A Volvo Owner's Guide to the Upper Engine Torque Strut Mount for the 2004-2016 S80
Eliminate engine clunks and vibrations by understanding this common failure point on your Volvo S80.
- A clunking noise on acceleration is the #1 sign of a failed upper torque mount.
- For this part, always choose an OEM-equivalent brand like Corteco or Hutchinson over budget brands to ensure a smooth ride and long life.
- This is a very easy and quick DIY repair that most owners can do with basic tools in under an hour.
- If you own a 2008 S80 with a V8, check if the engine mount recall service has been performed.
Is Your Volvo S80 Making a Clunking Noise?
If you hear a loud "clunk" or "thud" from the engine bay when you accelerate or brake, a failed upper engine torque strut mount is the most likely cause. This part contains a large rubber bushing that wears out over time. The rubber can crack, dry out, or completely separate, leaving the engine unsecured. When this happens, the engine can move and hit other components, creating noise and vibration that you can feel in the cabin.
Symptoms of a Failing Torque Strut Mount
- Clunking or Thudding Noises: The most common symptom is a distinct noise during changes in speed.
- Excessive Vibration: You may feel a rough vibration through the steering wheel or the whole car, especially when idling in gear.
- Visible Engine Movement: If you open the hood and have someone shift the car from park to drive (with the brake held firmly), you may see the engine lurch or rock excessively. 🎬 Watch: How to identify and replace a worn torque rod.
- Visual Damage: A quick inspection may reveal that the rubber bushing in the mount is cracked, torn, or has pieces missing.
A Word of Warning on Budget Brands
For Volvo suspension and engine components, quality matters. While budget-friendly brands like Anchor, DEA, Westar, and URO Parts are available, they are not recommended for this repair. Volvo owner forums are filled with reports of these cheaper mounts failing within months, or even causing more vibration than the original broken part. The rubber compound used is often too hard and does not absorb vibration properly, defeating the purpose of the part on a car designed for comfort.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Part: Brand Quality Tiers
When replacing this mount, choosing a quality brand is critical for a lasting repair that restores your car's smooth ride. The small savings from a budget part are often lost when you have to do the job again in a year.
Tier 1: OEM-Equivalent Brands
These brands are known to be the original equipment manufacturers (OEM) for Volvo. Choosing one of these is the closest you can get to buying a genuine part from the dealership, ensuring a perfect fit and proper performance.
- Corteco: Often cited as a direct OEM supplier for Volvo engine mounts.
- Hutchinson: Another known OEM supplier for Volvo rubber and metal parts.
- Lemförder: A well-regarded brand that is frequently an OEM supplier for European vehicles.
Tier 2: Quality Aftermarket Brands
These brands focus on meeting or exceeding original specifications and are a reliable choice.
- Beck Arnley: Specializes in parts for import vehicles and is known for sourcing parts that match factory form and function.
Tier 3: Budget Brands (Use with Caution)
These brands offer the lowest price but come with significant risks of poor performance and short lifespan on a Volvo.
- URO Parts: While they make many European car parts, their rubber components like engine mounts have a poor reputation for quality and longevity.
- Anchor, DEA, Westar: These are general aftermarket brands often criticized for using hard rubber and having a high failure rate in Volvo applications.
Known Issues: Recall for 2008 Volvo S80 V8
There was a safety recall (NHTSA Campaign #08V206000) for a small number of 2008 Volvo S80 models equipped with the V8 engine. The recall stated that incorrect bolts may have been used on an engine mount bracket, which could cause the bracket to break and potentially lead to the engine stalling. If you own a 2008 S80 V8, it is wise to contact a Volvo dealer with your VIN 🎬 See this walkthrough for V8 upper and lower mount replacement. to ensure this recall service was performed.
Pro Tip: An Easy DIY Replacement
Replacing the upper torque strut mount is one of the easiest repairs you can do on your S80. It is located right on top of the engine and is held in by just a few bolts. Most owners with basic hand tools can complete this job in under an hour, saving on labor costs. 🎬 Watch: A quick guide to replacing your P3 torque mount. Just be sure to move the coolant expansion tank aside for better access.
Cost of Replacing the Engine Torque Strut Mount
| Part Type | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New OEM (Genuine Volvo) | $110 - $180 |
| New Aftermarket | $40 - $116 |
| Shop Labor | $50 - $200 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I drive with a bad torque strut mount?
Yes, but it's not recommended for long. While the car is drivable, the excess engine movement can put stress on other parts like exhaust pipes, hoses, and other engine mounts, leading to more expensive repairs down the road.
Why shouldn't I just buy the cheapest mount?
The main job of this part in a Volvo is to absorb vibration for a smooth ride. Cheaper mounts often use a hard rubber that transmits more vibration into the car than the old, broken part did. They are also known to fail very quickly, sometimes in less than a year.
Is this the only engine mount on my S80?
No. Your S80 has several mounts, including a right-side mount, a transmission mount, and a lower torque mount. The upper torque strut is often the first to fail and is the easiest to inspect and replace.
Do I need special tools for this job?
No special tools are required. A basic socket and wrench set is usually all that is needed. Common socket sizes for this job are 15mm and 18mm.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 31262448 31670126 30680770 8671633
This part is located on the top of the engine, connecting the engine block to the chassis cross-member. It is primarily made of aluminum with a large rubber bushing to absorb torque and vibration.
We Have This Part in Stock
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 S80:
- 🎬 Helpful Videos
- 🛍️ Shop This Part
- Is Your Volvo S80 Making a Clunking Noise?
- Symptoms of a Failing Torque Strut Mount
- A Word of Warning on Budget Brands
- Choosing the Right Aftermarket Part: Brand Quality Tiers
- Tier 1: OEM-Equivalent Brands
- Tier 2: Quality Aftermarket Brands
- Tier 3: Budget Brands (Use with Caution)
- Known Issues: Recall for 2008 Volvo S80 V8
- Pro Tip: An Easy DIY Replacement
- Cost of Replacing the Engine Torque Strut Mount
- Frequently Asked Questions
- 🎟️ Get 5% Off