What is the Ford steering Assist Fault recall 2017?

In 2017, Ford issued recalls addressing a fault in the electric power steering (EPS) system that could reduce steering assist and raise crash risk. The scope covered multiple models and model years, and owners should verify their vehicle's recall status by VIN to determine eligibility for a free repair.

What the recall covers and why it mattered

The recall centers on a problem with the steering assist system, also known as electric power steering. If the EPS module or its wiring malfunctions, power-assisted steering can be reduced or lost, making steering heavier and potentially harder to control, especially at low speeds. Ford and safety regulators issued notices in 2017 to fix these faults across affected vehicles. The remedy typically involved replacing faulty EPS components or applying software updates to the EPS control module.

How the steering assist system works and why faults occur

Electric power steering uses an electric motor to provide steering assist based on vehicle speed and steering input. A fault in the EPS module, its wiring harness, or related sensors can cause intermittent or persistent loss of assist. In some cases, drivers may notice increased steering effort, a warning light on the dash, or unusual noises from the steering system. Because steering is fundamental to vehicle control, recalls aim to address these failures before they lead to an accident.

Why 2017 saw multiple recall actions

The 2017 recalls reflect Ford’s response to EPS-related safety concerns identified in certain vehicles produced in the surrounding years. Campaigns were issued by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Ford to ensure the EPS system could be repaired or updated to restore proper steering assist. The exact models and VIN ranges varied by campaign, and affected owners were notified with instructions to bring their vehicle to a dealer for a free inspection and repair.

Which models were affected in 2017 recall campaigns

Ford issued several recall campaigns in 2017 addressing steering assist faults across a range of models and model years. Because the affected vehicles were identified by specific VIN ranges in each recall notice, the best way to determine if your car is included is to check your VIN against official recall listings. If you share your model and year, I can help narrow down the likely campaigns, but the definitive source is the VIN-based lookup on safety databases.

How to check if your vehicle is affected

To determine whether your Ford vehicle is part of a 2017 steering assist recall, use these steps:

• Enter your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) on official recall lookup sites to see active or past campaigns.


• Visit the Ford Owner’s Recall Status page and input your VIN for personalized recall information.


• Contact a Ford dealer with your VIN to confirm eligibility and schedule a free inspection and repair if required.


• Be aware of common symptoms such as a sudden dash warning light, stiff or heavy steering, or unusual noises from the steering column.

If your vehicle is affected, Ford will perform the repair at no cost to you, typically by replacing the EPS components or applying a software update to the EPS control module.

What to expect during the repair process

Remedies for EPS-related steering assist faults generally follow a standard process, though specifics depend on the campaign and the vehicle. A dealer visit will usually involve:

• Diagnostics to confirm the EPS fault and reading of fault codes.


• Replacement or repair of faulty EPS hardware (module, harness, or related components) and/or software reprogramming of the EPS control unit.


• Testing of steering performance and confirmation that the fault is cleared.


• Comprehensive documentation of the repair for your records and future resale.

Tip: bring any notices you received from NHTSA or Ford, and have your VIN ready when you call the dealer. Repairs are performed at no charge under the recall.

Safety guidance and consumer resources

Until the recall work is completed, be mindful of steering behavior. If you experience heavy steering, a persistent loss of steering assist, or warning lights, pull over safely and contact a Ford dealer or roadside assistance. Stay informed with official resources for the latest recall status:

• National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recall lookup: https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls


• Ford Owner recall information portal: access via your Ford Owner account or visit the Ford recall status page to enter your VIN

Remember that recall information is updated as investigations continue, so checking your VIN regularly ensures you have the latest status and next steps.

Summary

The 2017 Ford Steering Assist Fault recalls addressed potential failures in the electric power steering system that could compromise steering effort and control. While specifics varied by recall campaign, the core remedy involved inspecting and repairing or updating the EPS hardware and software at no cost to the vehicle owner. The surest way to know if a particular vehicle is affected is to check the VIN against official recall listings via NHTSA or Ford’s recall portals, and to contact a local Ford dealer for the required service.

Bottom line: If your Ford from that era might be involved, act on recall notices promptly to ensure optimal steering performance and safety on the road.

What does steering assist fault service required mean?

