A creaking, clunking, or popping noise from the front suspension — especially when turning the steering wheel at low speed or going over bumps — is one of the most frequently reported issues across all Polestar 2 model years. The culprit is almost always the upper strut mount bearing.
Symptoms
- Creaking or groaning when turning the steering wheel, particularly at low speeds or when stationary
- Clunking or popping over speed bumps, potholes, or uneven surfaces
- Noise is typically more pronounced in cold weather
- Usually starts on one side but often develops on both
- Can sound like it's coming from directly under the dashboard/windshield area
What Causes It
The upper strut mount bearing sits on top of the front strut assembly and allows the strut to rotate as you steer. On the Polestar 2 (and the related Volvo XC40/C40 platform), this bearing is prone to premature wear and corrosion, leading to the characteristic creaking and clunking sounds.
The issue is exacerbated by road salt, moisture, and cold temperatures — which is why it's particularly common in northern climates.
The TSB and Updated Part
Polestar acknowledged the issue and issued a Technical Journal directing service centers to address it:
- Original situation: Service centers were replacing the bearing with the same original part, and the noise would return within months.
- Polestar's response: In early 2024, Polestar notified service centers that an updated upper strut bearing was in development and to hold off on like-for-like replacements.
- Updated part released: The revised bearing was released around 2024 week 20 (mid-May 2024). This redesigned part addresses the premature wear issue.
- Warranty labor codes: VST Operation numbers 76138-2 or 76140-2.
What to Do
- 1.If you hear creaking or clunking from the front, have the strut mount bearings inspected at a Polestar or Volvo service center.
- 2.Insist on the updated part. If your service center proposes a replacement, confirm they're using the revised bearing, not the original spec. The old part will fail again.
- 3.Temporary relief: Some owners have reported that applying lithium grease to the bearing area provides temporary noise reduction, but this is not a permanent fix.
Parts
The Polestar 2 shares the CMA platform with the Volvo XC40 Recharge and C40 Recharge, and the strut mount bearing is a shared part — this improves aftermarket availability and keeps pricing reasonable compared to Polestar-exclusive components.
| Part Number | Description |
|---|---|
| 32294048 | Original bearing — do not use for replacement |
| 32395175 | Updated revised bearing (correct replacement part) |
| Febi Bilstein 30841 | Aftermarket equivalent for 32395175; also fits certain Porsche and Volvo models |
| 32269719 | Complete strut top mount assembly (use if the full mount needs replacing, not just the bearing) |
| 30622628 | Volvo multi-purpose clip — useful to have on hand during strut and trim panel removal |
Cost
The repair has generally been covered under warranty. Out-of-warranty, the parts themselves are relatively inexpensive — the Febi Bilstein bearing is typically under $50 per side — but the labor involves compressing and removing the front struts, so expect 1.5–2 hours per side at a shop.
Which Model Years Are Affected
All model years (2021–2025) can develop this issue, as the bearing design was the same across production until the 2024 revision. Cars built after approximately mid-2024 should have the updated bearing from the factory.