Where To Go In Dallas For Volvo Timing Belt Replacement

Posted on | 3 Jan 2024 By Anita Gaal

When it comes to maintaining your Volvo’s performance and longevity, few components are as critical as the timing belt. Serving as the heart of your Volvo’s engine, the timing belt synchronizes the rotation of the engine’s crankshaft and camshaft, ensuring precise operation. However, over time, this crucial component wears down, risking significant engine damage if not replaced within the manufacturer’s recommended intervals.

Signs Your Volvo Needs a Timing Belt Replacement

• Age and Mileage: The timing belt replacement interval varies among Volvo models, typically ranging from 60,000 to 100,000 miles or every 5 to 8 years. However, adhering strictly to these manufacturer-recommended schedules is crucial to prevent unforeseen belt failures. Consult your Volvo’s manual or seek professional advice to determine the specific replacement timeline for your vehicle.
• Visible Wear and Tear: Inspecting the timing belt regularly can reveal signs of wear such as cracks, fraying, or a glossy appearance—indications that it’s nearing the end of its lifespan. Additionally, unusual noises emanating from the engine area or visible engine misalignment might signal impending timing belt issues, necessitating immediate attention.
• Performance and Efficiency: A worn-out timing belt can cause the engine’s valves to open and close out of sync, leading to engine misfires, reduced power, or even complete engine failure. Addressing timing belt issues promptly not only preserves engine performance but also prevents costly repairs resulting from extensive engine damage.

Recognizing Symptoms That Signal Volvo Timing Belt Replacement

Detecting signs of a failing timing belt in your Volvo is crucial for timely replacement, preventing potential engine damage, and ensuring uninterrupted performance. Being aware of these symptoms can save you from costly repairs and keep your Volvo running smoothly:

• Engine Misfires or Rough Idling: A worn timing belt can cause erratic engine operation, resulting in misfires or rough idling. If you notice your Volvo’s engine vibrating excessively or running inconsistently at idle, it could indicate timing belt issues.
• Ticking or Clicking Noises from the Engine: Unusual noises emanating from the engine area, such as ticking or clicking sounds, could signal imminent timing belt problems. These noises often indicate that the belt has become worn, misaligned, or is on the verge of failure.
• Oil Leaks from the Front of the Motor: A deteriorating timing belt cover or a failing timing belt can cause oil leaks near the front of the engine. Any visible oil accumulation or dampness around the timing belt cover should prompt immediate inspection and potential replacement.
• Loss of Power or Engine Stalling: A failing timing belt can disrupt the synchronization between the crankshaft and camshaft, leading to a loss of power or even complete engine stalling. If your Volvo experiences a sudden loss of power or stalls unexpectedly, it’s crucial to have the timing belt inspected promptly.
• Visible Wear and Tear on the Timing Belt: Regular visual inspection of the timing belt can reveal signs of wear, including cracks, fraying, or a glossy appearance. Any visible damage or deterioration should prompt an immediate assessment and potential replacement.
• Engine Warning Lights: Modern Volvos are equipped with sophisticated onboard diagnostics that monitor various engine parameters. If the engine warning light illuminates on your dashboard, it could indicate timing belt issues or other related engine problems, necessitating professional attention.

Trust Euro Automotive for Expert Volvo Timing Belt Replacement

As a Volvo owner, ensuring the maintenance and replacement of critical components like the timing belt requires the expertise of seasoned professionals. In the Dallas, Garland, Arlington, and Fort Worth, TX, areas, Euro Automotive stands out as the premier destination for top-notch Volvo service and repairs.

We boast a team of highly skilled technicians specializing in Volvo vehicles, equipped with the latest diagnostic tools and genuine OEM parts to guarantee quality service. With our commitment to excellence and customer satisfaction, Euro Automotive ensures your Volvo receives meticulous care and precision during timing belt replacements and other essential services.

For reliable and expert Volvo timing belt replacement, contact us today at 214-956-7744. Trust our experienced team to keep your Volvo running at its best and ensure your peace of mind on the road.

