Passenger Axle & Strut Replacement ('04 V70)

Post by **BobbyC777** » 01 May 2026, 07:06

I am going to replace both the passenger side axle and struts on my P2 V70. I have watched several videos and understand the basics but have a couple of questions. Is there a particular order that makes sense - like remove the axle then the strut - that sort of thing. Some videos show removing tie rod connection in order to facilitate removing axle from hub - others don't.

What is torque on carrier bearing and sway bar end links?

Thanks!

Post by **chrism** » 01 May 2026, 07:47

You can replace a strut without removing the axle, and you can replace the axle without removing the strut. So I’d say it doesn’t matter what order you do it. I’m thinking you’ll remove BOTH parts and then reassemble the axle first then the strut. Others may suggest the opposite.

Vova585 · Post by **Vova585** » 01 May 2026, 09:15

What struts are you planning to use? May i caution use against "quick" struts for this car. Even Sachs quick struts were junk and ultimately were discontinued(i bought mine from fcp and spring on one side broke after 8 month). If you are planning to sell the car asap- use whatever you want. If you are planning to keep the car- buy individual oem/oe componenets(I never had a good luck with lesjoforce or Mubarak(or something like that)). Why are you replacing the axle? And also with what part. If you are planning to put some cheap chineesium there- please keep your old one nearby and ready. GKN brand axles are next best thing after OEM IMHO.

Post by **BobbyC777** » 01 May 2026, 09:46

@Vova585 - I purchased IPD strut assemblies. I think FCP no longer sells quick struts maybe due to the problems you mentioned. I am replacing the axle because there is a torn boot. I am using a GKN axle.

Post by **erikv11** » 01 May 2026, 12:47

I'd do what chrism said:

1 - pull the bad strut tower
2 - pull and replace the axle, it will be easier with the strut out of way
3 - install new strut tower

I've recently installed two new (reman) GKN axles into two different P2 cars and both have axle ping, where the CV splines do not sit tightly into the bearing splines so it clicks when you change direction (move trans into F or R). Installing a properly torque a new axle bolt doesn't fix it. Though not a big deal at this point, it is annoying. Hopefully the slop doesn't increase. I'd be interested to hear how yours comes out.

Vova585 · Post by **Vova585** » 01 May 2026, 14:55

Dont throw away that axle. If it is not badly worn, you might need it possibly later. With new parts quality from even well known brands are not surprising anymore. Depending on the price of assemblies..price it out from FCP for individual oem parts mabe some sachs(strut, seat, bearing), spring only oem in my opinion. Ride quality will sure be more close to the original than anything ipd sells. Local shop vs harbor freight cage type spring compressor can be of help. I never had any luck with "quick" struts, neither I read on this forum anyone was particularly exited about them.

Post by **BobbyC777** » 01 May 2026, 15:21

@ericv11 -

Thanks for the suggestion on the order of strut & axle removal and replacement.

That is disappointing to hear about your GKN axle noise. I went with them as they have had a good reputation. Did your GKN axles come from FCP &, if so, have you spoken to them about this?

Post by **erikv11** » 01 May 2026, 15:53

Unfortunately I bought the GKN axles from RockAuto because they were $100+ cheaper per axle and hey, they are GKN, what could go wrong? I have now bought three from them in the last 1.5 years, and two are clicking/pinging.

I agree with Vova585 I'd hang on to the axle you pull. In all three instances I was replacing aftermarket axles from previous owners that failed badly, so I didn't have that option.

Post by **chrism** » 01 May 2026, 21:16

I’m a bit surprised to hear about the quality issues with the GKN replacement axles. Are these “remanufactured” units? After all, GKNs are OE for those cars. I think some people’s idea of rebuilding is to take them apart, clean them out, add new grease and boots and call it good.
Years ago, on a couple different occasions, I sent axles to Axles Unlimited for remachining/rebuilding and was quite pleased with the results. You might want to explore that route.

Post by **cn90** » 02 May 2026, 08:19

- Take the struts out first.
If you disconnect the tie rod, then you can swing the knuckle more, allowing the axle to come out.
- I always keep the original axle and watch it when it is > 15 yrs or 120K miles, this is when it usually cracks. If you catch it before the rubber cracks, then you can clean it, applied new grease and boot (GKN boots only)...it should last similar amount of time/miles. I never have to buy after-market or another axle.
- Don't forget eBay is a good source for used axles, make sure the boot is intact. Buy used axles for let's say $50, clean it and apply new boots. Now you have an axle that should be trouble-free.
- I usually replace the axle seals too

Anyway, this topic has been beaten to death. All info is in that "2004 V70 Axle DIY" that I wrote some years ago...