Category: Volvo Repair

Expert Tips For Detecting And Preventing Volvo Tie Rod Failures In Los Angeles

Posted on April 4, 2024 by Gary Kasbarian - Volvo Repair

Volvo cars are reliable and safe to ride… no one is arguing this. But at the end of the day they are just machines and susceptible to wear and tear. Today’s blog post is about a commonly reported Volvo problem- tie rod failure. So what can cause a tie rod to act up and how may its failure impact a vehicle’s handling? These are among the topics that we have covered in this article. Let’s start with the basics.

So, What Exactly Is A Tie Rod & What Does It Do?

To put it briefly, a tie rod is an important part of a vehicle’s steering mechanism- entrusted with the task of conveying steering motion to the steering knuckle and ultimately to the wheel. In short- it is because of this component you get to steer your Volvo in your desired direction. The pair of tie rods in your Volvo also play a crucial role in absorbing road shocks and vibration.

As with any other parts of your Volvo, tie rods can wear out over time. Damaged tie rods can have an adverse impact on your vehicle’s handling and maneuverability. Read through to find out some of the early warnings of tie rod failure in Volvo cars.

Signs To Look For

Watch for the following signs if you suspect tie rod failure in your Volvo;

#1- Difficulty steering

Have you been struggling to steer your Volvo in the right direction? As we have already discussed, tie rods play a crucial role in transmitting steering motion to the knuckles so that wheels can pivot in a specific direction. If one of these tie rods get bent or sustain any other form of physical damages, your vehicle’s steering capability will be significantly reduced.

#2- Unusual noises

If your Volvo is giving off a strange noise as you drive over bumps or potholes, chances are high that your tie rods are worn and in need of repair. So if your car is emanating a clunking, rattling, and clicking noise- especially when driving on a rough terrine, have its tie rods checked by certified professionals. If they are worn, consider replacing them.

#3- Shuddering sensation

In addition to conveying steering motion to the wheels, tie rods dampen vibrations and shuddering sensations resulting from road imperfections. If there is something amiss with your Volvo’s tie rods- not only will you have to deal with different handling issues, but you might also feel shuddering sensation through the steering wheel when driving at high speeds.

#4- Uneven tire wear

Tie rods make sure that front wheels of a vehicle stay properly aligned to each other. A glitch in one of the tie rods can disrupt that alignment; which is something that might result in an array of drivability problems including uneven tire wear. So if your Volvo tires are not wearing evenly, it is important that you have your tie rods checked by certified technicians.

#5- Drifting

This is yet another problem you will notice if there is something off with your Volvo’s steering mechanism- especially with the tie rods. A glitch in the suspension system or braking system can also cause your Volvo to drift out of your intended lane. In any case- if you are struggling to keep your vehicle in your desired lane, reach out to a nearby service center to get the issue diagnosed and fixed.

Preventing Tie Rod Failure

Listed below are a few things that you can do to ensure the upkeep of your Volvo’s tie rods.

#1- Keep wheels properly aligned

Driving with misaligned wheels can take a toll on your Volvo’s tie rod reliability. So if you don’t want your tie rods to wear out prematurely, it is important that you keep its front wheels properly aligned.

#2- Drive carefully

Bad driving habits can contribute to premature tie rods wear in a vehicle. So work on improving your driving skills and be careful while driving on a rough terrain. If it occurs to you that there is something off with your vehicle’s tie rods, seek professional assistance immediately.

Repair Your Volvo’s Defective Tie Rods At Carotech Automotive

Flawed tie rods can contribute to a myriad of handling and maneuverability issues in a vehicle. So, if you are noticing any of the above said signs and suspecting a glitch in your Volvo’s tie rods, please reach out to us at our facility in Los Angeles, CA. Technicians working at Carotech Automotive are ASE-certified and have years of experience in dealing with complicated steering system issues in Volvo cars. Call us and schedule an appointment today!

4 Signs Associated with a Volvo’s Cooling Fan Module Failure

Posted on June 20, 2023 by Gary Kasbarian - Volvo Repair

Do you suspect a failure in your Volvo’s cooling fan? Your Volvo’s cooling fan module is a crucial part of its cooling system, and its main job is to keep the engine at the right temperature by preventing it from overheating. It operates by drawing air through the radiator to dissipate heat and ensure efficient engine performance.

