When it comes to the heart of the S60R, the turbocharged 2.5L engine, selecting the correct viscosity and oil chemistry is paramount. The manufacturer specifies a capacity of 5.8 quarts including the filter change. While various grades are recommended for extreme temperatures, 5W-30 synthetic motor oil remains the gold standard for general operation. However, the true value of a synthetic motor oil lies in its ability to withstand the intense heat generated by the turbocharger and the high-rpm operation the S60R is capable of. AMSOIL Signature Series 5W-30 offers the absolute maximum defense against horsepower loss, while the AMSOIL Extended-Life and AMSOIL OE varieties provide excellent alternatives for those looking to balance cost and performance without compromising on the synthetic benefits. The AMSOIL 5W-30 High-Mileage Motor Oil is particularly beneficial for older S60Rs, as it helps seal aging gaskets and reduces sludge buildup that can plague high-performance engines over time.
Beyond the engine, the transmission system requires precise attention. The automatic transmission in this model relies on a fluid that can handle both rapid shifts and prolonged heat. AMSOIL Signature Series Multi-Vehicle 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid and AMSOIL OE Multi-Vehicle 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid are engineered to meet or exceed the stringent Volvo specifications. These fluids resist harmful sludge formation and provide reliable protection during severe service, ensuring that the transmission shifts smoothly without the shudder often associated with degraded fluid. Replacing the transmission fluid at recommended intervals is a proactive measure that can prevent costly internal wear and maintain the vehicle’s performance characteristics.
Cooling system integrity is equally vital for a turbocharged vehicle. The AMSOIL Passenger Car & Light Truck Antifreeze & Coolant capacity for the 2007 S60R is 9.3 quarts. AMSOIL offers two primary options: a ready-to-use Passenger Car & Light Truck Antifreeze that serves as a convenient 50/50 pre-mix, and the AMSOIL Propylene Glycol Antifreeze and Engine Coolant that requires mixing with distilled water. Both formulations utilize unique organic acid technology (OAT) that is phosphate, nitrate, and borate-free, providing broad metal compatibility. This ensures the cooling system remains free of corrosive deposits that can lead to overheating or component failure. With protection lasting up to 150,000 miles or five years, these coolants offer a significant maintenance advantage over conventional ethylene glycol products.
The braking and steering systems also benefit from the switch to synthetic fluids. The hydraulic brake system requires DOT 4 fluid, and AMSOIL DOT 3 and DOT 4 100% Synthetic Brake Fluid delivers superior consistency under extreme braking conditions. Its stable viscosity ensures predictable pedal feel and excellent responsiveness for the ABS and traction control systems. Similarly, the power steering system, which originally called for Pentosin fluid, can be maintained with AMSOIL 100% Synthetic Multi-Vehicle Power Steering Fluid. This fluid reduces friction, prevents seal hardening, and offers superior protection against heat and wear, ensuring quiet and smooth steering operation for years to come.
About the Vehicle
The 2007 Volvo S60R represents a distinctive chapter in Volvo’s history, blending the brand’s legendary safety reputation with genuine enthusiast performance. As the first high-performance model to carry the “R” designation, this sedan was designed specifically for drivers who refused to compromise between daily usability and track-ready capability. Under the hood lies the 2.5L B5254T4 inline-five engine, which was notably derived from the Volvo S80 platform but heavily modified for the S60R. This turbocharged powerplant, featuring a Garrett turbocharger, was capable of producing 300 horsepower, a significant figure for its time. It also delivered 320 lb-ft of torque, providing robust acceleration that belied the car’s understated sedan profile.
The driving dynamics of the S60R were further enhanced by a sophisticated chassis setup. It featured a sport-tuned suspension with stiffer springs and dampers compared to the standard S60, along with larger anti-roll bars to minimize body roll during cornering. The front brakes were notably large, and the car was often equipped with an electronic differential lock (EDL) to manage power delivery in slippery conditions. Inside, the cabin featured Recaro seats, providing excellent support during spirited driving, while the interior layout reflected Volvo’s focus on ergonomics and clarity. The vehicle utilized a five-speed automatic transmission, which was tuned for sporty shifts and could also be manually controlled via paddle shifters on the steering wheel.
Common issues that owners of the 2007 S60R often encounter, particularly as the vehicle ages, include carbon buildup on the intake valves and turbocharger issues related to oil varnish. The direct injection and high-turbo heat can lead to deposits that affect performance. Using a high-quality synthetic motor oil like the AMSOIL Signature Series 5W-30 helps mitigate varnish formation on the turbocharger, while regular use of a top-tier fuel system cleaner can address carbon accumulation. Another frequent concern is AMSOIL Propylene Glycol Antifreeze and Engine Coolant system corrosion, which can lead to leaks in the plastic end tanks of the radiator; using a high-performance antifreeze with robust corrosion inhibitors can extend the life of these components. Additionally, the power steering system is known to develop leaks over time due to seal hardening; the AMSOIL 100% Synthetic Multi-Vehicle Power Steering Fluid with superior seal conditioning properties is an effective preventative measure. Finally, as the transmission ages, fluid degradation can lead to hesitation or shudder during shifts, which is best addressed by regular fluid changes with a premium synthetic transmission fluid.
Owners of the S60R generally appreciate its unique character as a “sleeper” performance car that looks subtle but performs aggressively. It remains a favorite among enthusiasts who value a blend of Scandinavian design and Nordic engineering. The car offers a comfortable ride quality that distinguishes it from sharper, more rigid German rivals, making it a versatile choice for both commuting and weekend driving. While maintenance costs for a performance vehicle can be a consideration, the availability of premium aftermarket fluids like AMSOIL allows owners to keep their S60R running like new for a fraction of the cost of traditional dealer maintenance, ensuring that this high-performance Swedish sedan continues to deliver reliable and spirited driving experiences for years to come.