When your Volvo’s suspension system is damaged, you may experience a bumpy ride or notice that one side of your vehicle is lower than the others. While these are the foremost symptoms you will notice with a faulty suspension, some other symptoms may begin to set in if the problem is left unaddressed.
It is important to understand what the suspension does to understand the issue better. The suspension system includes your tires, shocks, and struts. It is in charge of keeping your car on the road and maintaining a comfortable ride. There are several causes for this damage, with wear and tear being the major reason for suspension failure.
How to Detect Suspension Issues in Your Volvo
Regardless of the build quality, vehicle components begin to wear down after an extended period of use. However, a damaged suspension system has obvious telltale signs to notify the driver of a problem and need for service:
- Bumpy rides: The first indicator of a faulty suspension is reduced ride quality. The suspension shock was designed to absorb the surface impacts to ensure a smooth ride. A worn strut cannot absorb surface impacts, resulting in bumpy rides. The worn strut is usually due to old age or bad driving habits. Replacing the damaged suspension shock should rectify the issue.
- Low sitting suspension: Besides absorbing surface impacts, the suspension system also supports the vehicle’s weight. When the suspension system fails, you will notice that the side with the faulty suspension may sit lower than the other sides.
- Uneven tire treads: We always recommend regular tire inspection as part of preventative maintenance. While the tire tread is expected to wear down after an extended period of use, uneven tread wear indicates an issue with your vehicle suspension. It is usually because the shock isn’t holding the car uniformly, putting inconsistent pressure on the tires.
- Drifting or pulling during turns: You may begin to notice more serious symptoms over time. After taking turns, your vehicle may begin drifting or pulling to one side. This is usually because the shocks aren’t keeping the car body steady against the force of a turn, raising the risk of a rollover.
- Oily or damaged shocks: Look at the shocks anytime you inspect your tires. If they appear greasy or oily, they are most likely leaking fluid, meaning they are not functioning well. You want a professional to take a closer examination for proper diagnosis.
Common Causes Of Suspension Issues
- Failed ball joints: Ball joints are similar to the ankle and hip joints. They provide a smooth ride while also assisting in steering the vehicle. When a ball joint starts to fail, you’ll observe rapid tire wear on the affected wheel. A complete failure of a ball joint can cause your car to lose control.
- Failed tie-rods: Tie-rods are attached to your Volvo’s steering rack. The tie-rods push and pull to turn the wheels as you turn the steering wheel. A damaged tie-rod will react similarly to a broken ball joint. The most significant distinction between a failing tie-rod and a defective ball joint is that losing a tie-rod while driving can be disastrous. There will be no way to steer your vehicle.
- Broken spring or strut: Your Volvo’s broken springs will give you a bumpy ride because they help support the vehicle’s weight. When the spring fails, you will notice a low riding suspension. Failure to replace a broken spring can damage the tire because the vehicle weight will be on the tire and could cause a sudden blowout.
Manfred’s Import Auto is the Right Solution
If you live in Cary, IL, and you have a damaged Volvo 
suspension system, Manfred’s Import Auto is here to help. We take pride in providing complete maintenance and repairs for European vehicles, including Volvos, BMW, Audi, Land Rover, Mercedes, and Porsche.
Our mechanics have decades of experience working on Volvo vehicles and utilize the latest factory-grade tools and equipment to ensure quality service delivery. We service drivers in Cary, IL, and surrounding areas of Barrington, Crystal Lake, Fox River Grove, Lake Forest, Lake, and Zurich. Call or visit our shop today to schedule an appointment with one of our experts!
Recent Comments