Does the Mustang have power steering?
Yes. Modern Ford Mustangs use electric power-assisted steering (EPAS). Earlier models relied on hydraulic power steering (HPS) or manual steering. The steering system has evolved across generations, with EPAS now standard on most 2015-and-newer Mustangs.
Across the decades, Ford offered steering options that shifted from manual to hydraulic to electric. This article explains what you should know about Mustang steering today, including what to expect if you’re shopping for a used model.
How power steering has evolved in the Mustang
From the pony car’s earliest days to the present, Ford’s steering technology has moved from manual to hydraulic to electric. Here’s a snapshot by era.
- Classic Mustangs (1960s-1970s): Some early cars offered manual steering, while hydraulic power steering became available as an option on later models to ease steering effort.
- Late 1980s-2004: Hydraulic power steering remained common, using a pump and fluid to assist steering input.
- 2005-2014: Hydraulic power steering continued across most trims of the fifth-generation Mustang (S197); the system provided consistent steering feel but required regular maintenance (fluid checks, potential leaks).
- 2015-present: Electric power-assisted steering (EPAS) became standard on the sixth-generation Mustang (S550/S650); EPAS uses an electric motor to provide assist and can vary the level of assist based on driving mode and speed.
In short, if you’re looking at a newer Mustang, expect EPAS; older cars are more likely to use hydraulic power steering or manual steering.
Maintenance and driving experience
Understanding how EPAS compares with hydraulic power steering helps with maintenance decisions and driving expectations. The following points cover the basics and practical tips.
- Electric power steering (EPAS): No hydraulic fluid or pump to service; the system uses an electric motor and wheel-speed sensors. Benefits include improved fuel efficiency and consistent steering effort, with drivers able to select driving modes that alter assist levels.
- Hydraulic power steering (HPS): Uses a hydraulic pump, fluid, hoses, and a steering rack. Pros include a traditional steering feel and quick feedback; cons include potential fluid leaks, pump noise, and energy consumption that can affect fuel economy.
- Common issues and maintenance: EPAS failures may manifest as a loss of power assist or steering warning lights, often requiring dealer-level diagnosis; hydraulic systems can leak or lose fluid, causing stiff steering or noise. Regular inspection of belts, hoses, and fluid (for HPS) is recommended; EPAS components are generally more sealed but still require professional service if faults occur.
Whether you own an older classic or a modern performance model, recognizing the difference in steering systems helps you plan maintenance and manage expectations for feel and reliability.
Bottom line for shoppers and drivers
As a buyer or daily driver, you should confirm the exact model year and trim to know which steering system your Mustang uses. If you’re shopping used, expect hydraulic PS on pre-2015 models and EPAS on 2015 and later models. Test-drive to feel the difference between normal and sport modes, and budget for maintenance accordingly.
Summary
Power steering in Mustangs has evolved from manual and hydraulic setups to modern electric power-assisted steering. Today, virtually all new Mustangs use EPAS, delivering variable assist and improved efficiency, while older examples rely on hydraulic systems with different maintenance needs. Understanding the year and trim helps you anticipate steering feel, maintenance requirements, and potential issues.
