My 2000 S 80 is very hard to turn in the morning. But it only happens on the first turn, after that it is perfectly fine. Power stering fluid is o.k. Any suggestions. Is the power stering pump starting to go? How hard is that to change? Thanks for any feedback

 

Sounds like the steering rack is going bad.

 

How can I tell if its the rack or the power steering pump? What would each of these cost to repair? Can a non Volvo repair shop handle these repairs?

Thanks

 

The repairs are quite costly. I don't know what they would cost on a Volvo, but my 2000 Pontiac Grand Prix was almost 1500 dollars. I would recommend taking it to a shop or your dealer and allowing them to diagnose it for you. What you have described is indicative of the rack and pinion system going bad. Sorry for the bad news!

 

It is a pain to check properly.

I am giving my opinion from what I have seen many times.