brickboard FAQ section:

"Fatigue Failure in Front Crossmembers.
[Technical Note from UK Volvo Club, 700 Section] I have also been advised that there have been more than a few cases of Volvo 700/900's generating hairline cracks in the front crossmember, right next to the part where the lower suspension arm bolts on. These often go undetected because of dirt and in any case the paint has to be cleaned off to spot them for sure.
[Rowan Mideke] My 85 745 developed some front end problems including no control in reverse, leaving black marks on concrete just from tire scrub, hideous popping noises on the highway, and excessive outer edge tire wear. I noticed some small fractures at the inner control arm mounts. It didn't look too serious, but that metal is not as tough as I would have hoped. Six months later, it's scary to drive; the crossmember is nearly ripped in half. It so happens that 1983-1986 cars suffer from cross member fatigue cracking at both the control arm and frame mount bolt holes that can lead to complete failure of the cross member and front suspension collapse. The later, redesigned cross member is a direct bolt-in replacement. If you have an earlier vintage Volvo, inspect this component on a regular basis."


Is this a problem on the 240's. Anyone have an experience. I bent my front crossmember this year and have been driving the car this past week. The steering is actually a little better than it was right after the accident. Wondering if the crossmember could fail. I better check it out soon.