What is the power steering issue with Ford?
Quick take: Ford's power steering problems primarily involve the electric power-assisted steering (EPAS) system, which can lose steering assist and leave a vehicle with heavier steering, potentially affecting maneuverability. Ford has addressed these faults through recalls, software updates, and component replacements when needed.
Beyond the basics, the issue spans a range of model years and configurations, with investigations and service actions led by Ford and overseen by safety regulators. The exact vehicles affected depend on production details and VIN, so owners should verify status via official sources. This article provides a current overview of what EPAS is, how failures manifest, and what steps drivers can take.
Understanding EPAS and how it can fail
This list highlights common signs, likely causes, and how the system behaves in the field.
- Loss of steering assist, especially at low speeds, making steering feel heavier than normal.
- Intermittent or persistent warning messages such as "Power Steering Assist Fault" or "Service Power Steering" on the dashboard.
- Unusual noises from the steering column or EPAS motor, or a noticeably heavier-than-usual steering feel.
- Electrical faults or fault codes related to the EPAS controller or steering angle sensor accessible through the vehicle’s onboard diagnostics.
- Potential safety risk if the fault occurs while driving, requiring additional driver effort to steer the vehicle.
Conclusion: The underlying problem is tied to Ford’s electric power-assisted steering hardware or software, including the EPAS motor, sensors, wiring, or control modules. Solutions can range from software updates to hardware replacements, depending on the specific vehicle and fault.
Recalls, service actions and Ford’s response
Ford has issued multiple recalls and service bulletins addressing EPAS-related faults. The exact vehicles affected depend on VIN and production dates, so a VIN-specific check is essential.
- Recall campaigns across several model years to address loss of steering assist, often involving updates to the EPAS control module or, in some cases, replacement of steering gear.
- Software updates to refine steering assistance and sensor calibration, which can sometimes be performed without replacing major components.
- In certain cases, replacement of the EPAS motor or entire steering column assembly to restore reliable steering.
- Owners can verify status via NHTSA’s recall lookup or Ford’s owner portal, with eligible repairs performed at no cost under recall or warranty coverage.
Conclusion: Ford’s approach combines software refinements with selective hardware replacements under recall and service programs. The specific remedy depends on the affected model and VIN, so VIN-based verification is vital.
What to do if you experience steering problems
If you notice steering issues or warning lights, act safely and promptly to minimize risk.
- Safely pull over and assess the situation; avoid driving long distances if steering feels compromised.
- Check for active recalls or service notices using your vehicle’s VIN on NHTSA’s site or Ford’s official owner portals.
- Contact your Ford dealer or a qualified technician to diagnose the EPAS system and determine whether software updates or component replacement is required.
- Proceed with the recommended repair under any applicable warranty or recall coverage.
- Avoid high-stress driving conditions (high speeds, heavy traffic) until the issue is resolved.
Conclusion: Prompt, professional diagnosis and adherence to recall/service guidance are essential for safety and to restore normal steering performance.
For buyers and owners: How to verify EPAS status
Before purchasing a used Ford or while owning one, check the vehicle’s EPAS status and recall history to gauge safety and reliability.
- Use the VIN-based recall lookup on the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) Safer Car portal to identify active or past EPAS-related campaigns.
- Log in to Ford’s official owner portals (FordPass or Ford Owner) to view recall notices and service history tied to your vehicle.
- Consult with a Ford dealer for a VIN-specific EPAS diagnostic and confirmation of any required updates or replacements.
- Review warranty details and any extended coverage Ford may offer for EPAS components in your region.
Conclusion: A VIN-driven verification approach helps ensure you understand whether a Ford with EPAS issues has been addressed and what costs (if any) remain covered.
Summary
Ford’s power steering issues center on the EPAS system, which can lose steering assist due to hardware or software faults. The company has responded with recalls, service bulletins, and software updates, with some repairs requiring replacement of the EPAS motor or steering column. Drivers should monitor for warning lights, test drive cautiously if steering feels heavier, and verify recall status using official sources. For prospective buyers, checking the VIN for EPAS-related recalls and service history is a prudent step in assessing a Ford’s safety and reliability.
How to reset Ford power steering?
And wait 5 seconds. And return the steering wheel to. Center. Turn off the car. Turn it back on. And test to see that your power steering feels much more fluid.
What is the class action lawsuit against Ford power steering?
Consumers have slapped Ford Motor Co. with a putative class action in a California federal district court, claiming the automaker equipped its Focus and Fusion models with a defective power steering system is prone to sudden failure that leaves drivers unable to control their cars.
Does Ford have a recall on power steering?
Ford has issued a number of recalls involving hundreds of thousands of models in its lineup. The various defects in question involve the electric power steering systems of the following models: Ford Explorer: from model years 2011 to 2017, due to persistent electric power steering issues.
What is the problem with Ford electric power steering?
Ford says an intermittent electrical connection can cause the power steering to stop. That sends the steering into manual mode, making the vehicles harder to control. The company says it knows of four crashes due to the problem but no injuries.
