When It’s Time to Replace Your Volvo’s Steering Column

Your Volvo is a product of immaculate European engineering! This Swedish vehicle is synonymous with safety and durability. Normally, the steering columns of any modern car are expected to last the lifetime of the car. That said, any car can have problems. If you notice any of the symptoms listed below in this article, please make sure you address the issue immediately, as this is a matter of safety.

The What and Why of a Steering Column

The steering column connects the steering wheel to the steering mechanism. This allows you, the driver, to control your Volvo’s sideways motion or lateral movement. When you turn your steering wheel, the torque (circular force) is transferred from the steering wheel to the steering mechanism, allowing your car to turn. That means it helps you to make your turns, right or left, and also allows you to regulate the straight-ahead motion of your car. You can see why this is an absolutely indispensable component of your Volvo.

Beware of These Problematic Signs

These are typical symptoms of a problematic steering column. However, it would be incorrect to assume all of these symptoms automatically imply a problem with the steering column. Sometimes, there are other complications in your car, SUV, or truck, which may manifest as one of these issues listed below. The only way to be sure of the exact problem is to take it to a professional garage and let them run the diagnostics.

• Unusual Noises: This would probably be the first thing you’d notice. Not all weird noises indicate a steering column issue, but be mindful of where the sound is coming from and when you hear it. While turning your steering wheel, if you hear grinding noises or squeaking, clunking sounds, it might mean that the gears have worn out.
• Too Much Resistance: If you notice the steering wheel is too stiff, and you’re having difficulty turning the steering wheel, or you notice a delayed response while turning, especially at low speed, that could indicate a problem with the steering column.
• Too Loose: On the other hand, if you notice there’s too much play in your Volvo’s steering wheel, that could mean some gears may be worn out.
• Misalignment: When you drive your Volvo, you must have noticed that after you’ve made a turn, the steering wheel automatically returns to the center. If this fails to happen, you should have your steering column checked out by a professional because something is misaligned. Due to misalignment, you may also find it difficult to drive in a straight line.
• Shaking: A compromised steering column may cause shaking, and you’ll feel vibrations in your steering wheel while turning. It may feel like your Volvo isn’t running smoothly or not handling well.
• Problems with Tilting: If you notice your steering wheel tilt mechanism is not responding or not locking as it should, you may want the steering column looked at.

Be Mindful of Safety

• Airbags: It is extremely important to remember the driver’s side airbag is mounted on the steering column. Any problem with the steering column could impact the airbag. You won’t know what the issue is unless you have it checked. Since the airbag resides within the steering column system, it is imperative that you only have a trained professional handle this. Never, ever try to unmount the airbag by yourself—unless you are a trained professional—yourself! This is a safety issue that should not be disregarded.
• Response Time: Also, driving around with a malfunctioning steering column could be very hazardous. Your Volvo will not respond quickly to your input (turning the steering wheel), which could lead to unwanted and dangerous situations.

Visit Us at Fast Lane European Today

If you have any doubts about how well your steering column is handling, please do not hesitate. Bring your Volvo in so that we can take a look at it. We will use modern diagnostic tools and equipment to figure out what the problem is, and we can then repair it for you.

At Fast Lane European in San Jose, California, we have certified and trained technicians who can answer all your questions about your Volvo. Feel free to call us or just stop by. We’re here to help.