Hi all. I've searched this forum, and I need a second opinion on my '98 S70 NA, 109,000 miles. It still has the OEM struts and shocks, and I think they are pretty much shot. When I drive over potholes, bumps, etc., I think I'm going to lose my teeth. I can feel the car skip over potholes sometimes.
We have been using an independent mechanic for a few years to do the periodic maintenance (I know, I'm lazy) and when I asked him to check the noises up front and if I needed new struts, he said they were OK and usually can go to 150,000 miles before replacement. He replaced the sway bar end links, and now after I have this forum I feel like an idiot, as they seem easy enough to replace. He did replace one spring seat, but said everything else was fine.

Now I am ready to replace the struts, shocks and all parts all around, and my wife (this used to be her car, she just turned up the radio to drown the noise) thinks I'm nuts and the mechanic is right (and we can save $700).

What I need to know is - are these struts likely bad? They do pass the bounce test. I only started driving this car again, as my wife has the newer car. I'd like this car to ride and handle again like a Volvo.

Thanks.

Bill
Chesapeake, VA

 

If you bounce it and it bounces again they are weak. If it just comes up and stops they are still good.

 

Thanks Tech. I guess I believe they are worn, just wanted to see if anyone else had a similar experience. Our indy mechanic says they should last to 150,000 miles.

Bill