Awesome or insane? 135K on original shocks and struts

Post by **drvolvo** » 14 May 2009, 17:26

I have a 2001 S40 with 135K (a lot of highway miles) and I have never replaced my shocks or struts. Can I brag or should I be worried about this 'feat'. I've had a right front axle replaced, but I've never been told (or asked) if I should replace anything pertaining to shocks or struts. I told someone this 'feat' recently and they thought I was crazy/lying. Should I be concerned or is this par for the course for someone who takes good care of a volvo The car drives fine and there is no indication (sound, shimmy) that anything needs to be replaced.

File under awesome?

Post by **MadeInJapan** » 14 May 2009, 17:38

awesome or insane? Depends on your roads...but I'll bet you're close to needing them replaced. I replaced mine at 100K miles on my S70 and I'm up near 173K miles- I can feel a replacement coming on soon.

Post by **drvolvo** » 15 May 2009, 22:13

Thanks for the reply. What are some tell-tale signs or sounds that I am in need of a replacement? I'll be sure to keep my eyes and ears pealed now.

Post by **MadeInJapan** » 16 May 2009, 21:11

Pretty easy really- you go over bumps or bad places in the road and the car bottoms out- in other words, it goes "thud" but more with a crashing sound... you can also try pushing down on one corner of the car and see how it responds- a bit harder to tell on a Volvo but it should not bounce a bit...another sign is to look at them- visual inspection- are they leaking- is it wet where the shock halves meet?