Yep....I agree with everyone who says don't worry...my '87 needed a new gasket, and it got me to and from 2 4 hour trips, without losing a significant amt. of oil, but it did look like it had a pretty good leak.

Took it to where my dad got his serviced (in sc, sorry) they changed flame trap and oil filler cap seal, for the cost of the parts...

Good luck

I used to live in Memphis and ALWAYS used Swedish Solution- They specialize in Volvo and Saab. Did a great job for us every time. (mentioned in previous message) I do NOT suggest Pat Patterson, a family member had some serious trouble with them.

These people have a good reputation in Memphis; Marvin Short 901-795-0570

Swedish Solution 901-387-0951 - Pat Patterson Volvo 901-373-3000

It shouldn't disable the car. Probably a semi-clogged flame trap and that oil cap gasket gets hard after about 2 years of service. Volvo four cylinders burp oil like an infant burps milk. Just as messy too; the oil drips straight down the valve cover onto the exhaust manifold where it smokes like the dickens. Tell her to check the oil level at fillups and get the flame trap and oil cap seal fixed on her destination (about $3 total, in parts).

This shouldn't ruin a road trip...

Bob Mohr

1990 745 B230F 122K

1992 245 B230F 180K

I'm in L.A and can't help with your primary question.

But, I wouldn't be shocked if the oil cap seal was dried out and cracked, further, you probably checked the oil before left, or they did. An already grungy seal may have just cracked.

The part is about $1.00 from Volvo, or in a pinch, one could be fabricated from sheet stock.

Also possible is the flame trap may be plugged. Don't know if the daughter is up for digging into that and I also wouldn't let the local hayseed garage mess with it either. Someone who knows the 240 could have it serviced in 3 minutes. Usually though, a plugged trap will affect seals lower in the engine first, so check the oil cap.