Volvo Repair: front end noise on 2000 volvo v70, strut bearings, volvo v70

Question
Hello,
I have a 2000 V70 wagon with 78k that I purchased two months ago.  A noise(s) has developed in the front typically when driving down side streets (low speed and the usual bumps).  I describe the noise as a creak or groan (sorta like the noise a older couch makes when sitting down or getting up from it).  The sounds appear to be coming from the front tire area on both sides.  It is not a loud sound or grating (no metal on metal), but noticeable.  It doesn't seem to make a difference when turning or driving straight.  No difference when car is warm or cold, neither.
Thanks for your thoughts.

Answer
Your problem is one of 2 components, the spring seat or strut bearings.  They'll typically make a clicking, groaning, clunking noise when the bearing wears out or the seat begins to crack.  you have to remove the strut and disassemble it to replace both thats why we usually recommend both at the same time.  Probably about $200 per side and 2 hours of labor time per side.  It can get kinda expensive.  Thats the only thing I can think of that would make a groaning sound. There are way more causes for clunking noises.

James