2008 V50 noise above 40mph (video)

[Vanmansb]

https://youtu.be/-k9td5UZP1o

I've been noticing a really obvious that I can't identify above 40mph. At first I thought the tires were low (it's that sort of drone). Do older Volvos make a lot of noise at speed or could it be something else?

It's louder based on the speed but not in time with acceleration.

I don't have any other problems with the car. It seems to run fine other than this.

2.0 diesel. Fresh MOT a couple weeks ago.

[capt jack]

There are two prime candidates for a noise like that. One is the tyres, the other is a wheel bearing. If the tyres are of the sort that has a large block tread pattern then these can start to make a droning noise as they wear, especially if the wear is a bit uneven.

The other possibility is that you have a noisy wheel bearing, probably but not necessarily at the front.

You could try swapping the wheels front to back to see if that makes any difference. If it does then it's a tyre problem.

You can also check for wheel bearing noise yourself. Jack up each wheel in turn, and then spin it with one hand whilst lightly holding the road spring with the other hand. If you feel any vibration through the spring then the bearing of that wheel is shot.

Whatever you do make sure that the car is safely raised before attempting this!

Arguably the MoT should have picked up a worn bearing, but it's perfectly possible that the fault developed after the test. Also, testers check for wear in the bearings by rocking the wheel top to bottom and side to side, but there can be enough wear to make a noise without it revealing itself in any play.

A new front bearing is likely to cost £250-ish fitted.

Cheers

Jack

[Vanmansb]

Perfect thanks for that. I've only had it a few weeks, bought from a local place. Might ring them to see if they can fix it.