When you drive a Volvo, you believe in the long-standing Swedish tradition of engineering, safety, and performance. However, no vehicle is immune to wear and tear, and one of the most critical yet often overlooked components that can dramatically affect your Volvo’s steering and safety is the Tie-Rod.

At Rowlett Motorwerks, located in Rowlett, Texas, we specialize in European vehicles, including Volvos, and have seen firsthand the impact a failed tie rod can have on a car’s handling. This blog offers you a comprehensive guide on tie rods, why they matter, what failure looks like, and why prompt attention is critical.

What is A Tie Rod in A Volvo

The tie rod is a crucial part of the steering mechanism in your Volvo. It connects the steering gear (rack and pinion or steering box) to the steering knuckle on each front wheel. When you turn the steering wheel, the tie rod is responsible for transferring that motion so that your wheels respond accordingly.

A Volvo has inner and outer tie rod ends working together to maintain wheel alignment and smooth handling. These components enable your vehicle to pivot accurately, ensuring that each turn is executed safely and efficiently. The tie rod plays a central role because of:

Steering Accuracy

Without a functional tie rod, your wheels would not respond correctly to steering input. This could lead to drifting, delayed responses, or complete loss of steering control.

Wheel Alignment Maintenance

Tie rods help maintain proper toe alignment. Misalignment increases tire wear and decreases fuel efficiency.

Suspension Harmony

They work in tandem with the suspension system, absorbing some of the road’s impact and ensuring a smoother ride.

At Rowlett Motorwerks, we routinely inspect the condition of tie rods as part of our preventive maintenance services for Volvo owners in Rowlett, Garland, Sachse, Rockwall, and surrounding Texas communities.

How Does a Tie Rod Fail

Tie rod failure can stem from several sources, many of which are due to wear over time or environmental conditions.

General Wear and Tear

The tie rod end contains ball-and-socket joints, which wear out over time. As grease leaks and dust accumulate, the joints loosen and degrade.

Poor Road Conditions

Potholes, gravel roads, and curbs can damage or bend tie rods prematurely.

Corrosion and Rust

Texas humidity and road salt can accelerate rusting, especially if the protective boot gets torn.

Improper Lubrication

Dry tie rods wear more quickly than lubricated ones. A lack of grease or lubrication can be the reason for metal-on-metal friction.

Those signs often start subtly, and without early detection, failure could lead to steering instability or even a complete loss of control, especially on the highways when Volvos run at their more than optimal speed.

How Does Tie Rod Failure Affect Volvo Handling?

The impact of a failed or failing tie rod on a Volvo’s handling is immediate and concerning. Here’s how it manifests:

• Loose Steering Wheel: You may notice increased play in the steering wheel, meaning it turns more than usual before the wheels respond.
• Vehicle Pulling to One Side: Due to misalignment, your Volvo may drift or pull towards one side even when you are trying to drive straight.
• Vibration or Shaking: If you feel vibrations while turning the vehicle, it is a clear indication of a failing tie rod.
• Uneven Tire Wear: Misalignment from a bad tie rod can cause the tires to wear unevenly or prematurely.
• Steering Noise: Knocking or clunking sounds when turning are often caused by a deteriorated tie rod end.

Why Choose Rowlett Motorwerks for Your Volvo’s Tie Rod Services

When it comes to European auto repair in the Rowlett, TX area, Rowlett Motorwerks stands out as the most trusted and qualified service center. Here’s why Volvo owners across Rowlett, Garland, Rockwall, and Sachse consistently choose us.

Our team is trained and ASE-certified to handle all European makes and models, especially the Volvo. We stand by our work with an industry-leading guarantee of a 3-year/36,000-mile Nationwide warranty on any service for our customers’ peace of mind. You do not need to wait around. We will get you where you need to go while we work on your car through our complimentary shuttle service. Enjoy fresh coffee, free Wi-Fi, and a relaxing space at our comfortable waiting lounge while we care for your vehicle. We use manufacturer-level diagnostic tools to ensure accurate repairs and alignments. We believe in honesty, transparency, and treating every Volvo as if it were our own.

With decades of combined experience and a passion for excellence, Rowlett Motorwerks is proud to serve Volvo owners throughout Rowlett and the surrounding Dallas-Fort Worth area. If you suspect any issues with your steering, don’t take the risk. Visit Rowlett Motorwerks today, the most trusted European auto repair shop in Rowlett, Texas. Whether you are coming from Garland, Rockwall, or Sachse, our team is ready to deliver dealership-quality service without the dealership price tag.