Suspension And Steering (2006-2013): Overview

Fig 1: Identifying Front Wheel Suspension, Rear Suspension & Steering

Courtesy of VOLVO CARS CORPORATION

Front wheel suspension

The front suspension is of the McPherson type.

Rear suspension

The rear suspension comprises a "Multi link rear axle".

Steering

The electrical power steering pump consists of:

servo pump
pump motor
electrical power steering module (EPS).

Servo assistance is determined by the steering gear torsion valve together with the electrical power steering module (EPS).

The torsion valve determines:

if servo assistance is required
in which direction servo assistance should go
how much of the available pump assistance should be used.

The electrical power steering module (EPS) determines the RPM of the pump using:

the vehicle speed
the steering wheel angle sensor.

The electric motor provides the pump with the power required to supply the correct hydraulic flow and pressure to the steering gear.

The adaptive steering column allows a relatively gentle deformation process in the event of a collision (only applies to drivers wearing seat belts, USA/CDN).

Steering shaft

The steering shaft is divided into two parts. The upper part of the steering column is further divided to prevent intrusion into the passenger compartment in event of a collision.