My 2000 V70 XC SE was making noises last night when turning hard to the left and accelerating. After it did this, I could feel the vibration in the steering wheel. I shut the engine off for a while and it was OK again when I started up.

I'm guessing there is something wrong with the steering rack and given the 133K miles on the clock I guess it may be due for a replacement.

Wondering if it is better to go with a remaned unit vs dealer? Also what other part are worth replacing at this same time? Does the PS pump go bad eventually? The supply and pressure hoses for the rack etc.

Thanks

Don't jump to the most expensive conclusion first! You were cornering hard in a turn while accelerating. Let me tell you a quick story:
I took my 1998 awd R out for a spin. As I got to the short 90 degree right turn to get on the highway, I gave it full throttle. The car was doing about 20mph before flooring it, so it was in 2nd gear. Well, the right rear lifted a little and when I finished my turn at about 45mph, the right rear wheel was bouncing like crazy!! I stopped at the light in about 1/4 mile and everything was alright since.

So could you have locked up a CV joint? I seriously doubt you have a problem with the rack. Even if the noise comes back, I would look at a loose/worn CV.

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My name is Klaus and I am a V♂lv♂holic

I did have it in for a rotation/balance yesterday and told the shop about the noise. They thought it could be CV joint related but after inspection they said everything seemed fine as far as they could tell without doing a test drive.

The other thing that made me think it was the rack is that after completing the 90 degree left turn and parking the car, I could still hear a noise and feel a vibration in the steering wheel with the engine running and the car parked. The noise got louder as I turned the wheel slightly to the left or right -- again with the car parked and the engine running.

I turned off the engine and then returned to the car an hour later to drive home. It started and ran fine with no issues but I did drive it home conservatively so I wouldn't have a problem.

Don't forget to check the PS fluid level.

You might also have a weak, broken engine mount under the crank end of the engine (front).
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My name is Klaus and I am a V♂lv♂holic

I agree with Klaus. Sounds like the lower front (passenger side) motor mount. Just been through it with my 855.

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95 855 GLT Sportwagon 215k, 90 244 DL 300k - after 10 years has a new home

I did replace the passanger side motor mount last year after the belt touched the frame when I hit a dip in the road at high speed. I also replaced the firewall motor mount at the top back of the engine. Is there another motor mount to look for?

I did check the PS fluid and it is low. The plastic reservoir seems to be collecting PS fluid on the outside making me think it may be cracked. I am going to replace it first. Is there a special fluid required for the V70?

You may use ATF or generic PS fluid in the 2000. A low fluid level will cause the pump to make noise and the vibration can be felt in the steering wheel.

Clean the reservior with a paper towel after filling, then use the PS for a while and check for the exact leak spot with a fresh white paper towel.

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My name is Klaus and I am a V♂lv♂holic

Check out where the PS return hose (rubber) connects to the PS fluid reservoir. I've seen a 2003 V70 leak at that hose and 240's as well. It is more likely the hose than the reservoir.

Don't think there are any special fluid requirements for your car. Klaus would know better. A couple of years ago my 855 had a slow leak at the rack seals. I flushed it using the turkey baster method and replaced the fluid with Mobil 1 synthetic ATF. It leaked worse at first but within a few months the leak dried up and never returned....:)

Rack is still going strong at almost 220k. Fingers crossed!

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95 855 GLT Sportwagon 216k, 90 244 DL 300k - after 11 years has a new home