2003 S60 2.4T w/. 70k mi.: I have had a knocking/rattle coming from the right front wheel area for a while. It makes the most noise when I go over bumps at low speeds. Without mentioning it to the dealer they told me I needed new inner tie rods and new right sway bar link. I took it to a repair shop I've used in the past for inspection and they say the tie rods are fine but the steering rack is bad, which will need to be replaced in the near future. I don't know who to believe. Unfortunately, I'm not a very trusting person so I feel like I'm being taken. Do these symptoms sound like they would be cause by any or all of the diagnosed problems to anyone? Any insight would be greatly appreciated.

 

Just a slight bit of info please.

Did they say the rack is leaking?
Why did they say you need a rack?

The noise could be caused by 2 common problems. The sway var links are one. The upper spring seat is the other. If you own or can borrow a 13/16 Wrench you can check the spring seat your self.

 

They didn't say the rack is leaking. From his explanation it sounded like the steering column was lose where it meets the rack(?). I don't even know if that makes sense since I don't know a whole lot about steering mechanics. Don't know if it matters but I've never noticed any actual steering problems with the car, just this rattle/knock from the right front. I wouldn't think the steering rack would cause noise on one side of the car.

Also, I forgot to mention that I had it at another volvo dealer and they told me I needed new control arm bushings. So basically, three different places have all recommended the replacement of different parts. This is why I feel like I'm being taken. Are suspension/steering problems that hard to diagnose that everyone has a different opinion? Or are S60s just piecies of junk?

I'm pretty sure the tie rods are ok. The one mechanic (non-dealer) did inspect them in front of me and there was no lateral movement of the wheels when it was on the lift. Beyond that I'm at a loss.

If you'd let me know how to check the spring seat I'll give it a shot. Thanks for your help.

 

Where you see the nut under the hood for the strut. Try turning it with a 13/16 wrench. If the nut turns the spring seat is bad. If it feels rubbery it is good. It will take you about 5 min. to check it.