Hi,

I have a 2005 Volvo S80 2.5T FWD. The rack is bad in it (leaking like a sieve). I cannot tell if it is stiff at low speeds and then loosens up (or vice versa) because the rack doesn't hold fluid in it long enough for me to tell. Is there a website or something that I can go to and enter the VIN to find out if I have variable assist. It is cold as ***** here so climbing underneath it is not an option. Furthermore, calling the dealer only led me to them wanting me to bring it in (and charge me) for them to tell me.

Thanks in Advance

 

Call a parts department of a dealer, not service.
Or post your VIN.

 

Vin YV1TS592451412653

 

On the VIN Decoder it reads "
Steering Type Pwr Speed Sensitive, Pwr Rack & Pinion


Does that mean Variable Assist?

 

That does, but the decoder is wrong. I don't think there is one online that shows all the options. Your car has a standard steering gear.

 

I just clicked on the vin in this message and scrolled through two pages to "tech specs" and then went under steering. I figured that would tell me. I guess I'll just buy the one off of eBay and see what happens since his vin says the sane as mine.

 

Ah I see. Taking a closer look and doing what you did, it looks like that page just shows different options available. That's actually naming both types. Notice the multiple tire sizes.