Ever tried to understand why the steering of your Volvo becomes loose or inaccurate sometimes? The most probable cause is the failure of a tiny but extremely significant part – the tie rod. A tie rod is an integral part that links the steering system to the wheels, helping you control your vehicle’s direction. However, how effectively does this part execute its steering function, and what factors impact it most?

Many factors affect the workings of the tie rod, including the material or make of the tie rod, the grease available for the rod, and the shield provided by the suspension or other mechanisms. If any of these elements are rendered ineffective, you cannot transfer your desired steering movements to the wheels through the tie rod. Let’s learn more about how the tie rod is connected to ensure your Volvo does not sway or diverge off the road.

Factors That Affect The Performance Of Tie Rods In Volvo

  • Age: Like all other moving parts of a car, the tie rod end also degrades over time because it experiences constant strain and force. Whenever you twist the steering wheel, the tie rod relays this action to the wheels, and as the wheel is used frequently, it weakens the tie rod. In Volvos that are used daily, this is a normal process of wear and tear, and it severely influences the tie rod.
  • Poor Road Conditions: Rough road surfaces are tough on your car’s suspension and put a lot of pressure on the tie rods. As a Volvo driver, it is common to find your car experiencing some damage in the tie rods because of the vibrations from the potholes, curbs, or rough patches when driving. If you are fortunate to never encounter these road hazards, your Volvo tie rod will last long. However, even the constant pounding from the slightest of uneven roads will compromise the integrity of your Volvo’s tie rod and lead to alignment issues or a loose steering wheel.
  • Exposure to Elements and Corrosion: Tie rods are metallic and can, as such, undergo corrosion. Corrosion is even faster if you live in a place with severe winters and salted roads or if you live in a country with much humidity. Salt and moisture make metal rust, and when rust sets in, the structure of the tie rod will become weaker and will most probably break earlier than expected. The long-term effects of rusting include a stiff or weak tie rod that reduces the level of accuracy in the steering system.
  • Inadequate Lubrication: The joint of the tie rod should always be lubricated to minimize friction and prevent the metallic components from wearing off. If the lubrication has seeped out, the tie rod begins to experience more friction and wear out much faster. Some Volvos have sealed tie rods that don’t need any additional lubrication. Still, if a leak or dirt finds its way to the tie rod, then the lack of lubrication or contaminated lubricant will greatly affect the performance of the tie rod.
  • Heavy Loads and Aggressive Driving: Driving over large bumps, lifting or towing heavy loads, and constantly cornering at high speeds puts more load on the tie rods. This stress may make the tie rod wear out faster than it would if you were just driving around the city, for example. Volvos are built to last; however, any time you overload the car and put stress on it, it will show in the tie rod’s durability.

Come To The Most Sought-After Volvo Repair Shop In Herndon

Awareness of these factors and monitoring Volvo Mechanic Holding Broken Tie Rod any strange signals that may arise can go a long way in preventing foreseeable problems. Our garage at Auto Scandia is well positioned in Herndon, VA, and we have a team of mechanics dedicated to Volvo automobiles. Whether you need help fixing the tie rod problem or just want to inspect your steering and suspension parts, we are here to ensure that your Volvo is always safe on the road and as smooth as it should be. Our professionals have been serving drivers from Herndon, VA, and those from neighboring areas like Falls, Sterling, Chantilly, Reston, Great, and Oakton, VA. Book an appointment with us to guarantee your car gets the quality treatment it needs.

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