The driver side front coil spring on our 2001 Volvo XC70 snapped either while the car was driven into the driveway or while sitting overnight. Backing the car out of the driveway into a dip produced a noise that indicated a serious problem with the front suspension. Upon examining the front suspension I discovered the broken coil spring. The lower portion of the springs powder coat had peeled and the spring had a coating of rust on the lower coil. The broken edges of the spring showed signs of rust penetrating into the interior metal of the spring, suggesting that the spring may have been cracked for some time before failing. Since the spring is very close to the tire there could have been a serious situation if the broken edge of the spring had contacted the tire at high speed. When I examined the unbroken passenger side spring I felt roughness under the powder coating along the lower part of the spring, suggesting that corrosion is also taking place in the same area on that spring. Both front coil springs are going to be replaced. I have the broken spring as well as photos if they can be of any assistance.

- North Easton, MA, USA