Speed, wind related whistling sound 1997 Volvo 850 GLT

52like · Post by **52like** » 17 Jul 2013, 20:48

I have had so much trouble with my dearly beloved 1997 Volvo 850 GLT 4-door sedan, 2.4L that one more problem is the last thing I need.

There is a whistling sound coming from under the hood of my car that seems to be related to speed and wind. I need to be going at least 60 mph to hear it. I took my car to one auto mechanic and paid $49.00 for my trouble only to be told it was my rear tires because they were cupping??? Bologna!

I have had a tremendous amount of work done on my car in the last 2 years. The engine was pulled and seals were replaced, new front suspension, new axels and seals, new front control arms (ball joints), new front sway bar links, new brakes and more. However, there is a transmission fluid leak from somewhere and I have four different opinions on this problem.

Any ideas on this disconcerting whistling sound? Any information would be greatly appreciated. I am forty nine dollaring myself to death. Thank you.

Post by **erikv11** » 18 Jul 2013, 09:28

About half of the 850s I look at, are missing that piece of trim across the top of the windshield. Could be that.

If its is missing on your car, try just putting a piece of electrical tap across there, as a diagnostic test. If that fixes it, I'd take it to a windshield repair place an get some generic trim (or have them install a piece).

Post by **kahl** » 18 Jul 2013, 11:30

I had a similar problem on my 94 850. As erikv said look at that windshield strip at the top. Mine would make the sound you described. To nail the problem I took masking tape along the top to secure the strip. No Noise. Mine was dry rotted so I removed the rubber strip and no more noise.

52like · Post by **52like** » 18 Jul 2013, 13:22

I was just told something by a auto glass shop. They said the windshield would have to be removed to replace the rubber strip. They wouldn't guarantee the windshield wouldn't break. It doesn't sound right. Were you able to just replace the strip?

I do very much appreciate your help.

Post by **kahl** » 18 Jul 2013, 13:40

I would run a piece of masking tape along the strip. Confirm this is what is making the noise.

Post by **JRL** » 18 Jul 2013, 13:53

kahl wrote:I would run a piece of masking tape along the strip. Confirm this is what is making the noise.

+ 2

To add to that. If it helps but it's still not 100% perfect, mask off the entire windshield (including the bottom) and try that

Post by **erikv11** » 18 Jul 2013, 17:51

52like wrote:I was just told something by a auto glass shop. They said the windshield would have to be removed to replace the rubber strip. They wouldn't guarantee the windshield wouldn't break. It doesn't sound right. Were you able to just replace the strip?

I do very much appreciate your help.

As suggested, first figure out if the molding is the problem before spending to fix it. But no, the glass does not have to be removed to fix the strip. There are many ways to go about it. Here is some good reading on this topic, especially the first thread:

https://www.matthewsvolvosite.com/forums ... hp?t=54782
https://www.matthewsvolvosite.com/forums ... =1&t=26826
Body exterior trim wipers glass windshield noisehowling

52like · Post by **52like** » 20 Jul 2013, 20:19

Thank you all so much.