The largest online repair guide library for every car

About us
Contact support
FAQ
Sign up
Sign in

2017 S90 T6 - Car Pulls to the Right, Uneven Tire Wear, Loose Steering

0

Mike T. · rep 0 · May 25, 3:54 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2017 Volvo S90 T6 Inscription

Hey everyone,

I'm having some handling issues with my 2017 Volvo S90 T6 Inscription. Lately, the car has started to pull noticeably to the right, requiring constant steering correction to keep it straight. I also noticed that my front right tire is showing significantly more wear on the outer edge compared to the other tires.

On top of that, the steering feels a bit looser than it used to, not as precise. The car has around 60,000 miles on it. I haven't hit any major potholes or had any incidents that would explain this sudden change.

Could this be an alignment issue, or something more serious like worn suspension components? I'm hoping it's not too costly to fix. Any advice on what might be going on or what to tell the mechanic would be super helpful!

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

ClearTheCode Team · rep 0 · May 25, 3:54 AM

0

ClearTheCode admin answer:

The symptoms you're describing—pulling to one side, uneven tire wear, and loose steering—are classic indicators of issues with your S90's alignment and/or suspension components. These problems can degrade handling, reduce safety, and lead to premature tire replacement.

Common Causes:

  1. Wheel Alignment Issues: This is the most straightforward cause. An incorrect toe, camber, or caster angle can cause the vehicle to pull and lead to uneven tire wear. Hitting curbs, potholes, or even normal wear and tear can throw alignment off.
  2. Worn Suspension Components:
    • Control Arm Bushings: Degraded or torn bushings in the control arms (especially the lower ones) can allow excessive movement, leading to alignment shifts, pulling, and a loose steering feel.
    • Ball Joints: Worn ball joints introduce play, affecting steering precision and alignment.
    • Tie Rod Ends: Worn inner or outer tie rod ends can cause loose steering and make it impossible to maintain proper alignment.
    • Struts/Shocks: While less likely to cause a pull directly, severely worn struts can affect ride height and overall suspension geometry, exacerbating other issues.
  3. Tire Issues: Sometimes a tire itself can be the culprit. A tire with internal damage (e.g., a separated belt) can cause a pull or vibration, even if it looks fine externally.
  4. Steering Rack Issues: While less common at 60k miles, a failing steering rack could contribute to a loose steering feel, though it's usually accompanied by other symptoms like leaks or power steering assist issues.

What to Check/Do:

  1. Tire Inspection: Carefully inspect all tires for any bulges, uneven wear patterns (beyond the outer edge wear on the front right), or damage. You could try rotating the front tires side to side (if non-directional) to see if the pull changes sides, which would implicate the tire.
  2. Visual Suspension Check: Look for any obvious signs of damage or excessive play in suspension components when the car is on the ground and then safely jacked up.

When to See a Shop:

It's crucial to have your S90 inspected by a professional mechanic or Volvo dealership as soon as possible. They will perform a comprehensive suspension inspection to identify any worn components, and then conduct a precise four-wheel alignment. Ignoring these symptoms can lead to rapid tire wear, compromised handling, and potentially unsafe driving conditions. A professional diagnosis will pinpoint whether it's solely an alignment issue or if worn parts need replacement before a proper alignment can be performed.

Menu

Help & account