I just purchases a 2007 C70 and the dealer said they replaced the axles with I assume standard product, NOT OEM, I took it to my mechanic and they make a click sound when we shift the car into gears, they said they are binding up thus causing a shimmy between 10-20mph then it stops??? He said they need to be OEM, Is that the case?

 

usually the choice for axles are genuine volvo (expensive- ie 500-600 per) which are factory new and guaranteed to fit or you can find aftermarket which may be from the same supplier to volvo (ie "OEM"). The third option is rebuilt axles. Usually this is a factory axle to begin with that has had new bearings installed in the CV joints. The clicking noise suggest the CV joint is not right and the axle needs to be replaced again or the part was inproperly installed or an incorrect fit.

 

thanks for the info, just frustrated since i just purchased the car..... est $1400 for two new OEM front axles.. ARGH, I need the shimmy to STOP....

 

Frankly, that's nonsense. You don't have to get OEM drive axles to get good parts. I've used these new ones without issue. I do not used rebuilt axles since some are not as rebuilt as others.

This is the brand that I typically buy:

https://www.rockauto.com/en/moreinfo...434418&jsn=369

 

I've seen many aftermarket axles come apart. I don't know what brands because I wasn't the one who installed them.

 

After 20 years of selling Volvos, I've never seen an aftermarket axle "come apart".

 

I've seen at least three aftermarket passenger side axles come apart from the support bearing within just the last 18 months. And more beyond that.

 

I guess that is depends upon your perspective. As a dealer, I buy only clean well conditioned vehicles that might need some service. I've changed OEM drive axles but have never had failures.

If I was bringing in outside work, I might witness what you are describing.