Just bought this 2004XC in aug. Finding it hard to believe oil changes at 12000 KM especially the first, should I change more often? Its going to take 7 months to rack that up, and what about synthetic oil Thanks Ben

I would do a change whenever you feel the need. Any new car that I buy gets a change at 500 miles and then at 1000 to clear out the 'bits' then I go between 3000 and 7500 with synthetic, No longer than 5 months.

Believe it or not, I go to my local WalMart - you can get a full synthetic change with lube for $33. The work bay has a huge window and I watch them like a hawk but I heve never had a problem and take all three of my vehicles there.

Steve

Ben: I change my oil every 5-6 thousand kilometers. I use Castrol GTX up to 12,000 kms then switch to Castrol Syntec synthetic. Regardless of the interval, change your oil at least twice a year. I changed mine yesterday on my XC70 with 20,000 km, going to a 5W-30 Castrol Syntec for winter driving in Canada. In case you need the change procedure, I've documented it on my web site:
http://cvolvo.com/Central/Repair/B5254T.html
If you do the job yourself, which I recommend, I'd advise you to buy the filters and aluminum sealing ring from your dealer and keep your invoice.
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Cam a.k.a. CVOLVO.COM

Hey Cam Thanks for the info Just getting back to you now [been on a trip]I "will" have to change my own oil as I am outin the middle of the Bay of Fundy. Grand Manan and the how to is a big help. Can't get 5W-30 out here so I think 10-30 should be ok she's at 7000 kms so I think I'II change it when the filter comes in the mail Thanks again Ben

The newer cars are designed to go farther between changes like this. I would feel happy and lucky. Synthetic would be a good way to go.