Remember, maintaining your Volvo’s timing belt is crucial to its overall health and performance. Don’t overlook this vital component—schedule a service appointment with Euro Automotive to keep your Volvo in top condition.

Act Now to Prevent an Automatic Transmission Failure in Your Volvo

Posted on | 30 Nov 2023 By Anita Gaal

Volvo’s automatic transmission system is a sophisticated network of components designed to provide a smooth and effortless driving experience. Unlike manual transmissions, which rely on the driver to shift gears by first pressing the clutch pedal, automatic transmissions use a hydraulic torque converter and a complex set of gears to manage gear changes automatically.

This intricate system contributes to Volvo’s renowned reputation for comfort and ease of use. However, when the automatic transmission system fails, it brings with it several consequences that can significantly impact your driving experience. Let us look at ways you can detect an automatic transmission failure in your Volvo and what you can do when this problem occurs.

Recognizing the Signs of Automatic Transmission Failure

Automatic transmission failure often starts with subtle signs that, if detected early, can prevent more extensive damage. Here are some indicators that your transmission may be in distress:

• Loss of Power and Acceleration: One of the immediate consequences of automatic transmission failure is a noticeable loss of power and acceleration. Your Volvo may struggle to reach desired speeds, making it challenging to merge onto highways or overtake other vehicles. This can not only be frustrating but also compromise the safety of your driving experience.
• Unpredictable Shifting: A failing automatic transmission may exhibit unpredictable shifting patterns. You might experience abrupt or delayed gear changes, leading to a jerky and uncomfortable ride. This inconsistency in shifting can make your Volvo less enjoyable to drive, detracting from the smooth and refined experience it is known for.
• Unusual Noises: Another way to spot transmission failure is by paying attention to any unfamiliar noises emanating from your Volvo. Whining, clunking, or grinding sounds, especially during acceleration or deceleration, can be indicative of internal transmission issues.
• Transmission Fluid Leaks: A sudden drop in fluid levels or visible leaks underneath your vehicle may signal a problem. Low fluid levels can lead to overheating and accelerated wear within the transmission.
• Warning Lights on the Dashboard: If the transmission is experiencing issues, it may trigger a warning light on the dashboard. Never ignore these warnings; they are your vehicle’s way of communicating a potential problem.

Strategies for Dealing With Automatic Transmission Failure

Regular Maintenance Checks

Prevention is often the best cure. Regular maintenance checks, including inspections of the transmission fluid level and condition, can help catch potential issues early. Follow the manufacturer’s recommended service intervals to keep your Volvo’s transmission in top condition.

Prompt Attention to Warning Signs

Don’t ignore the early warning signs mentioned earlier. If you notice any abnormalities in your Volvo’s transmission performance, such as delayed shifting or unusual noises, schedule a diagnostic check promptly.

Transmission Fluid Flush

Regularly flushing and replacing the transmission fluid at recommended intervals can prevent issues related to low fluid levels and contamination. Fresh, clean fluid helps maintain optimal transmission performance.

Repair or Replacement

Depending on the severity of the transmission failure, the technician may recommend repairs or a complete transmission replacement. In some cases, rebuilding the transmission may be a viable option. The decision will be based on factors such as the extent of damage, cost considerations, and the overall condition of the vehicle.

Why Professional Help Matters for Your Volvo

When it comes to addressing Volvo’s automatic transmission failure, the importance of seeking professional help cannot be overstated. Trained technicians with expertise in Volvo vehicles can provide accurate diagnoses, recommend appropriate solutions, and execute repairs with precision. Trusting your Volvo to professionals ensures that the intricate transmission system is handled with the care and expertise it deserves.

Choose Euro Automotive for Your Volvo’s Transmission Needs

At Euro Automotive, we understand the intricate engineering of Volvo transmission. Our team of skilled technicians is equipped with the knowledge and expertise to diagnose and address any transmission issues with precision. We prioritize transparency, ensuring that our clients are informed at every step of the repair process. Our garage is conveniently located to serve as a trusted partner for Volvo owners seeking reliable transmission services in areas like Dallas, Garland, Arlington, and Fort Worth, TX. Whatever repair, maintenance, or assistance that you need can be provided by our trained technician. Book an appointment with us now.

