What does steering assist fault mean on a Ford?
As a seasoned auto service provider, I often encounter various warning lights and messages that can leave drivers puzzled. One such message is the "Steering Assist Fault" warning, which can be alarming for Ford vehicle owners. In this article, we will delve into what this fault means, its potential causes, and what steps you can take if you encounter this issue.
What is Steering Assist Fault?
The "Steering Assist Fault" message indicates that there is a problem with the power steering system in your Ford vehicle. This system is crucial for providing the necessary assistance to turn the steering wheel, making it easier to maneuver the vehicle. When this fault occurs, you may experience a heavier steering feel, making it more challenging to drive, especially at low speeds.
Common Causes of Steering Assist Fault
There are several reasons why you might see the "Steering Assist Fault" warning on your dashboard:
- Electrical Issues: Problems with the electrical connections or wiring related to the power steering system can trigger this fault.
- Power Steering Fluid Levels: Low power steering fluid can lead to insufficient assistance, causing the fault to appear.
- Faulty Power Steering Pump: A malfunctioning pump can fail to provide the necessary pressure for steering assistance.
- Sensor Malfunctions: The steering angle sensor or other related sensors may be faulty, leading to incorrect readings and triggering the warning.
- Software Issues: Sometimes, a software glitch in the vehicle's computer system can cause the steering assist to malfunction.
What to Do If You Encounter This Fault
If you see the "Steering Assist Fault" warning, it’s essential to take the following steps:
- Check Power Steering Fluid: Ensure that the power steering fluid is at the appropriate level. If it’s low, top it up with the recommended fluid.
- Inspect for Leaks: Look for any signs of fluid leaks around the power steering system.
- Restart the Vehicle: Sometimes, simply turning off the engine and restarting it can reset the system and clear the fault.
- Consult a Professional: If the warning persists, it’s crucial to take your vehicle to a qualified mechanic for a thorough diagnosis and repair.
Conclusion
The "Steering Assist Fault" warning on your Ford is not something to ignore. Understanding its implications and knowing the steps to take can help ensure your safety on the road. Regular maintenance and prompt attention to warning signs can prevent more significant issues down the line. If you have any concerns or need assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out to a trusted auto service provider.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I drive my car with a power steering fault?
If your car does use hydraulic steering, you can still drive it, but it will feel a lot heavier and require a lot more effort just to turn the wheel.
How to fix power steering fault on Ford?
You can try disconnecting the battery cables and touching them together for 10 seconds. If this does not work then the power steering control module will need to be scanned for codes. Most common failure for this concern is the steering gear.
How much does it cost to fix the power steering assist fault?
The average cost for a Power Steering Control Module Replacement is between $984 and $1,013. Labor costs are estimated between $112 and $141 while parts are typically priced around $872. This range does not include taxes and fees, and does not factor in your unique location. Related repairs may also be needed.
What is the Ford steering Assist Fault recall?
An intermittent electrical connection caused by quality issues pertaining to conformal coat contamination and ribbon cable pin misalignment within the steering gear Motor may lead to a loss of the Motor position sensor signal that may result in loss of power steering assist.
Can I drive my car with power steering assist fault Ford?
Yes, you can drive the vehicle. No harm will be done to any other items. The only drawback is the lack of power assist.
What is the recall on Ford power steering assist fault?
An intermittent electrical connection caused by quality issues pertaining to conformal coat contamination and ribbon cable pin misalignment within the steering gear Motor may lead to a loss of the Motor position sensor signal that may result in loss of power steering assist.
What is the warning steering fault?
The warning lamp lights up or flashes red. There is a fault in the electromechanical steering or electronic steering column lock. Do not drive on!
What causes a steering assist fault?
Bad wheel alignment, or misaligned wheels, can trick the computer into thinking there's an issue in the steering angle sensor. This prompts the power steering assist fault message to appear.
How to reset power steering assist fault?
Restarting the vehicle is the simplest method to reset the warning. This will reset the power steering pump system's related electrical components.
How do you clear a power steering fault?
How To Fix Power Steering Warning Light? Step-by-Step DIY Process
- Step 1: Check the Power Steering Fluid Level (Hydraulic Systems)
- Step 2: Inspect for Leaks.
- Step 3: Check the Power Steering Belt (Hydraulic Systems)
- Step 4: Test the Electrical Connections (Electric Power Steering Systems)
- Step 5: Reset the System.
