Hi to all,

Firstly thanks for a great informative forum. I have a couple of questions regarding my volvo (I've only had for two weeks so far).

1. I had the oil topped up and now I get an oil smell in the car. I check for spillage bt cant find any.

2. There is a ticking sound when the car is started from cold but goes away once the car is warm. It sounds like its coming from the exhaust manifold.

3. Is there any way to safely turn up the boost without making any engine mods and if so what is the max you can boost without killing the engine.

4. I had the upgraded software installed at Auto Baltic Volvo here in South Africa and the car now pushes out 202hp or 156kw. Is torque steer normal under quick acceleration or is there something wrong with the car.

Your input will be much appreciated.

Marc

I have the same ticking problem on my 04 1.9T S40. I also think it is the exhaust manifold leaking. I read about a few problems where the manifold bolts get loose and cause a leak. I didn't do anything to mine yet because it only ticks for less than a minute. If it gets worse I might try tightening them up.

Your oil smell might be overfilling of the oil. Double check the oil and make sure it wasn't overfilled.

I would say a small amount of torque steer is normal for most front drive cars. Different tires can change the torque steer issue. Mine seems to do it more with my performance tires compared to the all seasons. If I launch from a red light quick it also pulls over to the right.

ticking sound is usually normal. an exhaust leak is just that, a leak. do you smell exhaust? if not, don't worry. since you had the upgrade, is that amount of hp not enough? fooling around with the stock settings and not doing any mods will just make the turbo last less than normal. save up money and do it correctly. did you upgrade your wires and plugs? a new filter, pref a performance one? torque steer is the bane of all front wheel performance cars. it can be from a little to a huge amount. i've seen when owners have installed wider tires in front to keep the car from torque steer. of course, ride quality has dropped. try easing from a stop. no need to redline all the time. of course, it is more fun that way.

Morning Guys,

Thank you for the info, uch appreciated. I have noticed with the leak at the manifold a decrease in power but not by much. I cannot smell the exhause but I am concerned that it might burn a valve or something.

Greek mason what plugs would you suggest and which plug leads should i get. As far as a performance filter goes I think i will get a K&N.

Thanks

ngk irridium plugs. and 8mm wire set. go to ipd.com and get their upgraded kit for the rotor and cap. good luck. keep us posted. and k & n is the way to go. don't forget the heat shield to keep the heat from the filter.

Hi Greekmason,

Thanks for the advice. I have one last question. What do I do with the airflow meter. Do i just leave it?

yes, it's needed.