Volvos are incredibly reliable vehicles, but one problem they may experience over time is issues with the steering column. As its name suggests, the steering column is home to much of your vehicle’s steering system. Below you will learn when you should replace the steering column in your Volvo.

What is a steering column?

The steering column in your Volvo is an automotive steering device designed to connect the steering wheel to the steering mechanism.

The Volvo’s steering column also has many secondary functions, such as providing energy dissipation in the event of a front-end motor vehicle accident. Additionally, you can adjust both the height and length of the steering column for driver preference and comfort.

The steering column houses many components, including:

• Multifunction switch
• Column lock
• Column wiring
• Column shroud
• Transmission gear selector

Common Warning Signs of Steering Column Issues

Over time, the steering column within your Volvo may experience failures or malfunctions. This is due to a number of reasons including normal wear or damage from rough use or front-end damage. There are many symptoms that can alert you to an issue. Listed below are the most common symptoms to look out for.

Strange sounds while driving

When driving, especially when making sharp turns, you may hear odd noises coming from your vehicle, specifically the area right in front of the driver. These include clanking, grinding, or squealing sounds.

Off-centered steering wheel

When the wheels of your vehicle are straight, your steering wheel should appear centered. When making a turn, your vehicle should turn easily with the motion — however, when there is a problem with the steering column, the steering wheel will not return to a centered position.

Rough handling

An impaired steering column may result in rough handling of your Volvo. You may notice resistance within the steering wheel or harsh vibrations while making turns.

Steering wheel tilt malfunction

Most of the newer model Volvos are equipped with power steering. This allows for your steering wheel to tilt to your preference and comfort. A damaged steering column may result in steering wheel tilt malfunction, which is easily missed among drivers as this function is not commonly used every day.

The steering wheel is hard to turn

While this may not immediately hinder the ability to drive your Volvo, it can become problematic if left untreated.

Masters European and Japanese Auto Repair

At Masters European and Japanese Auto Repair, we have been helping drivers in and near Mill Valley, Corte Madera, Larkspur, Sausalito, and Tiburon, CA, since 1978.

Our auto repair shop is family-owned and operated by Keith Terstegge, who inherited the business from his father, Jim who ran it for 40 years. Keith has always been a car fanatic. He began working at Masters at age 9 and has been there since graduating from the University of Alaska.

Now more than ever, drivers are making the switch to European and Japanese vehicles because of their performance, high safety standards, and interior comfort. When you opt for a reliable vehicle, you need an auto repair shop to match. At Masters European and Japanese Auto Repair, we understand the importance of quality repairs as well as impeccable customer service.

We service European vehicles such as Audi, BMW, Jaguar, Land Rover, Mercedes Benz, Mini, Porsche, Volkswagen, and Volvo. We also service Japanese vehicles including Acura, Honda, Infiniti, Lexus, Mitsubishi, Nissan, Subaru, and Toyota.

Our team offers many services, such as a/c repair, brake repairs, check engine light services, clutch repair, factory scheduled maintenance, oil changes, oil leak repairs, shock repairs, suspension repair, transmission repairs, and more.

Our highly trained mechanics specialize in both European and Japanese auto repairs and services. By focusing on specific brands, we are able to stay up to date on all of the latest recommendations.

It is important to keep up with regularly scheduled maintenance and vehicle inspections to keep you on the road and out of the repair shop. We understand damage can occur at any time and come with quite a bit of frustration, which is why we pride ourselves in our impeccable customer service.

Call today to schedule an appointment with Masters European and Japanese Auto Repair.