Does the Ford Fiesta have electric power steering?
Yes. The Ford Fiesta generally uses electric power-assisted steering (EPAS) in recent generations, with hydraulic steering found on some older or base-model variants.
As Ford shifted its lineup toward electrification, EPAS became standard across most Fiests. The system replaces the engine-driven hydraulic pump with an electric motor that provides steering assist and can vary its effort depending on speed and driving conditions. Ford ended new Fiesta production in Europe in 2019 and in other markets around that time, so most Fiests you'll encounter today are used examples built in the 2010s, though EPAS remains the norm. This article explains how EPAS works, how it has evolved across generations, and what buyers should know when shopping for a used Fiesta.
How EPAS works in the Fiesta
Below are the key elements that define the Fiesta's electric power steering setup, including what drivers experience and what maintenance may be required.
- Efficiency and electrical load: EPAS draws power from the car's 12-volt electrical system rather than running a hydraulic pump from the engine, which can save fuel and reduce emissions—especially in city driving.
- Variable assistance: The system uses sensors (steering angle, torque, vehicle speed) to adjust the amount of steering effort automatically, typically offering lighter assist at parking speeds and firmer feel at higher speeds.
- Integration with electronics: EPAS is usually integrated with the vehicle's stability control, lane-keeping assist, and other driver-assistance systems, enabling coordinated responses to inputs.
- Maintenance and reliability: Since there is no hydraulic fluid to check, EPAS reduces the potential for leaks. If a fault arises, the dashboard may show an EPS warning and the system may revert to manual steering or reduced-assist mode.
- Driving feel and diagnostics: Some drivers notice a slightly different steering feel compared with hydraulic systems, especially as the battery voltage changes or with aggressive drive modes; Ford calibrates the feel to match Fiesta handling characteristics.
In practice, EPAS in the Fiesta aims for consistent assist across a wide range of speeds and conditions, while leaving enough feedback for the driver to feel connected to the road.
Model years and regional differences
Power steering in the Fiesta evolved with its generation and regional availability. The following outlines a broad, generic timeline and regional notes.
- Hydraulic steering in older Fiesta variants (pre-EPAS era): Some early models and base trims in certain markets used traditional hydraulic power steering managed by a belt-driven hydraulic pump.
- Intro of EPAS in mid-generation updates: As Ford updated the Fiesta across markets, many trims adopted electric power steering to improve efficiency and enable more precise drive modes.
- EPAS standard by late production: By the end of the Fiesta's global run in most regions, EPAS was the standard configuration on most new Fiests, with hydraulic remaining only in a few very early or specialty configurations.
If you're buying a used Fiesta, ask for the power steering to be tested under different speeds and conditions; warning lights or a stiff or inconsistent feel can indicate EPAS faults or battery-related issues.
Common questions about Fiesta steering
- Q: If the power steering fails, can I still steer the car? A: Yes, but it becomes much heavier at all speeds, and you should pull over safely and inspect the system or call for service.
- Q: Will a dead battery affect EPAS? A: Yes. EPAS relies on the 12V electrical system; if the battery is weak, steering assist can feel inconsistent or go out temporarily.
- Q: Do all Fiests have EPAS? A: Most modern Fiests do, but very early pre-EPAS models or certain markets may still use hydraulic PS; check the vehicle’s spec sheet or VIN.
Summary
The Ford Fiesta largely relies on electric power-assisted steering in its modern iterations, a shift from older hydraulic systems. EPAS offers efficiency, variable steering effort, and integration with driver-assistance features, while being largely transparent to the driver. If you’re buying a used Fiesta, test the system under real driving conditions and watch for warning lights or unusual steering behavior.
