I have a 2000 S40 and found a set of almost new 2001 front S40 strut assemblies on Craigslist for $50 each. I put these on my 2000 S40, and now the front end is making all kinds of noise. Creaking knocking, etc.

I've searched and read all kinds of info about upgrading 2000 struts to 2001 and later using a rebuild kit, and figured why not just buy a good used set of complete assemblies from a 2001 and install those? I think I found the answer.......

The major difference I noticed was the sway bar link mounts are higher on the later struts, where the 2000 sway bar link mount is closer to the knuckle. I did not install 2001 series sway bar links, so could this be part of my problem or should I back off and find a set of appropriate 2000 struts to install?

Any help would be appreciated. This is my first Volvo.

 

Along that same vein, I plan on updating my pre-05/2000 S40 with the new struts and strut mounts this summer as a project for a sunny day. Does anyone know if the springs must be replaced as well, or if the stock 05/2000 ones will do? The rebuild kits come with upper spring seats, but I'm unsure if those will accomodate pre-05/2000 autos. Has anyone had any experience with these earlier S40s?

 

Yeah they changed a lot of suspension parts between those years. You should just find the struts for the year and skip the trouble.

 

On my 2000 V40 the upgrade kits worked fine with the original springs.

 

Great, awesome - thanks for the reply!