Suspension: rough ride

[jamena]

Hi I have noticed for some time that my ride seems to be not smooth, I know a lot of the roads are really rubish but it is really uncomfortable for me and my passengers. when i had some tires fitted i got them to check the shocks and was told all ok. But there must be something I can do, it is like being off road. someone told me it's because of the 225/17 wide tyres. got any thoughts.
James

[Georgeandkira]

Hello,
1) The 17" wheels' problem is their narrow profile. I've learned not to rail about designs I don't approve of but I do think they are quite stupid in a world where so many roads are bad.

2) I once swapped 16" for 17" wheels on identical vehicles and the difference was very noticeable.

3) My 15" wheels are just fine. The world grew up with high profile tires.

4) Your car is an '03. If the shocks haven't been changed they are not "all ok".

5) If they have been changed, see if "heavy duty" (aka firm) shocks were installed. You want soft, regular shocks. Stiffer shocks are for flying down rough roads in vehicles which can take it. Kira

[jamena]

Originally Posted by Georgeandkira

Hello,
1) The 17" wheels' problem is their narrow profile. I've learned not to rail about designs I don't approve of but I do think they are quite stupid in a world where so many roads are bad.

2) I once swapped 16" for 17" wheels on identical vehicles and the difference was very noticeable.

3) My 15" wheels are just fine. The world grew up with high profile tires.

4) Your car is an '03. If the shocks haven't been changed they are not "all ok".

5) If they have been changed, see if "heavy duty" (aka firm) shocks were installed. You want soft, regular shocks. Stiffer shocks are for flying down rough roads in vehicles which can take it. Kira

thank you the shocks are original as i have had her since a year old. so you think they should be changed.
James

[martinrpeachey]

Just because the shocks aren't "misted", doesn't mean they're ok. Basically, if they have a lot of miles on them, they're probably shot. Also, if you have nivomats on the back, it'll have a harder ride.

[jamena]

Originally Posted by martinrpeachey

Just because the shocks aren't "misted", doesn't mean they're ok. Basically, if they have a lot of miles on them, they're probably shot. Also, if you have nivomats on the back, it'll have a harder ride.

Hi she has done 82k on the shocks.
James

[martinrpeachey]

I'd look at changing them then. Makes a world of difference.

[Georgeandkira]

11 years-82K Not only is it shock time, it's time to change your timing belt and "rollers" (the idler and tensioner pulleys).

Has the coolant ever been refreshed? Because it's dark blue, it masks crud. As a subsequent, the coolant doesn't protect from confusion.
They say it's 5 year coolant. If it's been in there 11 years, you likely need a chemical flush and rinse; nothing spectacular, just a "de-dirting".
You wouldn't want to loose a radiator or heater core for want of clean coolant. Kira

[oragex]

The S60/V70 are known to have a rather stiff suspension from the factory. This only shows on rough roads. As others mentioned, at this miles, the shock still have good rebound, however they have become hard over street imperfections. They are not the only reason for a harder ride. As mentioned, using low profile tires, and also some specific tire brands, will add to the harsher ride, so you are now basically feeling even more the age of the shocks. The ride will still be harsh on new shocks, probably less than now.

Finally, another element is worn suspension arm bushings, that too makes the ride harder compared with a new car.

If you intend to keep the tires, the first thing to replace are the shocks, and that is a little costly, perhaps around 5-£600 using Monroe. Having a tire pressure around 28-30psi also helps.

[cheshired5]

I'm fitting some Meyles myself this week (£86 for the front pair!) to get mine through its mot.
I would have spent more but I've got quite a bit to buy for this year's test after 2 years of nothing.
I know they'll be an immediate improvement but it'll be interesting to see how they hold out long-term.

[jamena]

Originally Posted by Georgeandkira

11 years-82K Not only is it shock time, it's time to change your timing belt and "rollers" (the idler and tensioner pulleys).

Has the coolant ever been refreshed? Because it's dark blue, it masks crud. As a subsequent, the coolant doesn't protect from confusion.
They say it's 5 year coolant. If it's been in there 11 years, you likely need a chemical flush and rinse; nothing spectacular, just a "de-dirting".
You wouldn't want to loose a radiator or heater core for want of clean coolant. Kira

Hi thank you for your input. i have full sevice history timing belt rollers, pulleys, water pump have been changes. coolant was replaced when pump was fitted . she is in very good condition exept for the ride . but i dont know much about shocks. do i fit genuine volvo replacments or,I just do not know.
James