First, "I" would never let a tire company "fix" anything on my car except tires. That is what they do best, the rest should be left to a mechanic or a reputable alignment shop.

The rubber spring seat could be worn out, which requires strut removal in order to replace it. Easy check: Get a large wrench or pair of pliers and try to turn the large nut at the top of the shock (raise hood) clockwise. If there is little resistance, that is your problem. If you replace it, get a seat designed for an XC90 (OEM) which will last for a very long time.

If you farm the job out, the shop will suggest replacing the struts as well. The same amount of labor is involved, just the cost of new struts is added. Most shops will charge $900-1,000 to replace front struts, included is an alignment ($100).

Also check the sway bar end link, when they go soft they rattle a lot. Just reach behind the wheel, find the 1/4 inch vertical rod, and try to shake it. If the rod moves, replace it with an IPD end link which is going to last 10 times longer than OEM. Easy to replace yourself with just 2 wrenches.

Klaus
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Always willing to listen, just not able to take direction.

Hi David,

I'd check the top strut mount for being worn. The strut will hog out the hole,
requiring replacement. I went with a FCP replacement strut mount, and afterwards
I found people suggesting that OEM Strut mounts hold up much better.
That's important since you should realign the front end after replacing
the strut mount.
Make sure also that the upper strut clamp isn't loose- I had an issue with that.

Finally does it click when hitting bumps or when you turn to the limit?
CV joints can click when going sour.

Bill