I'll probably say this incorrectly, but the problem was a sticking caliper/pistons.

It took three mechanics, two new, not needed tires, and an alignment, before the 3rd mechanic figured it out.

The mechanic replaced the right front caliper, and pads on both R and L front.
When I first got in the car to drive it home, the brake pedal went almost to the floor. The mechanic said he had only bled the fluid from the R. To fix the lack of pedal, he drained the entire system.

I tried the brakes again, and they weren't engaging where they should. Mechanic said I just need to get used to the new feel. Well, I drove the car 80 miles since then, and the pedal isn't engaging where it should, in my opinion, it's quite low and it doesn't feel right - borderline spongy.

The caliper was a girling, at $152.00, and the pads were Raybestos at $62.00. Total bill $320.00.

This is my first Volvo, and I've had it since June. 150,000. I wanted to post the steering shake solution, but also ask - what to do now? The mechanic believes the brakes to be function at the right level, but I think I know how they should feel and where they should engage -- break-in time, notwithstanding. Any input will be helpful. Thank you.