The Risks of Driving Your Volvo with the Check Engine Light On

Posted on | 15 Jun 2023 By Anita Gaal

The check engine light is a small but significant indicator on your Volvo’s dashboard. While it may be tempting to ignore it or delay addressing the issue, doing so can have serious consequences for both your Volvo and your safety. Let’s look into the risks associated with driving your Volvo with the check engine light on and emphasize the importance of prompt diagnosis and repair.

Potential Engine Damage

The check engine light is designed to alert you to potential problems within your Volvo’s engine system. Ignoring this warning can lead to severe engine damage. Modern Volvo vehicles are equipped with complex engine control systems that monitor various parameters such as fuel mixture, ignition timing, and emission levels.

When the check engine light illuminates, it indicates that the system has detected a fault that requires attention. Continuing to drive with a faulty engine can exacerbate the issue and lead to costly repairs or even engine failure.

Decreased Fuel Efficiency

A malfunctioning engine can significantly impact your Volvo’s fuel efficiency. The check engine light often indicates issues with components like the oxygen sensor, mass airflow sensor, or fuel injectors, which play a crucial role in optimizing fuel consumption.

When these components are compromised, your Volvo may experience reduced mileage, leading to frequent visits to the gas station and increased fuel expenses. Addressing the problem promptly can help restore optimal fuel efficiency and save you money in the long run.

Safety Concerns

Driving a Volvo with the check engine light on poses potential safety risks. The engine is a vital component of your vehicle, and a malfunctioning engine can result in unexpected breakdowns or loss of power while driving. This can be particularly dangerous in situations where quick acceleration or maneuvering is necessary to avoid accidents.

Additionally, the check engine light may also indicate problems with critical systems such as the braking system or transmission. Ignoring these warnings can compromise your ability to control the vehicle effectively, putting yourself and others at risk on the road.

Emissions Non-Compliance

Volvo vehicles are known for their commitment to environmental sustainability. When the check engine light is illuminated, it may be indicative of issues with the emission control system. Driving your Volvo in this condition can cause it to emit higher levels of pollutants into the atmosphere, contributing to environmental degradation.

Moreover, failing to address emission-related problems may result in non-compliance with local emission regulations, leading to potential fines or penalties. Promptly addressing the check engine light can help ensure that your Volvo remains eco-friendly and compliant with emission standards.

Difficulty in Diagnosis

The check engine light can be triggered by a wide range of issues, ranging from minor to more complex problems. Without proper diagnosis, it is challenging to determine the root cause of the warning light. Attempting to continue driving without resolving the underlying problem can worsen the situation and lead to additional complications.

It is crucial to have your Volvo inspected by a qualified technician who can utilize diagnostic tools and expertise to identify the specific issue. This will save you time, money, and potential headaches associated with trial and error troubleshooting.

Act Now to Avoid Hassle Later

The check engine light in your Volvo is not a mere inconvenience; it is a valuable warning system designed to protect your vehicle and your safety. Ignoring or delaying the necessary repairs can result in severe engine damage, decreased fuel efficiency, compromised safety, emission non-compliance, and difficulty in diagnosing the problem.

As a responsible Volvo owner, it is essential to prioritize addressing the check engine light promptly. Consult with a certified Volvo technician who possesses the expertise and tools required to diagnose and resolve the underlying issue. By taking immediate action, you can ensure the longevity of your Volvo, optimize fuel efficiency, maintain safety standards, reduce emissions, and enjoy a worry-free driving experience.

Euro Automotive for Your Volvo

At Euro Automotive we use OEM parts for all services and repairs and each of our mechanics are certified and have years of experience working with European vehicles. We take pride in calling ourselves the best mechanics in the greater Dallas/Fort Worth area. If you are in or around Dallas, Garland, Arlington, or Fort Worth, TX, give us a call today so we can ensure your BMW or European model gets the proper care it deserves. We look forward to the opportunity to earn your repeat business for your future car care needs.

