First time Volvo owner here.
We recently got into this 2007 c30 t5 from a family friend, and my mechanic has diagnosed it with a pair of CV axle failures.

After doing some research I've identified a few things. First off, Volvo manufactures these axles and sells them for a premium, like 800$ per side.

I realize rockauto and other online sources are littered with cheap and economy options, but I'd really love to not have to do these again anytime soon.

As it appears GKN is the only reliable aftermarket option, and appears as if they're complete new assemblies vs Volvo rebuilt. They're also listed at basically 870$ for the pair, significantly cheaper that OEM Volvo.

I am planning to lower the car with springs sometime in the coming future, so is going with brand new, potentially higher than OEM standard axles worth the investment? Or shall we play it safe with OEM Volvo axles.

​​Any input on the subject is appreciated 👍
Cheers from Canada!



Our 2007 c30 t5

 

What's wrong with your axles? A common failure is you get vibrations when accelerating. That is usually wear in the right axle and is solved by replacing the right axle only.

Gkn I believe is the OEM manufacturer for (some) Volvo axles, and I've recommended and sold those to customers many times. Many of the cheap ~$100 axles are worse than the old axles you are replacing!

Lowering your car. - I have replaced many broken oil pans in the cars with that type of sub-frame (svc30,40,70) possibly because there is no subframe or anything in front of your oil pan to be hit first.

 

Thanks for the reply hoonk,
It started off with the classic clicking under low speed turning, then escaladed into a random pop/clunk once in a while. Appears to be inner boot on drivers and outer on passenger. In my area I looked for a rebuilding service but everyone points at just replacing them. It's a disposable world we live in now unfortunately.

Yes I believe you're correct about GKN being a manufacturer for the axles. I am likely going to go this route. I also got a quote from a different shop on PDL (professional driveline) axles, however after some research they appear to be another re branding company.

When I say lower I mean likely an inch or less. I used to own excessively low cars, but on the c30 just looking to make it a bit more aggresive. I definitely do not want to kiss the curbs with my pan, and thanks for the heads up that it's the first place to see rubble.

Cheers for the reply!