V70 noise

Our 2001 V70 has for some time been making a whirring/oscillating noise
that seems to be coming from the engine area - it's noticeable at speeds
of 35-55mph but not above. It's hard to describe. It was serviced
recently including a timing belt change (it's done 85k miles) and is
otherwise running very well. Any idea what this is and whether it should
be investigated? And how?

E.

 

Hi there. Check your power steering fluid level. My 2001 V70 does
exactly the same when the fluid level gets even slightly below full.
The pump seems to whine like a good-in. My last model did it too, and
it never seemed to get worse or go wrong. Just make sure the level is
good, and the noise should go away. If this doesn't cure it, check
alternator for worn bearings.
Hope to help.
Joe.

 

Thanks - sounds like it's more likely to be bearings somewhere - isn't the
power steering pump unrelated to road speed?

E.

 

I know that some Auto-transmission cars have a whining noise from the
differential at speeds around 40Mph, but I thought Volvo fixed this on
later models ?