2001 S80 2.9 strut/shock recommendations

rb61 · Post by **rb61** » 02 Sep 2018, 13:29

Great car- nothing malfunctions. 140K miles. After driving a 3000GT for 25 years, the best way I can describe the handling of this S80 is that of a 58 Buick.

I realize that these cars are vastly different when it come to handling, but I would like to make sure I have it working at its best.
I have no idea as to how to verify if the structs and shocks are original, but if they are, I assume that they are worn enough to effect handling(?). Comments welcomed.

Recommendations for struts and shocks that are somewhat more performance oriented without too much harshness?

Thanks

Post by **RickHaleParker** » 02 Sep 2018, 18:58

Sachs (Boge) is the OEM brand for Struts and Shocks.

Post by **oragex** » 03 Sep 2018, 06:05

It may be the struts but it may also be control arms (use only quality Lemforder or Ipd HD), sway bar bushings, springs. My original shocks were worn but the car was handling very well (only the ride was very stiff)

The S80 is quite a 'Buick' so to speak, really not sporty.

Fcp, Ipd, Eeuroparts, Tasca

Post by **June** » 03 Sep 2018, 09:22

Make sure you replace the springs, mounts, and spring seats as well. On my 2004 S80 I replaced the front struts and springs,,, and I was surprised at how much the front had sagged over the years. It was night and day difference in the way the car drives. The rear is still completely original on my car. All parts replaced on my car were genuine Volvo Blue box parts. My car's ride became harsh almost clunky in the front. Especially if hitting a large bump going down the road the car would bang harshly sounding like the dash hit something. Also the front now with new springs no longer scrapes parking stops as a added bonus. June

Cees Klumper · Post by **Cees Klumper** » 03 Sep 2018, 15:04

You can't really go wrong with the standard Sachs struts etc, agree with others to replace the other components, other than the springs, as well. For a sportier, firmer ride, I recommend the Bilstein HD sold as a set by FCP. They really transformed the handling on our T6 S80.