Reasons Your Volvo’s Suspension Bushing Fails From Certified Mechanics in Dallas

Posted on | 7 Jun 2020 By Anita Gaal

Your Volvo uses bushing as part of its suspension. Bushings are rubber pads that absorb shocks from the road. They do this by acting as a buffer between bumps and divots and your car’s cabin. Because of the bushing, your Volvo is smoother and easier to drive.

Bushing can be found throughout the suspension system at any point where a joint is formed. These pads prevent the joints from deterioration caused by grinding. Bushing rarely lasts the lifespan of a vehicle, and some areas tend to burn through bushings faster than others. Areas where bushing tends to fail include the anti-roll bar, drop-link, the control arms, the mounts, and the shock absorbers.

When a bushing around a joint starts to fail, its effectiveness at buffering the shocks from the road is reduced as well as noise-absorbing qualities. When this happens, drivers will notice noises from the suspension along with a much rougher ride. Let’s take a closer look at this problem and learn some of the reasons which can cause bushing failure to happen more quickly.

Signs of Bushing Failure

The following symptoms can be indicative of bushing failure:

• Your Volvo rattles when it drives over uneven road surfaces
• Your Volvo makes clunking noises when taking corners or braking
• Your Volvo feels like its front is trembling
• Your Volvo is more difficult to steer
• Your Volvo’s steering seems more loose than normal

The last two symptoms on this list tend to indicate wear to the front bushings, but bushings anywhere in your vehicle can cause you to experience these unwanted symptoms. A good rule of thumb to remember is that while front bushings will cause steering issues alongside noises and trembling, rear suspension problems will not.

Where is Bushing Found

You can inspect your Volvo’s bushing relatively easily if you know where to look. As mentioned, bushing is mostly found throughout the suspension system, so you’ll need to be looking underneath your vehicle to inspect most of it. However, bushing can be found outside of your suspension too, so if you’re trying to diagnose bushing failure you’ll need to check the following:

• ball joints
• engine
• control arms
• steering parts
• shock absorbers
• stabilizer bars
• strut mounts
• suspension
• tie rods
• transmission mounts

Common Causes of Bushing Failure

The main reason for bushing failure is simply age, with the part having served its purpose and needing to be swapped out. Stress and fiction can exacerbate the degradation of bushing, which largely comes from high engine temperatures and heat exposure. The elements can also play a role in making bushing fail more quickly. If you drive your Volvo in a climate that is humid or frequently inclement, then you may need to replace your bushing more often.

Inspecting your Bushing

You may suspect that your bushing has failed but you’re not sure what you’re looking for to confirm your suspicions. Bushing is like the cartilage in your body. It protects the joints from stress. Cartilage wears out as we age, and the same can be said for the bushing in your Volvo.

When inspecting your Volvo, you want to go by touch, not sight. A bad bushing will have become dry and inflexible. If the bushing feels more like solid plastic than flexible rubber, then it is worn out and will need to be replaced.

Bushing should always be replaced at the first sign of an issue, because its failure can often have a domino effect on other parts. For example, if the bushing protecting the control arm fails, then it can cause your Volvo to become misaligned, which will result in premature tire wear.

A similar chain reaction can be caused in other areas of your Volvo, too. Put simply, unless you’re an expert, it’s very hard to pinpoint all the possible damage caused by the lack of padding provided by the worn-out bushing. It is best to take your Volvo in for inspection and proper replacement of any bushing that needs servicing.

Euro Automotive

When it comes time for your bushing to be replaced, you can rely on our team at Euro Automotive of Dallas, Garland, Arlington, and Fort Worth, TX. Our experts will quickly service your Volvo and get you back on the road safely. Call our customer service team today to find out more or to schedule an appointment.

Reasons Behind Your Volvo’s Airbag Malfunction Light

Posted on | 22 May 2020 By Anita Gaal

Volvo vehicles are well-known for their dependable performance and consistent safety. As a result, it might come as a surprise when you’re driving your Volvo to see the airbag malfunction light turn on. When owning a Volvo, you need to know what this symbol means and why it may illuminate.

