Don't forget to lubricate the servo seal

[oragex]

Have a look here. I'd recommend doing this before the seal fails - which is almost an engine out job on right hand driving cars. The lubricant used by Volvo it's losing its properties after 10 years, and the seal starts deteriorating and finally leaking causing reduced braking power and worn out vacuum pump. This will start happen on all vehicles 8-10 years old.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TuA8nuIeQb8

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[Mac940]

I think this should get pinned to the top of the subforum. It's one of these essentials you need to do.

[Georgeandkira]

Thanks for the tip and the video.
Just took a look at mine. Intact accordion black "rubber" boot in place.

Around its base was a thin band (1/4" wide, 1/8" thick) of foam which had long ago dried out. It seemed inconsequential.

Bit of lube seen seeping from the boot's small end. Nothing looked to be wanting for lube.

Is the hardware shown in the video beneath this boot?
Do you destroy this boot during removal?

Is there more than one boot like the steering column?

TIA

[jgjones095]

Can I ask what are the symptoms of a failing seal?

[Mac940]

Originally Posted by jgjones095

Can I ask what are the symptoms of a failing seal?

Hissing sound from the footwell area when the air is pulled by the vacuum past failing seal.

[oragex]

Correct, I'd would also add that when it starts hissing, it means the seal is actually so worn that it started coming out of it's groove, it's the final stage before it fails completely. However the seal gets damaged well before it starts hissing, reason for doing the greasing timely before it's too late. Another sign that the seal started to deteriorate, is black marks on the white cylinder, just like in the picture below (the grey 'accordion' cover needs be tossed to see this).