A "steering assist fault service required" message means there is an issue with your vehicle's power steering system, which could lead to loss of power assist and make steering difficult or impossible. This is most commonly caused by problems with the electric power steering (EPS) system, such as a failing EPS motor, low battery voltage, or a faulty torque sensor. It is crucial to have this checked and fixed promptly to avoid safety risks. 
This video explains the causes and fixes for a steering assist fault: 58sTopicMotorYouTube · Dec 30, 2024
Potential causes

• Low battery voltage: Insufficient power can disable the power steering system. Check that your battery is in good health and that the charging system is working correctly. 
• Faulty steering components: The issue could be a failing EPS motor, a bad torque sensor, or a malfunctioning steering gear. 
• Wiring and module problems: Loose or corroded wiring, or a fault in the EPS control module, can cause communication errors and trigger the warning. 
• Sensor calibration: The system may require recalibration if the steering wheel is not centered or if a steering angle sensor has lost its calibration. 

What you should do

1. Check your battery: A simple first step is to have your battery and charging system tested, as low voltage is a frequent cause of this error. 
2. Listen for symptoms: Pay attention to when the warning appears. If it happens during or after tight turns, it could point to a problem with the torque sensor or EPS motor. 
3. Get a diagnostic scan: Have a professional scan the vehicle's computer for specific trouble codes. This can help pinpoint the exact component that is failing. 
4. Seek professional service: If the problem is not a simple fix like low voltage or a loose connection, it will likely require professional diagnosis and repair, which may include replacing a sensor or the entire steering assembly. 

You can also watch this video to learn how to reset the steering assist system: 56sMike Biker CanadaYouTube · Sep 2, 2025

How much does it cost to fix the power steering assist fault?

Average Cost to Repair or Replace Electric Power Steering
On average, repairs range from $500 to $2,000, depending on your vehicle and labor rates. Luxury models or vehicles with advanced driver-assist systems fall on the higher end of the range.

What is the Ford steering Assist Fault recall?

Reasons For the Ford Steering Recall
Electrical Short Circuits: Power steering control modules fail when the wiring is defective, causing a sudden loss of steering assistance. The driver may not be warned by immediate alerts on the dashboard after such failure.

What is the steering assist fault service required on a 2017 Ford f150?

A "2017 Ford F-150 steering assist fault service required" message indicates a problem with the electric power steering (EPS) system, often caused by a low battery, faulty sensors (like the steering angle or wheel speed sensors), or issues with the EPS control module or motor. The first step is to check the battery voltage, and if the issue is persistent, professional diagnosis by scanning for diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) is recommended.
 
This video explains the common causes and potential fixes for the steering assist fault warning: 56sMystery Mechanic YouTube · Oct 17, 2025
Possible causes

• Low battery voltage: Low voltage during startup can trigger the warning. 
• Faulty sensors: The steering angle sensor, wheel speed sensors, or torque sensor on the steering column can malfunction. 
• Wiring issues: Damaged or loose wiring, especially in the harness, can cause a loss of signal. 
• EPS control module or motor: The EPS control module or motor itself may have failed, which is a common issue in these trucks. 
• Other related systems: Sometimes, faults in the ABS or pre-collision assist systems can trigger the steering assist warning. 

Troubleshooting steps

1. Check the battery: A weak battery is a common cause. Have the battery and alternator tested. 
2. Restart the system: If the message briefly appears and then goes away after restarting, it might be a temporary glitch. 
3. Scan for trouble codes: Use a diagnostic scanner to check for specific trouble codes that will point to the exact component that is failing. 
4. Inspect wiring: Check for any visible damage or loose connections in the wiring harness, especially around the steering column and wheel hubs. 
5. Check fuses and relays: Inspect the EPS fuse and relay for any signs of damage or corrosion. 

Professional service

• If basic checks don't resolve the issue, consult a professional. They can accurately diagnose the problem by reading DTCs and can fix or replace faulty components like the EPS motor or sensors.
• The cost for diagnosis can be around $100, but the cost to repair depends on the specific part that needs replacement, with parts like the EPS motor or steering rack being more expensive. 

This video demonstrates how to reset the steering assist fault warning using an OBD2 scanner: 1mNexologyYouTube · Aug 17, 2025