I'm looking at buying a 2001 S80 T6 with 64k miles for 15k.

The engine feels great and runs smoothly on the road, but when I open the hood, I definitely here the valves clattering. Sounds similar to a diesel engine, but not as loud.

Also, no matter what speed I am traveling, I hear what sounds to be bad front bearings. Like a droaning noise. Not your typical road noise. But could be. Sounds the same when going straight or turning.

Are these two issues normal?

I've had a 1984 244 (250k) in the past and am trading in a Mercedes 1990 300TE (255k) so this type of car is new to me. I'm hoping it will last as long as these cars.

Thanks!

 

well i know they have had some kind of front berring recall of some sort. But i have never heard od the valve clatter. i have a 2000 s80 t6 with 115000 on it and man do i love it!!

 

I've got a 2000 S80 (non-turbo) and haven't noticed any of the issues you've described. "Tech" will be able to definatively answer your valve noise questions.

 

Some of the engines have Manual Lifter and some have hydrolic lifters.
Also the oil pan o-rings migth be bad causing low oil pressure and the tapping.

Front bearings are also known to go bad.

 

Thanks all for your help so far. I will make sure they check out the bearings and the oil pressure

Would mechanical or hydraulic lifters cause more noise? According to the VIN it has the B6284T engine.

 

Mechanical will make noise usuall when the car has alot of miles and needs them adjusted (Hopefully you don't have mechanical. Will cost about $2000.00 to have them adjusted)

The hydrolic will make noise if the oil pressure is low at all.

 

might be the gas what octane are you useing? should use 93 or at least 91 could be knock sensor