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!
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