You may be wondering what a tie rod does in your Volvo, and how it might end up failing. Well, tie rods are important components that link the steering rack to the wheels of your car so that you can steer in the direction that you want, as well as provide stability and safety. If your Volvo’s steering lacks precision, you hear thumping noises when you turn the wheel, or you notice your tires are wearing unevenly, then it is very likely that your tie rods are failing.

When the tie rods are worn out or completely damaged, the steering becomes unstable, and this increases the chances of causing an accident. In the worst-case scenario, a broken tie rod can cause the front wheels to become out of alignment suddenly, making driving very unsafe.

What Causes Tie Rod Failure in Volvo Vehicles?

• Wear and Tear: Since tie rods are in constant use every time you turn the steering wheel, they are bound to wear out at some point in time. The ball joints and sockets in the tie rods wear out because of the constant motion, friction, and road vibrations. Though Volvos are designed for longevity, no tie rod is exempt from wearing out eventually. It is practically impossible for tie rods to last indefinitely, especially when the vehicle is driven on bumpy roads or needs to make sharp turns.
• Lack of Lubrication: Tie rods are lubricated so that their internal parts can move efficiently and without friction. If lubrication dries up or drains out due to damage to the protective boot, the metal components of the tie rod begin to wear out faster when they come into contact with each other.
• Rough or Bumpy Surfaces: Driving over potholes or on rocky terrains can stress the tie rods. These impacts exert pressure on the tie rods and may lead to bending, weakening, or loosening of the rods. Tie rod failure is more likely to happen to Volvo drivers who often deal with bumpy roads than those who drive on smooth roads.
• Rust and Corrosion: The presence of moisture, road salt, and extreme weather conditions can lead to the formation of rust on the tie rods. When rust starts to form, it compromises the strength of the metal and the tie rod can break or crack when under pressure. This is particularly prevalent in regions that experience winter and where sodium chloride is used to melt the ice.

Steps to Repair a Worn-out Tie Rod in Your Volvo

• Check Out Tie Rod Condition: If you think a bad tie rod might be the problem, the first thing to do is to inspect the tie rod. A mechanic will inspect the tie rod ends to see whether they move too much, listen for noises when turning the steering wheel, and assess the condition of the components to see if they are cracked, rusty, or leaking. They might also inspect your wheels to see whether they are misaligned, as misaligned wheels might also point to tie rod issues.
• Tie Rod Replacement: During the course of an inspection, if there is any indication that the tie rod is bad or worn out, it should be replaced. Replacing a tie rod entails removing the bad tie rod and replacing it with a new one that is compatible with your Volvo.
• Balancing the Wheels after Replacement: After replacing the tie rod, a wheel alignment is required to ensure that the steering is brought back to normal, and to avoid irregular wear on the tires. If your wheels are not properly aligned, the car may pull towards a given direction and your tires will develop a faster wear on the outer edges. Alignment will help to ensure that your Volvo will not only handle well, but also be safe to drive.

Visit Rowlett Motorwerks For Quality Volvo Steering Repair Services

Do you have steering issues or suspect a problem with the tie rod of your Volvo? Here at Rowlett Motorwerks, we are the best auto service center for suspension and steering system repair for Volvo and other European cars. Our experienced mechanics are able to assess any problems with the tie rod of your Volvo, replace the worn out parts, and even offer alignment services to ensure your car is handling as it should.

We have been working with Rowlett, TX and other nearby communities, including Rockwall, Garland, Sachse, and Wylie, for several years, offering the highest quality service and repair. What are you waiting for? Get in touch with us for an appointment and get back on the road assured that the steering of your Volvo is in good working condition.