Ways to Fix Tie Rod Failure in Your Volvo
by europewpadmin February 28, 2020As a Volvo owner, you know that the brand is synonymous for dependability, safety, and performance handling. A properly-maintained Volvo will handle like a dream for years and years, minimizing your chance of an accident and making sure you arrive alive. This is why Volvo lovers return to the brand repeatedly. However, all mechanical components of any vehicle are subject to wear and tear, damages, and occasional malfunctions. One possible steering problem you may experience with your Volvo is failure of the tie rod. In this article, we will discuss the function of the tie rod, what can go wrong with it, and what you can do to fix it.
What is a Tie Rod?
A tie rod connects the wheels in the front of the car to the power steering column. They allow your wheels to turn when you turn, which means they are essential to the function of any vehicle. Multiple tie rods connect with each other at tangential angles, distributing the turning motion of the steering wheel and transferring it to a push and pull on the front wheels.
Tie rods wear out over time, as do any car part. Metals can corrode and connections can wear down due to friction. Excessive vibration from driving on bad roads will cause the wear of your Volvo’s tie rods to accelerate. Also, if you get into an accident or even if you hit a curb, your tie rods could be damaged, leading to potentially-dangerous problems with steering and handling. Although not all tie rod issues will affect your ability to steer your vehicle, they will invariably affect your driving experience. With failing tie rods, you will feel like you’re driving a dune buggy instead of a fine European automobile.
Signs of Tie Rod Failure
These are the more common signs of tie rod failure to watch out for:
Wheel Misalignment
A misalignment in your vehicle’s wheels is usually easy to spot, but it depends on how far off it is. You might not notice it at first but over time, if left unchecked, the alignment will be so bad that your wheels will point to one or the other direction while your steering wheel is positioned straight. You would also notice that your car drifts to the right or left when driving on a level surface.
Shaky or Loose Steering Wheel
If the steering wheel shakes or vibrates abnormally while you drive, this should be a sure indication to you that your tie rods are failing. It’s time to take your Volvo to a qualified technician if you notice this.
Uneven Tire Wear
If you think you might have a tie rod problem, look at the tread on your tires. They should be worn around the center of the rotational axis of the wheel. If the tread wear is distributed off-center, then you likely have a tie rod problem that is causing a misalignment.
Steering Noises
Any time that you hear grinding or creaking noises when you steer, it should be of immediate concern to you. It could be that the end of the tie rod is worn out and near breaking or that the connections need to be lubricated. Either way, the tie rods will need to be replaced sooner rather than later.
Abnormal Steering Sensations
If you hear any noises or feel any strange shifting sensations when steering, it could only be a matter of days before the joints of your tie rods wear out to the point of breaking. If the tie rods become separated while you are driving, it will cause your steering to fail, rendering your vehicle undrivable and unsafe.
All of the above signs and symptoms indicate a potentially-dangerous tie rod failure. This needs to be addressed by a professional mechanic immediately.
European Auto Tech Can Help
At European Auto Tech, our 
team of professional technicians are always at the top of their game. We have been servicing European automobiles for over 18 years. Our top-rated service center attracts Volvo owners from all over Allen, Dallas, Flower Mound, Frisco, Highland Park, McKinney, Park Cities, Richardson, Southlake, University Park, and Plano, TX. Our work speaks for itself, so we offer a 12-month/12,000 mile warranty on most parts and service. The friendly staff here at European Auto Tech can answer any questions you might have. Come and see us, or call (469)-429-9992 to schedule an appointment today.