Adding coolant
When adding coolant, follow the instructions on the package. Never fill the cooling system with only water. The risk of freezing increases with too low or too high amounts of coolant.
If there is coolant under the vehicle, steam from the cooling system, or if more than 2 liters (about 2 quarts) of coolant has been added to the system, there could be a problem with the cooling system and starting the vehicle could damage the engine. Call a tow truck and do not attempt to start the engine.

Coolant expansion tank



Lift the rubber strip by pressing it inward into the engine compartment.
Remove the plastic cover by folding out the catch and lifting the cover upward.
Unscrew the expansion tank cap and add coolant as needed. The level should be between the Min and Max marks on the expansion tank.
- Do not drink. May cause organ damage (kidneys).
- Use pre-mixed coolant as recommended by Volvo. If concentrated coolant is used, make sure that the coolant mixture is 50% coolant and 50% water of acceptable quality.
- Do not mix different types of coolant.
- To help ensure sufficient corrosion protection in the system, only use new coolant when replacing larger components in the cooling system.
- Never start the engine if the cooling system is not filled properly. An improperly filled cooling system could lead to high temperatures and cracks in the cylinder heads.
- High levels of chlorine, chlorides and other salts may cause corrosion in the cooling system.
Test yourself
A quick Volvo XC90 quiz: every answer comes with an explanation and a link to the manual page.