Causes of Volvo Airbag Malfunction

Because of the importance of airbag functionality in your car, whichever of these might be the issue, it’s still best that you have a qualified auto mechanic look over your car for safety. Though the airbag light comes on when you start your car as its system tests itself, it should always turn off after a short period of time.

Case #1

Your Volvo has a sensor that tells the car’s computer if the seat belts are fastened when people of a certain weight are sitting in the seats. If there is a fault in the sensor, and it does not detect a passenger or driver, the airbag light will come on. The airbag is in jeopardy of not deploying in a collision because the car has no sensor that someone is sitting in the seat.

There can be some simple reasons for this, such as debris or a coin lodged inside the seat belt buckle. Something like this is a simple fix, but if the airbag warning light comes on, it’s still best to have your car inspected because of the high stakes involved in knowing if you have properly-functioning airbags in your car. If you’ve checked your buckle for debris and do not find any obvious issues, bring your car in to check the airbag sensor.

Case #2

If something inside the airbag is malfunctioning or broken, the airbag warning light will illuminate. Inside the airbag is a clock spring. This is a coil that helps connect the electrical wiring to the airbags. If it is damaged, the airbag won’t deploy during an accident. This is an urgent issue that needs immediate repair.

Case #3

When a car has been in an accident, the force, location, and direction of the crash are all measured instantly by sensors in the car. These sensors help the car’s computer determine if the airbags should be deployed, and if so, which ones will inflate to protect you in the case of a side impact, head on collision, or other crash. This helps make sure that airbags are spared or not deployed if they are not necessary.

In some crashes, these sensors register force that doesn’t necessitate airbag deployment. If you have a very minor collision and the airbags do not need to deploy, your airbag sensors may need to be reset. Without having this valuable component reset, the airbag sensor may not detect a future crash, failing to deploy the airbag when, in fact, this time, it was necessary for driver and passenger protection.

You can see why it is imperative to bring your Volvo in for inspection of the warning light illuminates, indicating any problem with your airbag.

No matter what the cause of the airbag malfunction, it’s essential that your car’s safety is assured by a thorough and detailed check of all your safety systems, so you can drive your Volvo knowing that all of its safety features are fully operational. While it can be helpful for you to know what can be causing problems with your Volvo’s airbags, in the end, all of these concerns will require inspection, repair, and possible replacement to be required.

Volvo Recalls

Some Volvo vehicles in the past have had faulty airbag clocksprings. These models were recalled by the company in 2015. If you’re driving an older model of the car, make sure you know your car’s history so you can be sure that the issues related to the Takata airbag recall don’t affect your safety while driving.

How Euro Automotive Can Help Inspect Your Volvo

Now that you know more about what airbags can mean for your safety, if you have noticed the airbag malfunction light in your Volvo has turned on, do not hesitate to bring your car in for inspection to Euro Automotive.

We have locations in Dallas, Garland, Arlington, and Fort Worth, TX. Our performance, from routine maintenance and general inspections to repairs, will guarantee your Volvo’s safety and proper performance. You can leave our shops feeling confident in the work we perform to get you back on the road safely and quickly. Contact us today for an appointment.

Tips to Detect Tie Rod Failure in a Volvo From Certified Technicians in Dallas

Posted on | 29 Feb 2020 By Anita Gaal

The tie rod is a part of the steering mechanism of a vehicle and consists of an inner and outer end. Its purpose is to supply force to the steering knuckle from the steering center link, which ultimately allows the wheel to turn. The outer end of the tie rod connects to a sleeve that allows for the length of the tie rod to be adjusted. This is used to set the angle of the vehicle’s alignment.

Because of the tie rod’s role in the steering and alignment, damage to or failure of this component can be quite serious and even pose a danger to your driving experience. It is also an essential component to the suspension system. As the tie rod wears, it can become loose and develop slack. This increases the difficulty with which you steer and handle your Volvo.

Protecting your vehicle against the failure of the tie rod is as easy as making sure you take your Volvo to get regular maintenance, as it can be checked along with a standard oil change. Still, if you’re beginning to notice some of the symptoms discussed in this article, you need to have your Volvo serviced by a licensed professional as soon as possible. An untreated failure of the tie rod can lead to further problems with your vehicle, such as excessive tire wear and further damage to the suspension system.