The fan module is typically controlled by a combination of electronic sensors, relays, and motors that work in harmony to adjust the fan speed according to the engine’s cooling needs. This component is very important because it is interconnected with various components within the engine. It collaborates closely with the thermostat, coolant, radiator, and other cooling system elements to maintain the ideal temperature range. When the engine temperature rises beyond the set limit, the thermostat triggers the cooling fan module to engage, allowing it to pull air through the radiator and facilitate heat exchange.

Any malfunction in the cooling fan module can disrupt this delicate equilibrium, leading to issues that can damage other engine components.

Identifying Signs of a Cooling Fan Module Failure

Engine Overheating: One of the most evident signs of failure is engine overheating. If the cooling fan fails to engage or operates at a reduced speed, it will struggle to dissipate the excess heat generated by the engine. This can result in a rapid rise in temperature, causing the engine to overheat and eventually lead to potential damage if not addressed promptly.
Fan Running Constantly: Another way to spot malfunction in the fan module is if it remains in an activated state even after the engine is cold or hasn’t reached the threshold temperature. This could be attributed to a faulty temperature sensor or a wiring issue, which prevents the fan from receiving the correct signals, causing it to run continuously.
Inconsistent Fan Operation: A fan that intermittently operates or runs at inconsistent speeds can signal impending failure. This erratic behavior can occur due to damaged fan blades, faulty relays, or a malfunctioning motor within the module. Such irregular functioning compromises the cooling system’s ability to regulate engine temperature effectively.
Unusual Noise: Faulty fan modules can give out strange noises. These noises often indicate internal damage to the fan’s motor or blades, which may require immediate attention. Additionally, excessive vibration or wobbling during fan operation can signify imbalanced fan blades or a loose connection, pointing toward an impending failure.

Preventing Fan Module Failure

Coolant System Maintenance: Regularly checking the coolant level and quality to ensure it is at the appropriate level and free from contaminants can help extend the life of the fan module.
Monitor Engine Temperature: Keep an eye on the temperature gauge on your dashboard while driving. If you notice any sudden or persistent increase in engine temperature, it could be a sign of a cooling fan module malfunction. Address the issue promptly to prevent further damage.
Protect Against Debris: Ensure that the front grille and radiator area are clear of debris, such as leaves, dirt, or other obstructions. Blocked airflow can hinder the cooling fan’s effectiveness, leading to potential overheating. Regularly clean the radiator and surrounding area to maintain proper airflow.
Be Mindful of Driving Conditions: In extreme weather conditions, such as high temperatures or heavy traffic, the cooling fan module may need to work harder to maintain the engine temperature. Be mindful of these conditions and take necessary precautions, such as avoiding prolonged idling or sparingly using the vehicle’s air conditioning.

How Carotech Automotive Experts Deal with Volvo’s Cooling Fan Module Failure

Now that you are aware of the signs of a failing cooling fan module, you need to take proactive measures to prevent engine overheating through regular maintenance by experts. At Carotech Automotive, we can help you effectively address this issue and keep your Volvo running smoothly. When dealing with cooling fan failure, our experts thoroughly inspect the fan operation, motor functionality, and electrical connections. If any fault is detected, we promptly repair or replace them using genuine Volvo parts.

We are known as the leading auto shop by drivers from Los Angeles, CA, and environs. When you schedule a service appointment with us, you can have peace of mind knowing that experienced professionals are handling the issue. Contact us now or stop by our garage to experience our quality service.

How Does A Slipping Clutch Affect Your Volvo?

Posted on March 14, 2023 by Gary Kasbarian - Volvo Repair

A slipping clutch is a common problem that can occur in any type of vehicle, including Volvos. The clutch is a critical component of the transmission system in a car, responsible for transferring power from the engine to the wheels. When the clutch slips, it means that the power is not being transferred efficiently, resulting in poor acceleration and decreased performance.

Symptoms Of A Slipping Clutch In A Volvo

The clutch is an essential part of your car’s transmission, so when it starts to slip it is going to have some negative effects on the performance of your Volvo. On the bright side, those performance differences can be what lets you know something is wrong.

