97 850 r pulling left and right when coming to a stop

vett1970 · Post by **vett1970** » 21 Dec 2004, 18:48

Car is pulling left and right when coming to a stop on a bumpy road. I replace both control arms(ball joints included) 3,000 miles ago for this problem. It just started to do it again. Is it possible one or both are bad again? If so can anyone suggest as to why they woud be wearing out?

Smash2 · Post by **Smash2** » 23 Dec 2004, 07:10

Well you are saying you had this problem before and the ball joints definitely fixed it?

If you are not sure, sounds more like loose tie rod ends to me. However, there are a lot of front end parts that can cause strange steering issues. Best to check all variables - for a DIY person I've found it's usually cheaper to replace parts than get an 'expert' diagnosis, but that's not always true. You'll have to get an alignment anyway if you get new tie rod ends, you could buy them from IPD right now for like $25 each and take it to a shop for install/alignment and have them look at the general front end of your car while they have it....

One thing to rule out for sure is brake problems/binding, if you can.

IPD will send you a free catalog if you contact them (.com) and they have some hints on steering problems and a lot of stuff on sale right now. One thing they mention is the upper strut mounts which are also on sale pretty cheap.

Good Luck!

Guest · Post by **Guest** » 06 Jan 2005, 15:45

Thanks for the reply. I put new front rotors an pads so I am pretty sure it is not a brake problem. I am pretty sure replacing the control arms 3,000 miles ago did resolve the problem because it stopped doing it until just recently. I am going to get back under the care and make sure everything is tight. I did just find a worn swaybar link, but do not think that is my problem. I am replacing it because the noise is irritating the hell out of me. I will also check tierods. Also can anyone recommend wher to get used volvo wheels. I am looking for a a set of the 16" turbo wheels. I want to put an all season tire on them. We have the 17's now and the car is horrible in the snow. (has a set of yokahamas ultimate performance summer tires on it)

Guest · Post by **Guest** » 06 Jan 2005, 22:19

If you're gonna be using the wheels just for the snow I'd suggest just going aftermarket from tirerack or basically anywhere around you. Unless you want a stock look?... then ebay or a junkyard always work.

floryed · Post by **floryed** » 23 Apr 2005, 21:20

It could be a caliper sticking. Most likely, it is the front caliper that you steer to when braking. In your case, because it is happening to both sides, you may want to replace both.

Jot · Post by **Jot** » 24 Apr 2005, 07:36

Jack and support one side of the front end. Holding the wheel at 3 and 9 try moving the wheel push pull to try and locate the part. repeat on the other side. If you can get a helper try having them turn the steering wheel while you hold the tire.