how to determine if my Volvo XC60 Second Generation (2018-2024) needs new shocks or struts

Volvo XC60 Second Generation (2018-2024)

Error Codes

2-4 hours

Time

medium

Difficulty

medium

Severity

3 min read

553 words

Problem Statement

Learn how to determine if your 2018-2024 Volvo XC60 needs new shocks or struts. Follow our diagnostic steps and repair instructions for effective solutions.

Affected Component

Suspension

Estimated Time

2-4 hours

⚠️ Safety Warnings

Important safety information - read before proceeding

•Ensure the vehicle is securely lifted and supported before working underneath it.
•Always wear safety goggles and gloves while performing repairs.

Symptoms

•Excessive bouncing or swaying during driving
•Uneven tire wear, particularly on the inside or outside edges
•Vehicle feels unstable or leans during turns
•Increased braking distance or nose dive during stops
•Visible oil leakage on the shock or strut body
•Loud noises such as clunking or banging over bumps

Diagnostic Steps

1
Inspect the shocks and struts visually for any signs of oil leaks or physical damage.
2
Perform a bounce test by pressing down on each corner of the vehicle; observe how many times it bounces back.
3
Check for uneven tire wear patterns, particularly focusing on the inner and outer edges of the tires.
4
Conduct a road test to assess handling, stability, and noise levels during typical driving conditions.
5
Measure the ride height and compare it to the manufacturer's specifications to check for sagging.
6
Evaluate the vehicle's response in turns to determine if there’s excessive body roll.

Solution

💡 Expert Tip

For complex repairs like this, consider taking photos at each step. This helps if you need to reverse a step or consult with a mechanic. Also, keep all removed parts organized - you may need to reference them during reassembly.

Verification

After completing the repair, verify that the issue has been resolved:

✓Test the affected component to ensure it functions correctly
✓Check for any error codes or warning lights
✓Monitor the vehicle for a few days to ensure the issue does not recur

Prevention Tips

To prevent this issue from occurring again:

•Follow the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule
•Address warning signs early before they develop into major issues
•Use quality parts and fluids recommended for your vehicle
•Keep detailed records of all repairs and maintenance

Tools & Equipment Required

•Jack and jack stands
•Socket set
•Torque wrench
•Wrench set
•Battery terminal wrench

Parts Required

•New shocks or struts (front and/or rear as needed)
•Mounting hardware (if not included with new shocks/struts)

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Symptoms

•Excessive bouncing or swaying during driving

•Uneven tire wear, particularly on the inside or outside edges

•Vehicle feels unstable or leans during turns

•Increased braking distance or nose dive during stops

•Visible oil leakage on the shock or strut body

•Loud noises such as clunking or banging over bumps

Diagnostic Steps

1
Inspect the shocks and struts visually for any signs of oil leaks or physical damage.
2
Perform a bounce test by pressing down on each corner of the vehicle; observe how many times it bounces back.
3
Check for uneven tire wear patterns, particularly focusing on the inner and outer edges of the tires.
4
Conduct a road test to assess handling, stability, and noise levels during typical driving conditions.
5
Measure the ride height and compare it to the manufacturer's specifications to check for sagging.
6
Evaluate the vehicle's response in turns to determine if there’s excessive body roll.

Solution

1. Preparation

Gather necessary tools and parts.
Park the vehicle on a flat surface and engage the parking brake.
Disconnect the battery if necessary.

2. Raise the Vehicle

Use a jack to lift the vehicle and secure it on jack stands.
Remove the wheels for better access to the shocks/struts.

3. Remove Old Shocks/Struts

Locate the upper and lower mounting bolts for the shock/strut.
Use a socket set to remove the upper and lower bolts. Note: Keep a wrench on the opposite side to prevent rotation.
Carefully detach the shock/strut from the vehicle.

4. Install New Shocks/Struts

Position the new shock/strut in place, aligning it with the mounting points.
Insert and hand-tighten the bolts first, then torque them to the manufacturer's specifications (usually around 50-60 ft-lbs for upper bolts and 70-80 ft-lbs for lower bolts, confirm with service manual).
Reattach any components that were removed for access.

5. Reassemble and Lower the Vehicle

Reinstall the wheels and torque the lug nuts to the manufacturer's specifications (typically 80-100 ft-lbs).
Lower the vehicle and remove the jack stands.
Reconnect the battery if it was disconnected.