Driver’s side shock absorber in rear was shot; car would bounce up and down easily. Old shocks shown here; you can see the one is completely collapsed and useless. The other was weak and ready to fail.
Replaced shocks and upper mounts. Noise/ride is much improved. Considering how low this car is, I was surprised to find the lower end can be done without lifting the car. Upper end is not hard, just a few panels to remove to get to the mounts.
Struts (combination shock absorber and coil spring) on front are even more important but were recently replaced by previous owner so we don’t have to worry about those.
Shocks 2x $69.64, Mounts 2x $15.16
Update 1/28/14: For reference, the upper shock mounts are located behind the rear seats in sedans. Fold the seats down and remove fasteners to pull carpeted covers away.
Right side shock mount on sedan located behind rear seat near fuel pump.
Left side shock mount on sedan located behind rear seat under cover.
1997 Volvo 850 Wagon Project 