If your Volvo previously drove smoothly over bumps and turns and is now rough, shaky or unstable, it could be due to worn out front struts. Front struts are parts of the suspension system of your Volvo that link the wheels to the chassis and help in offering a comfortable and safe ride through the absorption of shocks. There are two front struts on each side and each strut is made up of a shock absorber, a coil spring and other parts that hold them in place. The shock absorber reduces the force coming from the road and the coil spring ensures that the car sits at the correct height and is balanced. Together, they maintain the stability of your Volvo during maneuvering, braking or while driving over irregular surfaces.
When the front struts are worn out, they are no longer able to perform the shock absorption function as they were initially designed to do. This results in a bumpy ride, increased body movement in corners, and even compromises the safety of the vehicle. Understanding the signs that indicate that your front struts need replacing and hiring the right people for this job will ensure that your Volvo performs optimally and does not need frequent repairs.
How to Tell That Your Volvo Has Worn-out Front Struts
- Excessive Bouncing and Rough Ride: If your car has become rough and bumpy even on a good road then it is highly probable that your struts are not controlling the shock absorbers well. When struts are worn, they can no longer absorb the impacts of the road and as such, every bump and pothole is felt.
- Clunking or Knocking Sounds: If your strut is either loose or worn out, then you’ll hear some knocking or clunking sounds especially when you are driving over bumps or any rough surface. This usually occurs when the internal component wears out or the strut mount gets damaged.
- Car Dips Forward When Braking: If the front of your Volvo leans forward or nose-dives when braking, it may be an indication that the struts are not strong enough to support the weight. This will reduce the car’s ability to stop and make the brakes less responsive to your command.
- Tire Wear and Tear: Worn out struts can lead to improper alignment of the suspension system and this can lead to excessive and uneven wearing of tires. If you observe that one side of the tires is worn out more than the other, it may be due to the suspension system, which includes the front struts.
- Leakages from the Struts: The Struts are hydraulic and they hold hydraulic fluids in them to aid in shock absorption. If oil is dripping from the front struts then this is a clear indication that the internal seals have worn out and can no longer operate efficiently.
- Excessive Leaning or Swaying During Turns: An excessive lean is a clear sign that the front struts of your Volvo are not offering adequate support when cornering. This can make the vehicle unsteady or even become dangerous to drive.
What Happens During a Volvo Front Strut Repair?
A certified technician will examine your struts, mounts and suspension parts, in order to identify if the struts are worn, leaking or damaged. If struts are too worn out or if they are leaking fluid, then they will have to be replaced. After the replacement of the struts, you need to balance the suspension and the steering of your Volvo with a wheel alignment. This repair should be done by qualified mechanics to ensure the car runs smoothly and safely and to also increase the lifespan of the suspension systems.
Where To Get Professional Volvo Front Strut Repair
When it comes to Volvo front strut repair, you need to be sure that you are in the hands of a mechanic who understands the car’s design. At Royalty Auto Service, we are capable of performing a wide range of Volvo suspension services such as front strut replacement, alignment, and suspension inspection. We have been the preferred auto repair shop in the area due to our skilled technicians who have worked on Volvo suspension, our ability to diagnose suspension issues accurately and our policy of delivering honest and affordable services. Our experts also ensure quality parts are used.
We have two workshops in St. Marys and Kingsland, GA and we are honored to serve the King Bay Base, Woodbine, Amelia Island, Brunswick, Yulee and other nearby communities. If you are experiencing a bumpy ride, bad tread on your tires or a steering problem with your Volvo, then it is high time you brought your car for front strut check. Call us now!
* Volvo S60 Car image credit goes to: Andrii Baidak.