Segment:
Compact premium hatchback.
Unique Selling Proposition:
Distinctive coupe-like styling with hatchback practicality, Volvo's renowned safety reputation, and Scandinavian design aesthetics.
Key Competitors:
Volkswagen Golf, Audi A3, BMW 1 Series, Mini Cooper.
Design:
Iconic glass tailgate, distinctive front fascia, compact dimensions.
Safety:
Volvo's comprehensive safety suite, including advanced airbag systems, WHIPS (Whiplash Protection System), and optional driver assistance features.
Interior:
Premium materials, ergonomic design, comfortable seating, and user-friendly infotainment system.
Primary Coverage:
Vehicle operation, maintenance, and safety for the 2012 Volvo C30.
Content Areas:
Introduction, Safety, Instruments & Controls, Comfort & Convenience, Operation Tips, Appearance Care, Unexpected Situations, Technical Information, Warranty & Customer Relations, Entertainment Systems, Climate Controls, Lights, Driver Controls, Locks & Security, Seating & Restraints, Driving, Customer Assistance, Safety Defect Reporting (US), Cleaning, Engine Compartment, Engine Oil, Battery, Fuel Information, Air Filter, Part Numbers, Refill Capacities, Lubricant Specifications, Accessories, Service Information & Specifications, Maintenance Information & Specifications.
Estimated Pages:
N/A (Digital Download)
Manual Type:
Owner's Manual
Powertrain:
Engine operation, fuel system, lubrication, cooling, emissions, exhaust.
Chassis:
Braking system, steering system, suspension system.
Electrical:
Lighting systems (headlights, taillights, interior), battery, charging system, fuses, electrical components.
Interior Features:
Climate control, infotainment system, power accessories, seats, safety restraints, interior lighting, locks and security.
Driver Interface:
Instruments, gauges, warning lights, driver controls, steering wheel functions.
Routine Maintenance:
Checking and topping up fluids (oil, coolant, brake fluid, windshield washer fluid), tire pressure checks, basic cleaning.
Operation:
Starting and stopping the engine, shifting gears, using climate control, operating infotainment system, parking.
Safety Features:
Understanding airbags, seat belts, child seat installation, and specific safety systems.
Troubleshooting Basic:
Identifying and responding to warning lights and messages, minor issues.
Appearance Care:
Exterior cleaning and polishing, interior cleaning.
Depth:
Covers fundamental owner-level operations, maintenance, and understanding of vehicle features. Does not include detailed diagnostic procedures or complete repair instructions found in a service manual.
Engine Code Typical:
B5254FS (2.5L Turbocharged Inline-5)
Engine Displacement:
2.5 Liters (2520 cc)
Engine Configuration:
Inline-5 Cylinder
Horsepower:
Approx. 224 hp @ 5000 rpm (for T5 variant)
Torque:
Approx. 236 lb-ft @ 1500 rpm (for T5 variant)
Fuel Delivery:
Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended)
Engine Oil Type:
Fully Synthetic SAE 0W-30 (Volvo VCC 952003)
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 6.1 US Quarts (5.8 Liters)
Air Filter Part Number Example:
Volvo 31297777 (Check specific VIN for exact fitment)
Transmission Type:
6-speed Geartronic™ Automatic Transmission
Transmission Type:
6-speed Manual Transmission
Geartronic Functionality:
Allows manual selection of gears for a more engaging driving experience.
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Volvo AW-1 (or equivalent specification)
Length:
Approx. 167.2 inches (4247 mm)
Width:
Approx. 70.9 inches (1801 mm)
Height:
Approx. 57.0 inches (1448 mm)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 103.2 inches (2621 mm)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 3200 - 3400 lbs (1451 - 1542 kg) depending on configuration
Cargo Volume Rear Seats Up:
Approx. 12.4 cu ft (351 Liters)
Cargo Volume Rear Seats Folded:
Approx. 21.8 cu ft (617 Liters)
IIHS Top Safety Pick:
Yes (Generally rated well by IIHS for its model year)
NHTSA Overall Safety Rating:
5-Star (typically for frontal and side crash tests)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System.
Esc:
Standard Electronic Stability Control (ESC).
Traction Control:
Standard Traction Control System (TCS).
Airbags:
Front airbags, side airbags, curtain airbags.
Whips:
Standard Whiplash Protection System (WHIPS) in front seats.
Seat Belts:
Three-point seat belts with pretensioners and load limiters for all seating positions.
Child Safety:
ISOFIX (LATCH) mounting points for child safety seats.
Audio System:
Volvo's high-performance audio systems, including optional premium sound by Harman Kardon.
Connectivity:
Bluetooth for hands-free calling and audio streaming, USB input, auxiliary audio input.
Navigation:
Optional factory-integrated navigation system.
Optional Features:
Blind Spot Information System (BLIS), Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) was less common on the C30 but available on some P1 platform Volvos.
Climate System:
Automatic Climate Control (ECC - Electronic Climate Control) with dual-zone temperature settings.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 10,000 miles (16,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first (under normal driving conditions).
Air Filter Replacement:
Recommended every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or as needed based on driving conditions.
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Recommended every 12,000 miles (20,000 km) or 12 months.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Approximately every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) for standard plugs, higher for iridium plugs.
Timing Belt Replacement:
Not applicable, the 2.5L T5 engine uses a timing chain.
Coolant Type:
Volvo Long Life Coolant (G48 or equivalent specification), typically a blue/green color.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Power Steering Fluid:
Refer to manual, typically a specific Volvo hydraulic fluid.
Common Problems:
Possible issues include minor electrical gremlins, wear on suspension components, and potential turbocharger issues on high-mileage vehicles. Some owners report occasional issues with the power tailgate actuator.
Volvo Safety Philosophy:
Volvo has a long-standing reputation for prioritizing safety, pioneering many automotive safety innovations.
C30 Introduction:
The Volvo C30 was introduced for the 2007 model year as a stylish, compact three-door hatchback based on Volvo's P1 platform.
2012 Model Year Updates:
The 2012 model year saw minor updates, including revised styling elements and potentially updated infotainment options, but retained the core design and powertrain offerings.
Production Period:
2006-2013
Manufacturing Plant:
Ghent, Belgium.