It is important to know the signs of a slipping clutch in your Volvo so that you can get your car to a skilled mechanic as quickly as possible once the problem starts. With that in mind, we’ve listed some of the most common signs of a slipping clutch below:

Difficulty shifting gears: If the clutch is slipping, you may have trouble shifting gears This may result in grinding or difficulty engaging the clutch.
Poor acceleration: If the clutch is slipping, you may notice a decrease in acceleration or a delay in response when pressing on the accelerator.
Burning smell: If the clutch is slipping, you may notice a burning smell coming from the engine bay. This is caused by the friction between the clutch disk and the flywheel.
Engine revving but no acceleration: If the clutch is slipping, the engine may rev up but the car won’t accelerate as it should. This is a clear sign that the clutch is not engaging properly.

If you suspect that your Volvo’s clutch is slipping, it is important to have it diagnosed and repaired as soon as possible. Driving with a slipping clutch can cause further damage to the transmission system and lead to more expensive repairs down the road. Additionally, a slipping clutch can be dangerous, particularly if it occurs while you are accelerating or attempting to climb a steep hill.

How to Prevent a Slipping Clutch

There are several ways to prevent a slipping clutch in your Volvo. One of the most important is to avoid riding the clutch. This means not keeping your foot on the clutch pedal while driving, as this can cause unnecessary wear and tear on the clutch components. It is also important to avoid sudden starts and stops, as this can put additional stress on the clutch system.

Bring Your Volvo to Carotech Automotive

A slipping clutch is a common problem that can occur in any type of vehicle, including Volvos. Symptoms of a slipping clutch include difficulty shifting gears, poor acceleration, a burning smell, and engine revving without acceleration. To prevent a slipping clutch, avoid riding the clutch and sudden starts and stops. If you suspect a slipping clutch in your Volvo, have it diagnosed and repaired as soon as possible by a qualified mechanic to prevent further damage and ensure your safety on the road.

If you’re dealing with an automotive issue and find yourself living in or around Los Angeles, CA, then look no further than Carotech Automotive. With every technician being ASE certified and having high levels of experience, Carotech has all the necessary expertise needed to diagnose and repair any complication with a car. We are experienced in problems related to clutches, so if that’s the nature of your concern, have peace of mind knowing you have selected the right spot — we really know their stuff. But even more than that, Carotech is committed to providing unbeatable customer service — friendly technicians await your arrival and are always happy to assist. At Carotech Automotive you will be provided with an honest answer or solution for any issue you might experience with your vehicle.

If you’re having trouble with your clutch or think it might be slipping, don’t wait to get it checked out. It’s important that you keep up with Volvo repairs in order to prevent any more costly issues down the road. That’s where we come in; we specialize in all types of repairs, from simple clutch replacements to full transmission overhauls – and everything in between! Our friendly staff has many years of experience troubleshooting and fixing Volvo cars, so come on over to our shop today and let us help get you back on the road quickly and safely. We want our customers to feel confident that their Volvo is reliable and performs well for years to come!

What To Do If You Find Your Volvo With Forced Acceleration?

Posted on September 26, 2022 by Gary Kasbarian - Volvo Repair

Volvo is a durable European automobile that is known for its premium engineering. The vehicle is designed with drivers’ safety in mind and to give car owners the best driving experience on the road. As a Volvo car owner, having total control of your Volvo is important to your safety as you drive on the road, so it can be startling (and terrifying) when your Volvo suddenly accelerates on its own while driving or when trying to come to a halt.

In recent years, there have been multiple incidences of unexpected acceleration in the United States, and while these events are rare, the consequences are often severe. Although the majority of the reported unexpected acceleration incidents haven’t been substantiated, many drivers have reported a loss of braking ability during a forced acceleration.

However, most car makers have put in place measures to prevent unintended acceleration, and when it does occur, it’s typically due to driver mistakes.

What exactly is Sudden Forced Acceleration?

Sudden forced acceleration is a malfunction that occurs when the car increases its acceleration without the driver’s input. This sudden acceleration can be caused by a lot of factors which we’ll mention below.

What Factors Contribute to Acceleration Issues?

In most instances, sudden unintended acceleration is said to happen while the automobile is moving. As previously stated, there has been much debate as to why this might occur; in most investigations, driver error is usually proven to be the reason for this.

The issue arises when a driver steps on the throttle instead of the brakes. By being careful of where you step, you may easily prevent pedal misapplication, which is said to be the common cause of sudden acceleration.

