V60 Shock Absorbers - When did you replace ?

[Toprivetguns]

Just curious to see when and why people may of replaced their shock absorbers. Also have they chosen OEM or other eg Bilstein.

[Kev0607]

Originally Posted by Toprivetguns

Just curious to see when and why people may of replaced their shock absorbers. Also have they chosen OEM or other eg Bilstein.

Without stating the obvious, you replace them when the ride becomes uncomfortable, as in the car will be crashing over bumps and/or you see fluid leaking from the shock absorber. The reason why you'd replace them is for this very reason.

I find genuine offers the right ride comfort for the car. There's good aftermarkets out there, like Bilstein or KYB for example, but they won't offer the same comfort. Some people like a stiffer suspension though, so aftermarket may suit them better.

[Deck1ng]

Have a look on “AUTODOC”, prices range from £40 - £150 per unit, how you compare ride comfort I’ve no idea with about 15 choices of manufacturer I’d say it’s a bit of a gamble, where by buyingOEM you should get like for like.

[Kev0607]

I believe "genuine" Volvo shock absorbers that you'd buy from a dealership parts department are made by Sachs with a Volvo badge on them.

I've replaced shock absorbers on a V70. They had Sachs product codes on them & they looked identical to the Sachs ones I viewed online (well, technically they were the same!).

So if you want to stick to genuine, buy from Volvo or buy Sachs branded ones elsewhere.

Volvo, like other manufacturers don't produce shock absorbers. The genuine ones you buy are made by someone else.

[Toprivetguns]

I was just curious to see how much life people were obtaining before replacement was due. All valid points. I removed my rear shocks today for a pre-inspection. They compress, however dont return to the up position. New shocks ordered, plus the upgraded steel mounts.

[Kev0607]

Originally Posted by Toprivetguns

I was just curious to see how much life people were obtaining before replacement was due. All valid points. I removed my rear shocks today for a pre-inspection. They compress, however dont return to the up position. New shocks ordered, plus the upgraded steel mounts.

It really depends on the life the shocks have had I suppose. For example, if you live in a place that's full of potholes (like most places here), then the shocks get a beating & won't last as long. If you're cruising up & down a motorway, then the shocks don't get abused as much.

On average, shocks usually need replacing around 100,000-150,000 miles. That's quite a broad spectrum I know, but generally, shocks would be getting tired around that mileage. However, they can fail before that & its not unheard of.

[Drunk]

Just get Sachs or Bilstein, OEM dampers are mostly made by them anyway, so the only thing you'll be paying is the badge if you get them from volvo.

[Toprivetguns]

Shocks and top mount replaced. The aluminium mount and rubber was completely shot. Bilstein B6 and Volvo steel mounts installed. The car is a different beast. Incredibly smooth ride and a fairly simple job. I would recommend spraying the offending parts with WD40 the night before, especially the lower shock to trailing arm bolt.