My 2001 S40 with 133K will need new struts soon. I want a smooth ride, not stiff. I have, in the past, used Bilsteins, Koni's, etc. in my 'sports cars', and the result were tight, stiff cars which would rattle your teeth. This is a sedan, family car...what do you suggest?
I also need rotors...there seems to be a ton of brands out there. Suggestions?
I see that FCP and IPD offer a full range of options, any feedback?

 

Its just a sedan for you pick anything you want will be OK for you.

 

For front struts I went with KYB from TireRack.com. The price was very nice and the ride was similar to stock. They've been working well for over a year now.

For rotors I went with plain Brembo replacements (not drilled or slotted). These rotors behaved strangely when first installed causing a vibration under braking. The fix was hand-sanding them in a circular pattern to give a non-directional surface. They've since performed well.

For pads I bought Wearever Ceramic pads from Advance Auto. When cold these pads hardly work. Backing out of the garage on a cold morning is an exercise in how hard can you push the brake pedal. The wife complained so much I bought standard semi-metallic pads to replace them.

Hope this helps a little.

 

Koni and Bilsteins can be stiff. KYB tend to be a little stiffer than the stock shocks and struts as they increase the gas pressure to compensate for suspension wear but they are still good. The factory shocks and struts on my '02 S40 were stamped "Monroe" though I was never sure that this was really Monroe. However, they were crappy enough to be Monroe. I put Koni Sports, set them almost completely soft, on that car and loved it but I like a sportier feel. I have heard very good things about the Koni FSD but they are pricey. Sachs (a Volvo OEM supplier) may also be a good alternative and should provide a nice ride. Regardless, with that many miles, if they are original, your shock/struts are likely shot and anything would be a big improvement.

On my '02 S40, I used Textar pads, which is one of the companies that makes the Volvo branded pads for that car and was pleased except for the dust. I have since been using Hawk HPS pads on my V50 and am very pleased in every way.

Brembo plain rotors are very good as are Zimmerman. You won't go wrong with either.

Stan