor is faulty. An error code may be sent to the PCM and a check engine light may come on the dashboard as well if the sensor is bad.

The engine oil pressure warning light will come on if the engine oil pressure is low, or if the oil pressure sensor is faulty. In either case, engine power may be reduced significantly. The check engine light may also illuminate, and an on-board diagnostic (OBD) trouble code will be stored in the vehicle's computer.

What are the steps to diagnose the oil leak in a 2016 Volvo XC70?

To effectively diagnose an oil leak in your 2016 Volvo XC70, start with a systematic approach that prioritizes simpler checks before delving into more complex diagnostics. Begin by cleaning the engine thoroughly, as this will help you identify the source of the leak more easily by eliminating oil, dirt, and grime that can obscure the problem area. Next, inspect the turbo oil line banjo bolt, a common leak point in these vehicles, for any signs of oil seeping. Following this, examine the camshaft seals and crankshaft seal, as these components are also known to fail and can lead to significant leaks. Don’t overlook the area between the flywheel housing and the block on the passenger side, which is another potential source of oil leakage. Throughout this process, it’s crucial to monitor your oil levels and pressure, as fluctuations can indicate underlying issues that need to be addressed. By following this diagnostic approach, you can pinpoint the source of the leak and take the necessary steps to resolve it, ensuring your vehicle remains in optimal condition.

What are the common causes of oil leaks in a 2016 Volvo XC70?

When dealing with oil leaks in a 2016 Volvo XC70, it's essential to recognize the common culprits that may be at play. Worn gaskets, particularly around the valve cover and oil pan, are frequent offenders, as they can degrade over time and lead to leaks. Additionally, a damaged oil pan or a loose oil filter can also contribute to oil escaping from the engine. If you notice oil puddles forming under your vehicle or detect a burning oil smell, these are clear indicators that you should investigate further. Pay attention to dashboard warnings related to oil pressure, as they can signal a more serious issue. Regularly checking your engine oil levels and adhering to recommended oil change intervals can help prevent leaks and maintain your vehicle's performance. By staying vigilant and performing routine maintenance, you can address potential problems before they escalate, ensuring your Volvo XC70 remains in optimal condition.

How urgent is it to address the oil leak in my 2016 Volvo XC70?

Addressing an oil leak in your 2016 Volvo XC70 is not just a matter of routine maintenance; it is a critical issue that demands immediate attention. Ignoring an oil leak can lead to severe engine damage, as the loss of oil can compromise lubrication and cooling, resulting in overheating and potential failure of engine components. Additionally, oil leaks can damage electrical sensors, leading to costly repairs that could have been avoided with prompt action. The financial implications of neglecting an oil leak are significant, with repair costs for gaskets and oil pans often exceeding $1,000. Therefore, if you notice any signs of an oil leak, it is essential to diagnose and address the problem as soon as possible to safeguard your vehicle's performance and longevity. Taking swift action not only protects your investment but also ensures your safety on the road.

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2016 Volvo XC70 Oil Leak Causes & Repairs | RepairPal