OK, here is my dilemma: Front end "clunking" noise is becoming worse when going over bumps, speed bumps, driveway curbs, etc. Take car (54K miles) to my independent Volvo shop (good place) and have them look at it. I suspect the strut rod bushings, but they aren't sure and say they "look" fine. They drove the car and stopped it suddenly a few times and there was noticable wheel movement when braking hard. They tightened up a few things and sprayed lubricant on the front end bushings. Voila! The clunking is gone for the time being.

I like these guys at this indy shop a lot, but they always leave enough doubt in my mind as to not go ahead and replace the bushings. Should I go ahead and have all front end bushings replaced? They also said that the strut rod bushings don't cause a "clunk" when bad. Is this true?

Your help is greatly appreciated!