Bouncy front end

[S60inFrance]

I have a 2007 S60 2.4D which has developed a strange front end bounce, which is most noticeable when slowing at junctions. It's quite subtle and similar to driving over an undulating surface.

Any ideas what it might be?

[Georgeandkira]

Could be the front struts don't dampen like they used to.

I have a 2007 as well and I have creaking and grunting noises accompanying my mushiness.
I have Bilsteins awaiting...but the little work elves haven't installed them yet.

How many miles on your 2007?

[S60inFrance]

It's done 73k. Maybe hustling it down the deserted French lanes is not treating it nicely!

I just find it odd that the issue is most noticeable at low speed.

[Kev0607]

Does it feel uncomfortable at all, like harsh over bumps? That would be another sign of worn shocks.

[S60inFrance]

Not particularly no. I guess at times it feels a little bit undersprung but that could be my fault!

[Kev0607]

I guess its 17 years old... there's bound to be wear.

If shocks have never been replaced before, I think a new set would make a world of difference. Change the top mounts whilst you're at it (or the garage). Makes sense.

[S60inFrance]

Duplicate

[S60inFrance]

Originally Posted by Kev0607

I guess its 17 years old... there's bound to be wear.

If shocks have never been replaced before, I think a new set would make a world of difference. Change the top mounts whilst you're at it (or the garage). Makes sense.

Could well be worth it, do you suggest all 4 or just front?

[stuart bowes]

Originally Posted by S60inFrance

I just find it odd that the issue is most noticeable at low speed.

tbh I find that more likely than at high speed, if you think about it imagine driving along a cobbled road at 100mph all the vibrations would blur into one smooth-ish ride, whereas crawling slowly you'd feel each bump individually

the momentum of the car carries you more forwards at speed but at lower speeds the up/down has more chance to affect the chassis' vertical movement

or something like that but with with proper scientific terms added in to make it sound clever

probably just at that awkward mileage where it's nice and relatively 'new' but not old enough for parts to have been replaced yet. a plus point for interiors and bodywork but a negative for running gear and bushes etc

[Kev0607]

Originally Posted by S60inFrance

Could well be worth it, do you suggest all 4 or just front?

That depends on your budget really. The rear ones are very easy to change though, compared to the front. The fronts are more involved, as you have to compress the springs and disconnect a few parts to actually get to the shock absorbers. The back is much easier and less time consuming.

If budget allows, change all 4 including the top mounts. If not, maybe do the fronts for now and leave the back for a later date. Generally, the front shocks take more abuse than the rear. There's a lot more weight on the front of the car too.