S70 Wheel Noise

Dave123 · Post by **Dave123** » 18 Feb 2011, 05:16

I bought a '98 S70 T5 this past winter and it had snows on it. I noticed what I thought was tire noise (low frequency) that doesn't change when I drop it into neutral so I don't think it is related to the transmission. Just put a fresh set of Goodyears on it and have the exact same noise, especially at just over 40mph. I'd think maybe wheel bearing but the noise is much lower frequency than what I've typically associated with a wheel bearing (higher pitch, grinding and metalic).

I did recently replace the passanger side axle due to a bad CV joint. Appreciate any ideas.

Post by **JRL** » 18 Feb 2011, 05:52

Wheel bearing(s)

Post by **RobTheModd** » 18 Feb 2011, 06:52

Did everything go back together smoothly?
Perhaps a dustsheild got bent?

I would take the wheel off and spot check everything, dont remove stuff, but check to see if anything is touching.

but with what jrl said. maybe it is just your wheel bearing starting to go.

Post by **cn90** » 18 Feb 2011, 07:55

What is the mileage?

Dave123 · Post by **Dave123** » 19 Feb 2011, 06:14

Car has 119k on it. It was making the noise before I replaced the axle, thought it was just tire noise from the snow tires, but have the same noise with new rubber put on this week, and everything went back together fine when I replaced the axle. Guess this will be a good excuse to also replace the axle/trans seal that is now leaking slightly from when I replaced the axle when I pull the wheel hub(s) to replace them. Odd, my '95 850 that I drove for 300k never had any of these issues.

Post by **EstVolvo** » 19 Feb 2011, 22:07

I have a similar thing going on. 2000 V70 111000 miles. The noise gets louder on curved highway ramps or after driving 10 minutes or so. Seems to be common failure on S/V70. I had also good luck with my previous car when it comes to wheel bearings (and many other things). 300000+ miles and maybe it would be still running, but the body started falling apart after 23 years.
What kind of wheel bearings should we get as a replacement?

Post by **jblackburn** » 19 Feb 2011, 23:00

FAG bearings are the OEM manufacturer, but you can get them for about $50 cheaper than the "Volvo" branded ones.

Post by **EstVolvo** » 20 Feb 2011, 02:47

Groton sells Optimal brand front wheel bearings - what to think about those?
Who sells FAG bearings?
Maybe I better stay away from the original brand since they lasted so little.

Dave123 · Post by **Dave123** » 22 Feb 2011, 06:55

Anyone know what size the torx bolt heads are on the back side to get wheel hubs off?

Post by **jblackburn** » 22 Feb 2011, 07:42

E14 I believe. I found some sockets at Autozone for $5. Sears wanted like $50 for a set.