Now that I'm done with the front suspension. On to the rear..

On the basis that suspensions on the S80 worn out quickly. What would I be looking for in term of rear suspension parts, as compare to front problem like strut bushing, arm control bushings.. and so on.. The simple question isWhat are known rear suspension issues? 2000 S80.

Another question: when I search online for rear shocks, there are self-leveling and non-leveling shocks. What does it mean exactly? Is it something I must check to see if my original is or not and replace accordingly? Or is it just an after market option to have?

Why I ask these questions? I have a feeling the right rear suspension is having issue. Quite noisy on bumpy roads. Also, when I push down on the rear, I can hear a sqeaking noise as if something is rubbing thin metal. However, I don't think the rear shocks are bad because the rear doesn't bounce like bad shocks at all.

I noticed there was a big screw, what looks like to hold the rear axle frame to the body. I tighten that screw a little more, but didn't solve any issue. Is there some sort of bushing or o-rings for that as to the o-rings for the front subframe?

 

The only thing in the rear that wears out quickly is the sway bar links.
You don't want to mess with anything else anyway.(speak from experience)

The shocks might be worn out and aren't that bad to replace.
You will have to get the part # off the old ones to know if they are self leveling or not.

Are you getting a clunk noise out of the back?
If so then I will guess the sway bar links are bad.

 

Yes, a clunk noise or a rough noise on the right rear suspension.
I'll check all the links this weekend.

 

1) How can you tell if the sway bar links are bad? From visual inspection, they looked fine. The rubber bubble (not sure what you call it) is still good, no leak.

2) Can I replace the rear sway bar bushing (not the link) seperately or the whole sway bar must be replace?

3) Rear shocks: Does it matter if the original is self-leveling or not? Wouldn't it be better to replace with self-leveling shocks anyway?

 

1. If pull on the sway bar and hear a click on the side you are pulling on it is bad.

2.Not really sure never had to replace them. They never go bad.
I think the sway bar might have to come out and I think it is a Pita to get out.

3.The springs are different for the leveling and non shocks.

 

Thanks again Tech!

On the Rear shock: From the look of it, seems like I can take it out downward. However, because I will be working on it from home and the car probably won't be lifted that high. Can it come out upward into the trunk? Or it must be removed downward toward the ground?

 

I believe it can only come out the bottom.