Is it necessary to replace the lower valance (spoiler)? The original lower valance disappeared under suspicious circumstances while being towed to a mechanic's shop last week (on the vehicle before being towed, off the vehicle after). Therefore, it really sticks in my craw to replace the part. Of course the mechanic suggested that I replace it, sighting the impending problems with my air conditioning and engine cooling if I don't (I do live in the South). Due to the missing valance incident, I am not inclined to trust nor give any more money to him. Any good advice will be appreciated.

They should replace it as a matter of course. They clearly knocked it off during the tow. Take them to small claims court if they refuse.

Towing companies are bad for damaging cars during the tow.

Yes, it should be replaced. It sure sounds similar to the time that I stopped to get gas near Tipton GA at 3am ,and had the attendant inform me that I was missing my gas cap. But lo and behold he just happened to have one in stock. An exact match for a '65 Austin-Healy, and in the same OEM dark blue color! What luck! And only $20. What a steal.

The valence, or spoiler holds the air guide on. This air guide helps keep the rad and condenser cool by streaming air through it to the rad. Mine is in rough shape, but I have left it onfor this reason. They are very hard to find used, and new are about $350. Good luck.

I have another question...It may be the air guide that was lost...Is the air guide the piece below the valance? Could you please distinguish between the two? Also, should I drive any long distances without it? I appreciate your help.

Thanks, Jennifer
Volvo `96 960 126K, Volvo 240 1992 208k (sick with electrical problems, though)

The air dam is not that expensive from www.borton.com. It is held by eight or so spring clips along the edges and a couple of screws. Painting of course would be extra, if needed.

Dear jenniferpage,

Good p.m. and may this find you well. According to the Volvo Tech Manual Body Fittings, 700/900, 1982-, the valance is the piece that is mounted under the bumper. The bumper is the black plasticized rubber piece, that is attached to the flat plates, at the end of the bumper shock absorbers. The bumper is immediately below the grill, the valance is attached to the underside of the bumper, using self-tapping screws.

Attached to the valance, there is a third piece - no name given in the manual - which appears to be the "air guide".

My guess is that you can get these parts at a salvage yard. Any car not in a front-end collision should have them. If you have access to a yard that allows you to remove the parts yourself - and you're minded to do that - let me know, and I'll set forth a step-by-step process.

I had to remove the bumper from my 940, as the mounting bracket on one side had separated from the bumper body.

My best guess is that you can drive as you need to, but watch the temp gauge. If it dwells above its normal resting place, try to find a way to let the engine cool. My guess is that until the heart of the summer, you've not too much to worry about, unless your towing a trailer.

Hope this helps.

Yours faithfully,

spook

Thank you Spook. The clarification was extremely helpful. The air guide was lost, not the valance. I will check the Volvo salvage yard in Atlanta soon...and thank goodness I don't have any trailers in tow!

Best regards,

Jennifer

VoluParts, no doubt. A great Volvo salvage place, at least it was 15-20 years ago.
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John Shatzer, '97 V90 @ 105K