I've noted a couple of posts lately referencing link rod problems. Could anyone kindly explain what the link rods are? (do they link subframe to sway bars??), if they fail often, and what would be the symptoms of failure? also are they difficult to change/repair?

db

my '94 850 links failed at about 90 k miles and again at about 180k miles. This sounded like a weak design to me, until I read how much more quickly they seem to fail on V70's. Shame on Volvo for not improving these, or at least keeping them as per the 850 material. I hate to see this as it is one more sign that I should keep my 850 and not buy a V70 ('97-'00 i mean)Hope the new V70 is back on track for long term reliabilty.

c.

If you mean sway bar links, its a common occurance now on ALL '98 on up Volvos (every model and STILL!!!).

It causes a clunking noise over bumps and also heard steering slightly side to side.

Unfortunately, Volvo still hasn't really cured the problem as the replacement parts are just as bad as the originals. You'll be replacing them often unless the aftermarket devises a better replacement someday.

The older '93-'97 850s weren't nearly as problematic so I think Volvo found a cheaper vender.

If you remove a front wheel, you will find a thin metal rod that joins the strut to the anti-roll bar. At each end is a ball joint with a rubber bushing. When these fail, you will notice play in the wheel/steering, and some noise.

It's an inexpensive rubber-compound grommet on the front sway bar/link rod ends. They soften up at around 70K miles, and in my case, the cornering/steering up front just got spongy. You can fix them yourself in a few minutes. I had my indy Volvo tech fix them during routine maintenance - he didn't even charge me for it.

David M

98 S70T5SE