My 2003 v70 volvo is pulling drastically to right when i hit my brakes whatever speed i'm driving.I'm told it is not the alignment.It's gotten worse over the month.I'm not in my hometown and before taking to volvo dealer--really hate to go there--would like to go armed with a bit of info from you people on possibilities.I'm a woman and feel I could easily be taken advantage of.Help!

 

I bet it is one of your brakes. Do you hear a grind?

 

I agree with Eric J. You might have a worn rotor. If its pulling right, possibly the left is too worn? If thats the case, they are going to recommend both rotors(left and right) and pads.

 

I had my brakes checked--told they were good.someone mentioned a control arm?what's that?Thanks guys

 

Someone just mentioned a caliper possibly while i was out to lunch---any comments?

 

That is your lower suspension pivot. If itis your control arm,it must have either hit something hard underneath or there aremany miles onyour car. The bushings it connects to, would have to have alot of play or movement in them to make your car pull like you discribe. Thereis a ball joint on the other end that could also contribute, but you would notice a shake on the highway.Either way it could be dangerous to drive, especially,if you can move the tire back and forth while it is on the ground.

 

sorry eric--the brakes aren't grinding at all--no sounds--!

 

If this just started out out of the blue, This could be a safety issue. Did you lend the car to some yahoo last night? You need to jack it up where it sits and make sure.

 

Hi, new here and to volvos
Sounds like the left front brake caliper is siezed without a doubt. A quick check you could do is jack up the front of the car and have someone press the brake pedal then see if the wheels will turn. Or just take it to a garage and ask them to check your brakes!
Hope this helps.

 

Sorry, missed that post saying your brakes have been checked[:@]

Did the remove the calipers and check the pistons were free?

 

Nickb could be right if someone mis-diagnosed the brakes. I don't mean to panic you, just be sure.

 

I will bet the lower control arm bushing is broke.
And when you hit the brake the control arm kicks back setting the alignment off making the car pull to the right.

 

Thanks for all your help----i found a reputable volvo mechanic and he identified the problem as my caliper---it's driving fine now.

 

Glad to hear that. Thanks for checking back. We'll be here if there's a next time.