Just today (-5deg) I went to adjust the wheel height and when I tried to push the lever back up to lock it came loose with a snap. Now the wheel is free to flop up and down. This is my wifes car (2000 S80) and against my advise she bought it mainly for the looks, etc. This is why I don't like Volvos much anymore. They seem to have gone away from homelier and sturdier to flashier and cheaper.

Anyway I'm done with the editorial rant and now I need to fix this. I should say I'm intent on doing this myself even if it means some repair that just jams the column in a good spot. I really really do not want to bleed any more money to a shop to do a 'Volvo' authorized fix. Has anybody had to do this before? I am experienced with mechanical and electrical repairs of a wide variety of machines but saw no need to re-invent the wheel. If I get no hits I'll tackle it regardless and pass along what I did. One last poke..I can always count on my 15 year old Ford to take me to get parts too.



OK, 2-3 hrs later I get to have a look. Hm... cheap plastic handle, twisted it right out. I think I can use vice grips to at least tighten the thing while I snoop for a replacement.