Other XC90 Problem: XC90 D5 engine mounts & subframe Rant

[ifzal123]

XC90 D5 2004 163 107k Auto


Its been a while since I last posted a thread

The XC went in on Wednesday to Rigby Volvo (Brum) for knocking/clunk sounds that could be heard when braking & going over bumps.

So I specifically asked to have all the engine/gearbox mount checked.

Report came back that

1. The top strut mounts & shock absorbers need to be replaced
2. Subframe is moving so needs further investigation - (also that someting had ceased related to the subframe - cant remember what)
3. Brake pad is loose in carrier so refit greasing the caliper
4.Top engine mount needs replacing
5. Steering rack needs replacing.




Obviously the Volvo prices were very expensive to carry out the work so I decided to get a quote from my local Indy.

He told me that the subframe is fine and bolted in securely. He agreed with changing the top strut mounts only and said that the front & rear vacuum & gearbox mounts needed changing along with the top mount.

He demonstrated the clunk when selecting reverse

He also agreed with the steering rack being replaced.


So Im really annoyed now and am leaning towards the Indys diagnosis rather than Volvo's - I have asked volvo to explain exactly what was checked and whether they will look at the XC again FOC.


The steering rack was refurbished when I purchased the xc. A new one is £1k. Is it better to refurb again or buy a second hand one. Definitely not buying a new one. The steering makes a slight squeak. Can this be left as is. Will the steering rack deteriorate?




Thanks in advance for your advice

[gmonag]

Re. the subframe mount - I chased a similar knocking last year and fixed it by fitting subframe bushing inserts. They only cost about £20 and only take a few minutes to fit.

Worth a try before other more expensive fixes

[Rooster]

The steering rack movement is normal they all do it, the pinion can be adjusted but it never really stops it but they don't usually cause any noises

I'd start with strut top mounts and go from there,

Mines had all new front lower arms, nsf wheel bearing and rear trailing arm bushes in the last year along with rear discs, pads and handbrake shoes,

[Tannaton]

The Volvo dealer will always do what they think to get the car to "as new" spec. Why? Because their reputation is better protected if the work cures everything and you never have to take it back. They would rather 3 customers spend £1000 each with them rather than 5 customers spend £750 each and 2 come back and complain the problem is not fixed.

With regards to the rack - it all depends on why the mechanic suggested replacing it - if it is because it has play to a point where it would fail an MOT then it should be (if it cannot be adjusted out).

Strut top mounts are common causes of knocking and creaking, they're not expensive and with the right tools are 20 mins each to fit.

[oragex]

You don't mention what was the specific issue with the steering rack? Was it leaking?

[VolvoHK]

Where can I get a brand new steering rack shipped to Hong Kong?

Whats the cost of a brand new steering rack?

Thanks

[Harley Dave]

Google is (once again) your friend

https://www.buycarparts.co.uk/shipping

Cheers

Dave

[ifzal123]

Originally Posted by oragex

You don't mention what was the specific issue with the steering rack? Was it leaking?

sorry for late reply.

No leaks. Just squeaks when turning. No signs of any leaks.

The rack has already been reconditioned twice