What is the Ford power steering lawsuit?
Several lawsuits allege that Ford’s electric power steering systems (EPS/EPAS) can fail, removing or reducing steering assist and raising crash risk. Plaintiffs have pursued class actions and individual claims, sometimes in tandem with recalls and regulatory reviews.
What the lawsuits claim
There are several recurring allegations across lawsuits and notices. Below is an overview of the common themes plaintiffs have raised.
Electric power steering explained
Electric power steering (EPS) uses an electric motor to provide steering assistance, controlled by sensors and a controller. Defects allegedly involve the motor, wiring, control module, or software, which may lead to a sudden or intermittent loss of steering assist, especially during maneuvering at low speeds.
- Loss of steering assist due to EPS/EPAS motor or controller failure, sometimes without warning
- Sudden, hard, or intermittent steering resistance that can surprise drivers
- Wiring or component failures that may disable steering assistance while in motion
- Requests for repair costs or warranty coverage beyond typical scopes
- Perceived safety risk and potential for crashes or near-misses
These claims focus on safety concerns, repair responsibilities, and whether Ford should have provided warnings or more extensive fixes.
Which models and years are affected
In broad terms, lawsuits and recalls have involved Ford vehicles that rely on EPS/EPAS systems across several model lines and years. The exact models and timeframes vary by case, and owners should verify recall status and VIN-specific eligibility with Ford or NHTSA.
Legal status and outcomes
The litigation includes federal class actions, state-court suits, and regulatory reviews. Outcomes range from recalls and service campaigns to settlements and ongoing litigation. Ford has defended the safety and reliability of its EPS/EPAS systems while offering recalls, diagnostics, and warranty considerations where appropriate.
Because these cases and recalls evolve, owners should monitor court dockets, regulatory notices, and official company statements for the latest developments.
What Ford says
Ford has contended that its EPS/EPAS systems meet safety and performance standards and that issues are typically addressed through recalls and service campaigns, often under warranty. The company emphasizes that steering remains controllable within normal operating tolerances and urges owners to seek service if steering abnormalities occur.
What consumers can do
If you own a Ford vehicle with EPS/EPAS, you can take these steps to protect yourself and any potential claim.
- Check for recalls and service campaigns using your vehicle identification number (VIN) on NHTSA’s website or Ford’s recall pages.
- Schedule a diagnostic with your local dealer if you notice steering issues, such as stiffness, loss of assist, or unusual noises.
- Keep detailed records of all steering-related incidents, repairs, and communications with Ford or your dealer.
- Consult a consumer or automotive attorney if you believe you have a qualifying claim, especially if a crash or near-miss occurred.
Concluding paragraph: Being proactive about recalls and documentation can help you address EPS issues, determine eligibility for service, and assess any potential compensation.
Additional resources
For the latest information, consult these official sources and reputable consumer outlets:
- NHTSA recalls and investigations database
- Ford Motor Company official recall and service campaign pages
- Consumer protection and consumer-law resources that track class actions and settlements
Concluding paragraph: Regularly checking these resources keeps you informed about newly identified EPS issues, remedies, and eligibility for repairs or compensation.
Summary
Ford power steering lawsuits center on alleged defects in electric power steering systems (EPS/EPAS) that can cause a loss of steering assist. The actions include class actions, individual lawsuits, and recalls, with varying outcomes. If you own a Ford vehicle equipped with EPS/EPAS, verify recalls, monitor steering performance, and seek professional guidance if you experience steering issues.
