Parts for your 2017 Volvo Xc60-Struts

Understanding the Role of Struts on the 2017 Volvo XC60 and Tips for Maintenance

The 2017 Volvo XC60 is a well-engineered luxury SUV known for its blend of comfort, safety, and performance. When it comes to suspension components, many car owners and enthusiasts often ask about the presence and function of struts in this vehicle. After referencing technical sources and official Volvo parts documentation, it is clear that the 2017 XC60 does indeed use struts as part of its front suspension setup.

So, why are struts important, and what should XC60 owners know about them? Struts are a critical component of a vehicle's suspension system. They serve a dual role by not only absorbing shocks from the road but also providing structural support to the suspension. On the front end of the XC60, the struts effectively replace the need for an upper control arm, combining the functions of shock absorbers and a coil spring into one assembly.

This design improves the vehicle's handling and ride quality, which Volvo has carefully balanced to deliver that smooth driving experience XC60 owners expect. The struts help keep the tyres in firm contact with the road, improving traction and stability whether cruising down the highway or navigating tight city streets. Without properly functioning struts, the car might experience uneven tyre wear, reduced handling capabilities, and a less comfortable ride.

When it comes to maintaining or replacing struts on the 2017 Volvo XC60, here are a few things to keep in mind:

1. Purpose of Struts
   • Dampens impacts from road irregularities to improve ride comfort.
   • Maintains proper alignment of wheels and suspension geometry.
   • Supports the weight of the vehicle, contributing to suspension structure.
2. Signs You Might Need Strut Replacement
   • Excessive bouncing or swaying when driving over bumps or around corners.
   • Leaking fluid visible on or near the strut assembly.
   • Strange noises such as clunking or knocking when driving on rough roads.
   • Uneven tyre wear indicating poor suspension control.
3. Maintenance Tips
   • Have your suspension inspected at regular service intervals or when you notice changes in ride quality.
   • Replace struts in pairs (both front or both rear) to maintain balanced handling.
   • Check related components like coil springs, mounts, and bushings for wear when servicing struts.
4. Professional Servicing Considerations
   • Struts replacement requires specific tools and safety precautions due to the high tension in the spring assembly.
   • Alignment checks and adjustments after replacement are essential to prevent uneven tyre wear and maintain handling.
   • Using genuine Volvo parts or high-quality aftermarket struts ensures compatibility and longevity.

The front suspension setup of the 2017 Volvo XC60, which incorporates struts, is a fine balance of comfort and performance. Over time, wear and tear on struts is inevitable thanks to Australian roads often presenting potholes, rough patches, and a mix of urban and highway conditions. Regular checks as part of vehicle servicing can catch early signs of strut degradation before the ride quality drops significantly or safety is compromised.

Interestingly, while the front suspension uses struts, the rear suspension of the XC60 is usually configured differently, often with a multi-link setup that uses shock absorbers and separate coil springs rather than struts. This combination helps optimise both comfort and handling characteristics tailored to each axle's specific demands.

For those keen to DIY some maintenance, it's worth noting that strut replacement is not typically a quick or easy task. The coil springs in struts are under significant tension and require a spring compressor tool and mechanical know-how to remove and refit safely. If you're not experienced with suspension work, leaving this job to a trained technician is usually the best call. The investment in professional repair ensures the vehicle's handling and safety are preserved, and it avoids potential injury or damage caused by improper installation.

In everyday driving, good struts keep the XC60 feeling planted and comfortable, soaking up bumps and helping with steering precision. If there's any noticeable decline in these areas, it's a good time to have the suspension inspected. Proactive care often translates to a longer lifespan for the entire suspension system and keeps the Volvo XC60 performing at its best.

Regular servicing that includes inspection and potential replacement of worn struts is a smart part of maintaining your 2017 Volvo XC60. It makes your drives safer and smoother, protects other suspension parts and tyres from unnecessary strain, and helps preserve the vehicle's value and driving enjoyment for many years to come.