Signs of a Bad Tie Rod

One of the most common symptoms drivers notice with a bad tie rod is actually surprisingly similar to the feeling of a flat tire. You may notice your vehicle pulling to one side while driving. Again, this is because the tie rod is a component that directly controls the ease with which you steer. A damaged tie rod will create resistance or other difficulties where there normally is none, causing unnecessary and even alarming challenges in standard operation.

A bad tie rod will also inevitably lead to uneven tire wear, primarily because of its effect on the vehicle’s alignment. Recall that the outer end of the tie rod is the component adjusted during vehicle alignment. Even if you have recently had your wheels aligned, the damaged outer end may still slip out of place and cause problems once again. You may also experience vibrations or a general feeling of instability when operating your Volvo in addition to squeaking noises coming from the front of your vehicle. In the event of a complete failure of the tie rod, you may lose the ability to steer entirely.

Driving With a Bad Tie Rod

Depending on the extent of the damage, it is surely possible to drive a car with a bad tie rod. However, it is in no way a good idea to do so, if you can avoid it. The major source of concern for such a decision is the potential for loss of steering. This is extremely dangerous and can pose a risk to you, your passengers, and other drivers on the road.

If the damage is not quite that bad, it is still recommended that you don’t drive the vehicle any more than you absolutely have to (i.e., driving it to the auto shop) because continued operation of the vehicle will inevitably lead to further damages. All of the effects of a damaged tie rod are intertwined, so chances are, if you’re only seeing one of the aforementioned symptoms, you may start noticing the others quite soon. The sooner the repair, the less damage to other parts and components.

Get Your Volvo Repaired at Euro Automotive

At Euro Automotive, we understand the investment you made when you purchased your Volvo. That’s why, when you bring your Volvo into our shop, we promise to treat and repair it as if it were our own. Our mechanics specialize in European repair services and, as the number one auto shop in Dallas with 18 years of service under our belt, we are prepared to offer the best alternative to expensive dealership repairs at fair pricing with great customer service. Call us today to schedule an appointment or visit us at one of our locations in Dallas, Garland, Arlington, and Forth Worth, TX.

Ways to Repair Tie Rod Failure in Your Volvo

Posted on | 16 Oct 2019 By Anita Gaal

Volvos have a well-earned reputation for being very durable and long-lasting automobiles. If you pulled up a chair and observed any highly-traveled roadway in this country, you will doubtlessly spot many older model Volvos speeding down the street, operating just as well as they did when they were first driven off the lot. However, Volvos are not completely impervious to wear and tear and other more serious mechanical problems. There are certain problems that Volvos develop over time that, as a Volvo owner, you should consider. One of these issues is the failure of the tie rod. If you aren’t mechanically inclined, you may be asking yourself what exactly is a tie rod and what is it doing in your Volvo? Let’s discuss that in the article below.

What are tie rods and what do they do?

Tie rods assist in the steering of the automobile. They serve as the connecting point between the center of the vehicle to the outer edge where the wheels are located within the greater power steering system. Tie rods respond to the commands of the steering wheel. They allow the wheels to pivot either left or right, depending on which way you are turning. Obviously, these are important implements within the steering system. If they malfunction, you will be in major trouble on the road. Your steering may be rendered completely useless, and the car will not be drivable. So how do you spot a failing tie rod in your Volvo if you aren’t a professional mechanic?

How to Spot the Symptoms of a Failing Tie Rod

Since the tie rod is an integral part of the steering of your Volvo, you will notice a few key signs in the handling of your automobile if one of your tie rods is failing. Your steering will simply not respond in the usual way that you are accustomed. You may feel a slight shifting when handling your steering wheel. You also may hear strange noises emanating from the steering system, especially when you attempt to turn the car left or right. When trying to turn, the popping or clicking noises will become more audible. This is a sign of a potentially dangerous situation, and you need to bring your car in to a trustworthy auto repair shop that can replace the tie rods for you. If you wait at all, the ball-in-socket joints will wear down at an accelerated rate, which will quickly lead to the misalignment of your wheels. In this state, it will be near impossible to drive your Volvo at all. At this point, the only question that really remains is where to bring your Volvo for servicing.

