I just learned that I have a failed ball joint on the passenger front end of my '98 V70 AWD. Mechanic is quoting about $400, and I just got hit with a tax bill. Is this a DIY job for someone with moderate skills? (I can do oil changes, replace brake shoes and rotors, and have figured out a PNP switch replacement with help from a video.)

Thanks

Sure you can do it, ball joints cost $35 to $75..
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2003, V70:2.4T,110.350 k,mi. ,, 1985, 245:Ti, 275k mi.sold@250.00k... 1974, 145, 230k mi..sold @260K

No, on the 98 the ball joint is incorporated into the control arm so it costs a lot more than $35-75. At FCP it is $115 for something decent like Lemforder. OEM is more but probably worth it... :)

https://www.fcpeuro.com/Volvo-parts/V70/Suspension?year=1998&e=153&m=219&page=1

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Current - 95 855 GLT Sportwagon 255k, Formerly - 90 244 DL 300k

Mr Walker , thanks for the info, I was thinking of my 2003 P-2 ,,,
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2003, V70:2.4T,110.350 k,mi. ,, 1985, 245:Ti, 275k mi.sold@250.00k... 1974, 145, 230k mi..sold @260K

Hey thanks, John. I learned something too. I didn't know the P2's had separate ball joints.

I think that except for the 93 850's and maybe some 94's, all the P1 cars have integrated ball joints/control arms.

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Current - 95 855 GLT Sportwagon 255k, Formerly - 90 244 DL 300k

You will need a jack stand to hold the car up. A good jack to raise the control arm to the horizontal position prior to tightening up the frame bolts (not like Robert who put the jack stand under the control arm, no-no).

Give yourself 2 hours for the one hour job, first time requires extra time to pop the ball joint loose, and you will not be using air hammer tools. A two foot breaker bar is a good idea.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5D06PL0CN04
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My back feels better when I sit in a Volvo seat