I read this forum and everything I could find on this roar noise and made up my mind it was the front wheel bearing - the right one. The roar starts at about 40 mph and increases with speed. I replaced the right one and noticed only a slight improvement so I replaced the left one. $500+ later I still have roar. Could it be in the driveshaft? Or am I missing the thing altogether? I would like to see this car at its full potential again but I can't go on buying $250+ parts on guesses.

 

Found a quiet moment on the road and it looks (sounds) like the back bearings are the cause now. I'm still looking for help if I can get it though!

 

We had to replace the rear bearings on our 04 xc90. It was exactly what you mentioned. A very noticeable roaring sound that does not go away. The higher the speed the better the roar. We took it to the dealership and had the rear bearings replaced. It came to 1500.00. That also included a changed park brake shoe(??) and a regular service so I think that the bearings were around 1000.00 to have replaced.
I hear you about wanting the car to be back at top performance again, I think mine is going to have to have the whole front end replaced in order for that to happen. I tell you, if I didn't love this car so much...

so yeah, my vote would be for the rear bearings based on what you described.

good luck.

 

Thanks luvmyxc90. It's a great car. I did the front bearings myself and it cost me $520 for the parts. The dealer's estimate was $900. I'm sure I'll do the back ones myself also but I really appreciate the heads-up about the brake shoe. Thanks again and good luck with yours!

 

Problem solved. Dealer charged me $165 @ for the rear bearing hubs and it took me 3 hours to do them. Now at 90K miles with all 4 bearings and rotors replaced it feels, sounds, andrides like a brand new car. Happy at last!

 

Thats great, I wish I could get some of this stuff done by my husband... unfortunately he is still under the spell that the dealer puts on you at first making you think it all has to be done by them.