Euro Automotive Will Repair Your Tie Rods

Finding the right repair shop to bring your beloved automobile to can be a daunting task. In today’s world of spotty online reviews from people who may or may not have a vendetta against a business, it can be difficult to figure out just which shops are trustworthy and reliable, and which will just waste your time and money.

However, there is one auto repair shop in the Dallas-Fort Worth area that truly earns every 5-star review. Euro Automotive in Dallas believes with good reason that we offer a true alternative to the dealership experience. Our skilled technicians in our employ are not only good at their jobs, but they are very friendly too. You will never feel as if you are an afterthought, which is an all too common experience at a dealership repair shop.

Euro Automotive has been in operation for nearly 20 years, and we have seen other repair shops in the area come and go. We know what it takes to repair high-quality vehicles like your Volvo. Customers have trusted us with their prized possessions for just as long as we have been in operation.

You now know that failing tie rods can lead to a dangerous situation that will, at the very least, cost you a ton of money. Don’t wait until it’s too late. If you live in Dallas, Garland, Arlington, or Fort Worth, TX, bring your car into the only repair shop you will ever need. Bring it in to Euro Automotive today.

Why Does Your Volvo Knock Over Bumps On the Road?

Posted on | 10 Oct 2018 By Anita Gaal

The Volvo is known for its class, optimal performance, and sleek style. Many drivers express how smooth and effective the overall drive is. This, along with their reputation for luxury, are primary reasons why consumers purchase a Volvo. However, when a driver experiences an unpleasant drive that consists of feeling every single bump on the road, this can prove to be both frustrating and concerning. Below are some reasons you might be experiencing a loud or bumpy ride.

Suspension Issues

Your engine communicates directly with your steering wheel, which then tells the tires where to go. When there is an issue with any part of the vehicle, especially the suspension system, there are bound to be issues with roughness. When problems occur with how the car is moving over the road, suspension is the primary cause of concern. However, there are a few underlying issues that could be contributing to the unpleasantness of your drive.

Inspect Your Tires

When your tires are old, worn, or need air, they can make driving a headache. They can impact the motion of your vehicle, thus making it easy to feel every bump in the road. If the tire is not firmly secured into your wheel disk, it may result in vibrations or even shakes. This, in turn, could make your car feel every bump and hole in the road. In addition, your wheel alignment could also be to blame. If one of your wheels begins to veer off in a opposite direction, have your alignment checked out to make sure the problem doesn’t get bigger. It is also important to have your tires rotated every 4 to 6 months.

Another thing it is important to keep your eye on is tire air pressure. If your tires are low on air, they will not be able to provide the smoothest ride. Sometimes, a simple trip to the air pump may make a huge difference in how your car drives. In addition, too much air can also play a major role in the smoothness of your drive. It is key to understand the parameters surrounding your personal car’s pressure and stay within those limits. This will be the difference between a smooth ride and a bumpy one.

Brake Issues

When you experience a delay in your breaking or even strange smells coming from your transmission, it may be wise to get your brakes properly inspected. When they are not working in the expected manner, they may impact how smoothly your car drives. One way to fix this problem is to simply clean your brakes from contamination. A simple whisk away of dust, dirt, or debris can make a major difference in the performance of your car.

Transmission Issues

Although the thought of having transmission issues can bring about major anxiety, it is still important to make sure it is healthy and up-to-date. If the source of your Volvo’s trouble is the transmission, a thump in the road or even a slight vibration being picked up from the road can indicate a larger issue. Leaking, dirty, or contaminated fluids that come from the car’s interior are also signs to look for. If you are experiencing a sudden change in the way your car drives, have a trusted auto repair shop take a look at your transmission to make sure it is working properly.

