Does electric power steering have fluid on a Ford?
In Ford’s modern electric power steering systems, there is no steering fluid. EPAS (Electric Power Assist Steering) uses an electric motor and sensors to provide assistance, eliminating the need for hydraulic fluid. That said, older Ford models or certain configurations may still use hydraulic power steering, which does rely on fluid.
How EPAS works in Ford vehicles
Electric Power Assist Steering combines a motor mounted to the steering rack or column with electronic control units and sensors. The system uses vehicle speed and steering input to determine the amount of assist, delivering smooth steering without a hydraulic pump or fluid lines. This design reduces maintenance and prevents many traditional steering issues tied to fluid leaks or pump failures.
Fluid presence in Ford steering systems
Because EPAS does not rely on hydraulic pressure, there is no power-steering fluid reservoir in the normal sense. If you have a modern Ford with EPAS, you will not find a typical steering fluid reservoir under the hood for the steering system. However, some older Ford vehicles or rare configurations may still employ hydraulic assistance and would have a steering fluid reservoir and associated hoses.
Ford models typically equipped with EPAS
Below are examples of Ford model lines that commonly use electric power-assisted steering in recent years. Exact configurations can vary by year and market, so checking your specific vehicle is always best.
- Ford F-150 (recent generations)
- Ford Expedition
- Ford Explorer
- Ford Edge
- Ford Escape
- Ford Fusion
- Ford Mustang
In practice, most modern Ford passenger cars and light trucks use EPAS, which means no steering fluid for the power assist. If you’re unsure about your particular vehicle, consult the owner's manual or check under the hood for a traditional power-steering reservoir.
Signs of issues with electric power steering
Even though the system is fluid-free, EPAS can still develop faults. Watch for these symptoms that may indicate an electrical or sensor-related problem rather than a hydraulic leak.
- EPS warning light or service-required message on the dashboard
- Stiff or inconsistent steering effort, especially at low speeds
- Unusual clunking, knocking, or whining noises from the steering area
- Loss of steering assist or fluctuating steering effort
If you notice any of these symptoms, have the system inspected by a Ford dealership or a qualified technician. Electrical faults or sensor/calibration issues in EPAS require professional diagnosis rather than simple fluid checks.
What to do if you suspect hydraulic power steering (older Ford models)
Some older Ford models or specific trims may still use hydraulic power steering. In those cases, you will find a power-steering reservoir and hoses, and the system uses steering fluid. If you own one of these vehicles and notice low fluid, leaks, or pump noise, you should:
- Check the power-steering fluid level and top up with the manufacturer-recommended fluid
- Inspect for leaks around the pump, hoses, and rack
- Replace worn components (pump, rack, hoses) as needed
- Have the system pressure tested if flow or pressure seems off
Note that Ford has shifted most new vehicles to EPAS, so hydraulic systems are increasingly rare in current models.
Summary
For Ford’s modern lineup, electric power steering does not use hydraulic fluid and does not require a power-steering fluid reservoir. EPAS relies on an electric motor and sensors to provide steering assist, offering lower maintenance and fewer fluid-related issues. If your Ford is an older model or a special configuration, hydraulic power steering may still be present, which would involve a fluid reservoir and routine fluid checks. When in doubt, consult your owner’s manual or a Ford service professional to confirm the system type on your vehicle.
How do you check the fluid in electric power steering?
You'll check the fluid level with a dipstick which is usually attached to the cap. On some cars the power steering fluid can only be checked accurately after the engine has run for a brief. Period.
How do you refill electric power steering fluid?
How to Top Up Power Steering Fluid: A Step-by-Step Guide
- Step 1: Locate the Power Steering Fluid Reservoir.
- Step 2: Check the Current Fluid Level.
- Step 3: Purchase the Correct Power Steering Fluid.
- Step 4: Remove the Reservoir Cap.
- Step 5: Slowly Add Fluid to the Reservoir.
- Step 6: Check the Fluid Level Again.
How to reset electric power steering on a Ford?
And wait 5 seconds. And return the steering wheel to. Center. Turn off the car. Turn it back on. And test to see that your power steering feels much more fluid.
Does electric power steering need fluid?
No, electric power steering (EPS) does not need fluid because it uses an electric motor to assist the steering instead of a hydraulic pump. Systems like hydraulic or electronic hydraulic power steering (EHPS) do require fluid to function, while EPS is designed to be a hydraulic-free system.
This video explains the difference between hydraulic and electric power steering systems: 48sOBD InsightsYouTube · May 28, 2024
- Electric Power Steering (EPS): Uses an electric motor mounted on the steering column or rack to provide power assistance. It does not require any fluid, making it more efficient and maintenance-free in terms of fluid checks and leaks.
- Hydraulic Power Steering (HPS): Relies on a hydraulic pump to circulate power steering fluid to help turn the wheels. This system needs regular fluid checks and maintenance.
- Electronic Hydraulic Power Steering (EHPS): A hybrid system that uses an electric motor to drive a hydraulic pump. Like HPS, it requires steering fluid.