Here are some more things to know about unexpected acceleration:

If you have a cable-operated throttle with cruise control, and the car begins to accelerate as you try to slow down, there might be an issue with your brake input to the cruise control system.
If you accelerate forcefully and discover that your accelerator has been trapped beneath the floor mat, quickly adjust the floor mat.
When using a cable-equipped throttle, the throttle plate can become stuck in the throttle body because of sludge, and the pedal can feel quite firm and unyielding during acceleration. Also, the vehicle may experience uncontrolled acceleration if the car is in reverse when your foot pressure is increased.

What To Do If You Find Your Volvo With Forced Acceleration

Unintentional acceleration is manageable regardless of the source, but you must maintain your calm. When driving and your automobile suddenly speeds out of control, what are you going to do?

Avoid turning off the engine; otherwise you’ll lose steering and brakes, which you need to bring your Volvo to a halt and navigate off the road safely.
Ensure that your foot is on the brake pedal and not throttle— this is the most repeated driver error.
To stop the vehicle from moving forward, switch the transmission to neutral or compress the clutch. Don’t be scared if the engine begins to race, as if it’s about to burst from beneath the hood.
If your brakes fail, use the emergency brake to slow your vehicle down.
As the automobile begins to slow, pull over to the side of the road. Turn off the engine once you’ve brought the car to a safe halt.
Set the parking brake, shift into the park, and get out of the car.

Get Help For Volvo With Forced Acceleration

Your Volvo vehicle should be kept in top condition to avoid forced acceleration when driving. Maintaining your automobile will also help to ensure that you enjoy all of the advantages of having a premium European vehicle like Volvo.

When you bring your vehicle to us at Carotech Automotive, you are sure of getting the best service possible. We serve our clients in Los Angeles, CA, with the highest quality automotive service for Volvo vehicles. Our highly skilled automotive technicians have years of expertise dealing with Volvos, so you can be confident that your car is in capable hands.

If you sense acceleration fumbling in your Volvo, please contact one of our friendly specialists to schedule an inspection or a periodic maintenance plan.

How to Deal with a Suspension Bushing Failure in a Volvo

Posted on July 6, 2022 by Gary Kasbarian - Volvo Repair

If you’re the owner of a Volvo, you may be all too familiar with suspension bushing failures. These suspension components are designed to provide a cushion between the suspension and the body of the car, but they often fail prematurely. If you’re dealing with a suspension bushing failure in your Volvo, there are a few things you can do to mitigate the problem.

Signs of Suspension Bushing Failure

When a suspension bushing fails in a Volvo, it can cause a number of problems. The suspension may become less comfortable, and the car may become less stable. In some cases, the suspension may even fail entirely.

If you suspect that your suspension bushing has failed, take your car to a qualified mechanic as soon as possible. They will be able to diagnose the problem and recommend a course of action. In most cases, the suspension bushing will need to be replaced. However, if the suspension is also damaged, it may need to be repaired or replaced as well. Either way, it is important to have the problem fixed as soon as possible to avoid further damage to your car.

Pulling to one side or the other when braking or accelerating
You spot uneven tire wear on each tire
The tire wear patterns reveal camber wear (inner or outer wear only)
You may hear a clunking noise when accelerating or braking
You may feel the steering is loose when turning corners

Causes of Bushing Failure in your Suspension

All suspensions are going to have suspension bushing. In a perfect world, these bushings would last forever, but they don’t and will eventually need to be replaced. Let’s take a look at a couple of the most common causes of suspension bushing failure:

Age: One of the primary causes of suspension bushing failure is simply age. Over time, the suspension bushing will harden and cracks will develop. This is especially common in older Volvos.
Poor Installation: Another common cause of suspension bushing failure is poor installation. If the suspension bushing is not installed correctly, it can cause problems down the road. This might manifest itself as premature wear or even complete failure of the suspension system.
Neglect of Maintenance: Lastly, suspension bushing can fail if they are not properly maintained. This means that you need to regularly check them for wear and tear and replace them when necessary.

While suspension bushing failures are fairly common, they can be avoided with proper care and maintenance. By staying on top of things, you can avoid a lot of headaches down the road.

The Proper Steps to Take

First, it’s important to understand what causes suspension bushing failures. These components are often made from rubber or polyurethane, which can degrade over time due to heat, UV exposure, and other factors. In addition, suspension bushings are often subject to high stress levels, which can cause them to fail even sooner.

Once you understand the causes of suspension bushing failures, you can take steps to prevent them.

