6 Reasons for Steering Issues In Your Volvo on the Roads of Decatur
Steering issues are a pain. They can make driving difficult, and significant problems can be incredibly costly for the owner. Volvo’s are reliable cars, but even they aren’t invulnerable to common issues, like steering problems.
Volvo’s are European, so you want to ensure that the work performed on your car is by mechanics who both know your car and are trustworthy technicians.
Let’s take a look at some of the symptoms and causes of steering issues, as well as one of the best shops in the area to take care of your car.
Power Steering Fluid Issues
The upside to issues regarding steering fluid is that they can be relatively easy to check and maintain. Checking the level of steering fluid is very much like checking the oil of your Volvo. If the fluid is low, the issue can be fixed as quickly as purchasing some steering fluid and filling it up.
Drivers have to keep an eye out for leaks and make sure that the consistency of the steering fluid isn’t thick and congealed, as that would mean that the fluid is too old and needs to be replaced.
Damaged Rims and Tires
Bald tires can cause a noticeable difference in steering ability. The loss of traction, especially evident in areas with hills or heavy rain, can make it incredibly dangerous. It can also make sharper turns dangerous.
Damaged rims also pose a risk, leaving them potentially loose and affecting the stability of the drive. Damaged rims also possess the ability to fall off while driving, posing a threat to both the driver of the Volvo and anyone else on the road.
Steering Belt
The steering belt is an integral part of the steering process. As time goes on, the belt will be worn out or potentially become damaged through regular use. Symptoms that the belt may require replacement is when it becomes difficult to steer, or the Volvo feels as if it’s being tugged on while driving. This resistance can be dangerous, limiting the Volvo’s movement, posing a danger to both the driver and anyone else who may be on the road. It’s possible that the belt can be tightened, but often, a full replacement is necessary.
Damaged Steering Column
A damaged steering column is one that is quite noticeable, as your Volvo will give both physical and auditory clues that it’s in need of being fixed. When the wheel is turned, there will be some resistance and an audible grinding noise during sharp turns. The resistance can make the driving dangerous, potentially causing more damage to the Volvo if not correctly cared for.
Poor Alignment
Poor alignment is one of the easier symptoms to notice when behind the wheel. When the Volvo is pulling left or right when driving, there is an issue with the alignment. An alignment issue is most often caused by a sudden impact, such as moving too quickly over speed bumps or hitting a pothole. Fortunately, alignments are also relatively easy and inexpensive fixes.
Worn or Damaged Suspension
The suspension is meant to keep a car under control, making it an essential part of steering stability. Much like alignment, the suspension is worn and damaged by sudden impacts, like when the Volvo suddenly runs over a pothole or a curb.
The best method to avoid suspension issues is to be wary of obstructions in the road and taking corners, speedbumps, and other obstacles slowly, but even then, there’s a chance that suspension will wear over time. If you notice suspension problems in your Volvo, be sure to seek out a professional mechanic.
What Munich West Can Do to Help
Munch West specializes not 
only in Volvo but in a variety of European models. Opening our doors in 1976, we’re now one of Atlanta’s leading European auto repair shops and a pillar amongst Decatur. Our services are not only in addressing steering issues but in a variety of problems facing European vehicles. We seek to get you both the best deal and top quality service alongside our talented technicians and friendly staff.
We are located just northeast of Atlanta, GA, so our location is easily accessed by the surrounding communities. We hope that if you happen to find yourself facing an issue with your Volvo, you’d allow Munch West to help you with the problem. Call us today to talk to our friendly staff for an appointment.
* Volvo Steering image credit goes to: huettenhoelscher.
