Just purchased a 2002 S80 w/88,000 miles. Had it checked out by an independent shop before purchasing. Everything checked out...Anyway, when the car is first started and I put it in reverse and begin to back up, there is sometimes a loud clunk coming from the right rear. The first time it happened, I actually stopped and got out thinking I might have hit something in the garage. This is infrequent, but sounds serious. Any suggestions?

 

Try pulling the wheel and rotor and checking the parking brake shoes.

 

also sway bar links go bad ..

 

Now that you mention the parking brake, I think the last time this happened Idid have the brake set. Maybe the pads didn't release when I took the brake off...I'll check into it and the sway bars. Thanks for the advice!!