It looks like you’ve got rust in the system- I’m not sure, but it might be indicative of a leak in the system somewhere, which would make sense if you’re having to top it off regularly. Years ago, I had a mid-90’s Ford Contour that had coolant that looked like that. I think the radiator was rusting, but the head gasket blew so I never ended up dealing with the coolant at that point.

 

I've seen a Volvo TJ that probably covers your car stating that color is not a good indicator of the condition of the coolant. I did a quick search but I can't find the TJ. If I recall the TJ says not to change coolant based only on a change in color. I think the dye used in the genuine Volvo coolant was changed sometime in 2016-17 to something that retains its color over time.

Last summer the coolant in my 2016 S60 looked something like what is shown in the OP's photo, as opposed to the blue color I saw when the car was new. I changed it using genuine Volvo coolant (green/teal color) and the color has remained constant ever since.

I'd recommend changing it using genuine Volvo coolant. If you're doing the work yourself the Volvo coolant doesn't cost much more than generic brands. Just be sure you get all of the air out of the system when you change it.

 

Thanks for the reply. I sent it to my friend who said it looks like oil has leaked into the coolant, possibly an issue with the head gasket and said I probably shouldnt drive it and take it to get looked at immediately.

 

I’d lean more towards a leak in the oil cooler.
Generally, Coolant in oil = head gasket
Exhaust gases in coolant = head gasket
Oil in coolant = bad oil cooler

 

HG seems unlikely. Acustrip glycol content strips to check for coolant in oil, or if its visibly milky. Cooling system pressure test to see if there's a leak. Kinda just looks like it's been topped off with water/universal one too many times, or it's likely old enough to have lost its corrosion inhibitors, getting you that color and sediment.

 

Thanks everyone for the replies. Everywhere around me is booked solid until the new year but I was able to get an appointment at my parents mechanic which is 40 miles from me. I have roadside assistance, should I just get it towed or am I safe to drive it?

 

It screams head gasket to me. I'd avoid driving it until you can get it in somewhere.