How We Can Help

The beauty of the Volvo is timeless. Since this car represents class and style, it is important to keep it healthy in order to increase its longevity. Routine maintenance is the primary way to avoid hefty damages done to your vehicle. Therefore, having a reliable and trustworthy group of specialists to work on your car is ideal.

Our professionals at Euro Automotive, have been serving the car owners of Dallas, Garland, Arlington, Fort Worth, TX for over 18 years. Known as the number one shop for European cars, Euro Automotive can provide reliable and cost effective solutions to your vehicle issues. We are dedicated to solving your car crisis and making you feel taken care of. To get started on the road to a smoother ride in your Volvo, call to schedule an appointment or stop by today.

* Man Driving Volvo image credit goes to: huettenhoelscher.

* Volvo XC40 image credit goes to: y_carfan.

How to Deal With a Transfer Case Failure in Volvo

Posted on | 7 Aug 2018 By Anita Gaal

For many years, Volvo has been making cars that are four wheel and all wheel drive. Four wheel and all wheel drive allows the car to successfully maneuver through rough terrain such as dirt, gravel, and snow. Due to this capability, along with a sense of style, Volvos are being chosen more and more as a go to car to drive in areas where all wheel drive is necessary.

For a Volvo to have the four wheel and all wheel drive capability, it requires a transfer case. If the transfer case is failing then this means that the vehicle is no longer functioning in the all wheel drive mode. This can prove to be very dangerous if it goes unrepaired. One example would be if it has begun to snow and your Volvo needs to be in four wheel or all wheel drive in order to maneuver through the streets that will soon be covered in snow. As I’m sure you can imagine, this can get dangerous very quickly. Knowing the symptoms for a transfer case failure and how to deal with it in your Volvo will ultimately keep you and others safe.

What is a Transfer Case

A transfer case is the component that is going to send the power from the engine through the axels to each of the four wheels. Depending on what model of Volvo you own, there are three to four drive modes, and for each of these modes they will have different transfer cases. The first is that the car will be in all wheel drive at all times. The second is part-time four wheel drive. This means that you have the ability to go from two wheel drive to four wheel drive when you need to. This is beneficial for those who drive mainly on paved roads and rarely go through extreme elements.

The third and newest mode is active all wheel drive. This will have the most complicated transfer case system, because the car has to decide when to switch automatically into all wheel drive mode. Going into all wheel drive mode will be brief and it depends on the type of terrain you are driving on at that exact moment.

Symptoms of a Transfer Case Failure

There are a couple different ways you will be able to tell if your Volvo is experiencing a transfer case failure. Knowing them ahead of time will allow you to recognize them if they were to occur.

Grinding Noises Underneath Car

Like most parts in your Volvo, in order for the transfer case to work properly there needs to be fluid or lubricants involved. The lubricants will keep the transfer case functioning the way it needs to be as smoothly as possible. If there is a lack of fluids running through the transfer case, then as it attempts to work there will be a lot of grinding occurring. If your Volvo starts making any type of metal-to-metal grinding noises, then you know to take it in immediately.

Volvo Jumps In and Out of Four Wheel Drive

If your Volvo automatically goes into four wheel drive or if you control when it does, a failing transfer case will mean that the car will not be able to follow this four wheel drive command. The car will jump in and out of the four wheel drive mode seemingly at random. This could be due to a possible lack of fluids in the transfer case. The lack of fluids may be caused by a leak that will have to be addressed. Broken pieces in the transfer cases can also cause this problem.

The Professionals Who Care

Once you notice either one or both of these signs of a transfer case failure in your Volvo, bring it down to Euro Automotive so we can properly address the issue. Our technicians are certified in handling the most complex issues so you know that we will be able to effectively repair a transfer case that is failing. We want to keep you safe in all terrains that you are travelling on with your Volvo.

We are located in Dallas TX, and are easily accessible from Fort Worth, Garland, and Arlington. Whether you need repairs or standard maintenance, bring your Volvo in to our experts at Euro Automotive so we can help you get back on the road.

* Volvo Steering Wheel image credit goes to: huettenhoelscher.

* Volvo XC60 R-Design image credit goes to: gargantiopa.