Make sure to have your suspension regularly inspected by a qualified mechanic. This will allow you to identify any potential problems early on and take steps to rectify them.
Additionally, consider upgrading to aftermarket suspension bushings that are designed to withstand higher stress levels and last longer than stock components.

By taking these preventive measures, you can help ensure that your suspension bushings don’t fail prematurely.

Visit Carotech Automotive for Your Volvo’s Suspension Problems

Carotech Automotive offers you the best repair, installation, and maintenance services for your domestic, Asian, and European vehicle! When you need expert auto repair service in Los Angeles, CA, Carotech Automotive is here for you.

We have years of experience repairing and maintaining cars and we always keep up with the latest technology and equipment for car maintenance. Whatever type of auto repair service you may need, we’ve got the skills and experience necessary to keep your car, truck, or SUV running smoothly.

We offer various automotive services including auto diagnostics, auto repair, AC repair, brake repair, engine check light, etc. We have experienced auto repair mechanics who will give you the best auto center services in Los Angeles, CA, so give us a call today!

How to Determine if Your Volvo’s Steering Column is Malfunctioning

Posted on December 17, 2021 by Gary Kasbarian - Volvo Repair

A big part of why you feel safe and confident in your Volvo is because when you turn the steering wheel, it does exactly as your command without hesitation. This allows you to be in full control of where your vehicle goes. This is due to the steering column, or the assembly that connects your steering wheel to what is called the steering gear. The steering gear is connected to the vehicle’s suspension, which points your wheels in the direction you wish to go. If the steering column malfunctions, that confidence will be gone as your Volvo will be harder to handle as well as more unpredictable.

Grinding or Clicking Noise

If you hear a grinding or clicking sound whenever you turn the wheel, it is possible the gears within the steering column mechanism are damaged or broken, or that dirt/debris has gotten into the column and is impeding movement. You are also likely to notice it is harder to steer the car than it used to be.

Steering Wheel Does Not Center

After a turn, the steering wheel normally centers itself. If this fails to happen, it is a sign that the steering column is not working properly.

Vibration of the Steering Wheel

If your steering wheel is vibrating, it might be due to a malfunctioning steering column. Note that this is more often caused by wheels that are out of alignment or worn tie rods in your Volvo’s suspension system. However, you cannot rule out the steering column being the problem when you notice vibrations, especially if it is accompanied by any other signs in this list. Always be sure to inform your mechanic of any and all symptoms you notice so they have plenty of information to go off of when they begin their diagnostic process.

Loose Wheel

If your steering wheel feels loose, the gear mechanism attached to the column might be faulty. Normally the wheel is relatively tight, and you know how hard it is to turn your wheel from experience driving your car. So if suddenly it is looser, suspect the steering column assembly.

Car Wanders

If while driving your Volvo pulls to one side or simply wanders along the road despite you not directing it to via the steering input, the steering gear might be malfunctioning. This is a dangerous scenario that cannot be ignored. You are no longer in control of where the vehicle goes on the road, putting you and others in danger. Be sure to have such an issue inspected immediately and your car towed to a trusted garage. You do not want to risk having an accident and hurting yourself or someone else because of this problem!

Wheel Movement

You might notice the steering wheel slips out of your grip when attempting to turn it or even when just trying to hold it in a steady position. This symptom might be related to failure of the power steering system as well. However, any problem concerning the steering warrants inspection of the steering column in particular.

Carotech Automotive for Your Volvo’s Steering Column Service and Repairs

There are many signs that your Volvo’s steering column is in need of service and/or repairs, as can be clearly seen from the above list. If you notice any of these, you should bring your car to a reputable service center for inspection. However, even if you do not happen to notice anything, it is always a good idea to periodically have your Volvo inspected thoroughly so any issues can be addressed early before they become noticeable or even cause damage to your vehicle.

Carotech Automotive is the go-to shop in Los Angeles for European vehicles, having been in business for over 50 years. Our ASE certified mechanics have decades of experience working with import vehicles, including Volvos. All our work comes with a 24-month/24,000-mile warranty. Carotech Automotive is a AAA approved facility as well!

To schedule an appointment, please contact us at 424-283-4303 or use our online form. Our address is 8687 W. Pico Blvd, Los Angeles CA 90035, and we are open from 8AM to 5:30PM Monday through Friday. We look forward to earning your business.