A Practical Guide to Replacing Engine Mounts on Your 1998-2000 Volvo S70
Stop the shaking and clunking by choosing the right engine mounts for your S70's 5-cylinder engine.
- The upper engine mount is a common failure point and the easiest to inspect and replace.
- For the main hydraulic mounts, spending more on a premium brand like Genuine Volvo or Corteco will prevent vibrations and premature failure.
- Avoid budget brands like URO Parts for rubber components, as they have a poor reputation for quality and longevity.
- If one mount is broken, the others are likely worn; replacing them in a set can be a wise long-term investment.
Is Your S70 Shaking, Rattling, or Clunking?
Worn engine mounts are a very common issue on the 1998-2000 Volvo S70. The most frequent culprit is the upper engine mount, also known as a torque mount or stabilizer, located at the top of the engine. This mount can fail quickly, sometimes in as little as 10,000 miles, causing a distinct knock when you accelerate or shift gears. The lower mounts, especially the hydraulic one on the passenger side, also wear out over time. A failed lower mount often causes a constant vibration that you can feel in the steering wheel and through the floor, particularly when the car is idling.
Symptoms of a Bad Engine Mount
- Excessive Vibration: A strong vibration felt in the steering wheel, seats, or cabin, especially at idle or when the AC is on.
- Clunking or Thudding Noises: Loud clunks or bangs from the engine bay when you accelerate, brake, or shift from drive to reverse.
- Engine Movement: You might see the engine visibly lurch or rock if an assistant puts the car in gear while holding the brake and lightly pressing the gas. The engine should not move more than an inch or so.
Known Issues for the 1998-2000 Volvo S70
The upper engine stabilizer mount is a well-known weak point on this platform. Volvo released several updated designs over the years to improve its lifespan, but it remains a part that wears out regularly. When inspecting your mounts, always check this one first as it is easy to see and often the first to fail. While there was a recall for engine mount bolts on some 2008 Volvo models, it does not apply to the 1998-2000 S70.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Engine Mount
Not all aftermarket mounts are created equal. For a car like the S70, the quality of the rubber and hydraulic components is critical for a smooth, vibration-free ride. Cheaper mounts often use harder rubber or fail quickly, bringing the vibration and noise right back.
Brand Quality Tiers
- Premium Aftermarket (OEM-Equivalent): Brands like Genuine Volvo, Corteco, and Hutchinson are your best bet for a repair that lasts. Corteco is a known OEM supplier to major car manufacturers, meaning their parts often match the quality of the original. These brands cost more, but they provide the correct vibration damping and durability, saving you from doing the job twice.
- Mid-Grade Aftermarket: Brands such as Vaico, Professional Parts Sweden (PPS), and Meyle fall into this category. The quality can be inconsistent. Some owners have had success, while others report issues. These can be a decent budget option if you're willing to accept a potentially shorter lifespan compared to premium parts.
- Economy / Budget Brands: This tier includes brands like URO Parts, Anchor, and DEA. Forum users and mechanics frequently advise against using URO Parts for rubber components like engine mounts, citing extremely poor quality and immediate failures. One owner reported a URO mount collapsing as soon as the engine's weight was rested on it. While very inexpensive, these brands are not recommended for the main hydraulic mounts if you want to avoid cabin vibrations.
Pro Tip: Where to Spend and Where to Save
If you're on a tight budget, you might get away with using a mid-grade brand for the simple, solid rubber mounts like the upper torque mount. However, for the main front hydraulic mount (passenger side), it is highly recommended to invest in a Premium or Genuine Volvo part. This mount is primarily responsible for absorbing idle vibrations, and budget versions are notorious for failing to do this job properly.
Cost of Replacing Volvo S70 Engine Mounts
| Part or Service | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Single Aftermarket Mount | $16.75 - $144.35 |
| Single Genuine Volvo Mount | $75 - $250+ |
| Shop Labor (Full Set) | $300 - $600 |
Note: Labor costs vary significantly by location and which mounts are being replaced. The upper mount may only take 30 minutes of labor, while the full set can take 3-5 hours.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many engine mounts does my 1998-2000 S70 have?
The front-wheel-drive (FWD) models have a total of five mounts: an upper torque mount, a front lower mount (passenger side, hydraulic), a rear lower mount (hydraulic), a left transmission mount, and a lower transmission torque mount.
Can I replace just one bad mount?
Yes, you can replace just the one that has failed. However, engine mounts tend to wear out at a similar rate. If one has failed, the others are likely worn and under extra stress. If your budget allows, it's often a good idea to replace them as a set, especially if they are over 100,000 miles old.
How can I check if my mounts are bad?
Visually inspect them for cracked, torn, or collapsed rubber. The front hydraulic mount may leak dark fluid when it fails. A common test is to have a helper hold the brakes, put the car in 'Drive,' and gently apply the throttle while you watch the engine. If the engine lifts or rocks more than an inch, your mounts are likely bad. Repeat the test in 'Reverse'.
Should I use polyurethane (poly) mounts?
Polyurethane mounts are a performance upgrade designed to reduce engine movement for better throttle response. However, they are very stiff and will transmit significantly more engine vibration into the cabin, especially at idle. For a daily driven car where comfort is important, it's best to stick with high-quality OEM-style rubber mounts.
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 8649597 30641488 8631698 6801722 9480190
The 1998-2000 Volvo S70 FWD uses a five-mount system, including a top engine stabilizer (torque mount), a front hydraulic mount, a rear hydraulic mount, a transmission mount, and a lower torque rod.
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The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
- Volvo S70:
- 🛍️ Shop This Part
- Is Your S70 Shaking, Rattling, or Clunking?
- Symptoms of a Bad Engine Mount
- Known Issues for the 1998-2000 Volvo S70
- Choosing the Right Aftermarket Engine Mount
- Brand Quality Tiers
- Pro Tip: Where to Spend and Where to Save
- Cost of Replacing Volvo S70 Engine Mounts
- Frequently Asked Questions
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