I have a 98 v70xc with almost 90k miles and the suspension (shocks, struts, springs?) feels pretty worn.
Also, I have read about the spring seats issue and I think I have some of that going on in my car. For instance, if were to do a u-turn on a street and drive over the curb with my right front wheel i get a *crunk* sound as the wheel goes over the curb.???
I am interested in getting this car to handle better. Right now I'd have to say the ride is anything but supple or sporty. The suspension doesn't seem to absorb anything anymore. Every bump makes it way to the car as a thump.
Any advice?

The engine and the rest of the car are still in very good shape and I don't have any plans to get rid of the car anytime soon....

 

You can check the spring seats in about 5 minutes. Open the hood and get a 13/16 wrench or socket.Then try to turn the nut on the top of the strut if it turns freely it is bad. If it feels rubbery then it is good.

The XC's seems to have a rougher ride than the normal V70's.

Here is a couple of pics of what the spring seats look like.

[IMG]local://upfiles/853/8FA39FBDD022419DB9BFCA09AE960186.jpg[/IMG]

[IMG]local://upfiles/853/4324E75E807B47F2BA8E293056813F0B.jpg[/IMG]

 

so do you have any experience with aftermarket or OEM replacement?
I'm wondering if it will be worth the cost? More smiles per miles.

I'll check the mounts this evening or at lunch... thanks for the info!

 

I really haven't messed with the aftermarket but I hear they are good to go with.

I only work with the OEM parts most of the time.

 

I'd check the end links too. Don't forget to get an alignment after you put in the new shocks and spring seats.