Steering Problems of Volvo V50

Volvo V50 owners have reported 3 steering related problems since 1996. Table 1 shows the 1 most common steering problems. The number one most common problem is related to the vehicle's steering (3 problems). For details of each of the problem category, use the links in the table.

Table 1. Steering related problems of Volvo V50

Problem Category Number of Problems
Steering problems
3

Steering problem #1

The contact owns a 2005 Volvo V50. While pulling out of the driveway and making a right turn, there was an abnormal noise coming from the front of the vehicle. The noise recurred periodically. In addition, when driving over a slight bump, the vehicle felt as if the bottom would detach. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where the technician could not find a failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was 82,000.

Steering problem #2

Issue: car would not start and "steering locked, please try again" error message was displayed. The wheel is not locked, I can turn it, but the engine will not start and it keeps on giving me the same message. I had to have my car towed to the dealer who explained this is a part failure and is charging me $434. 00 to repair it. I see this being a potential safety issue since the steering may lock on me at some point when the car is running. This should be a recall issue and Volvo held accountable for repairing these vehicles at their cost.

Steering problem #3

The car began making howling noises when turning right. The noises were coming from the right front wheel area. The car is an awd model with manual 6 speed transmission. It was taken to the dealer to determine the source of the noise. Investigation revealed that the right front hub assembly was failing and required replacement. Had this component locked up, steering control would be lost and risk of a crash would escalate. The repair was at my expense ($786). These safety related steering and suspension parts should last longer than 58,000 miles. The car has been serviced in accordance with the owners manual service guide.



Safety Ratings of V50 Cars
Fuel Economy of V50 Vehicles
V50 Service Bulletins
V50 Safety Recalls