My 2012 ford fusion power steering failed this week, while i was out of town, cost me 3 days in hotel and $1600 to fix it. There was a recall on the rack and pinon power steering module for half a million cars but for some reason my car was not on that list. Ford really needs to be sued over this because it very dangerous.
Same thing with my 2012 ford fusion. Ford said that there are no recalls on my car but they put an extended warranty on my car for the rack and pinion... I have no idea what they meant but it may or may not be covered by ford.
3 minutes in...I was thinking this guy has to be an electrical engineer. I've never come across anyone on any video, so well spoken and as confident with descriptive nomenclature. Although Ford, like most large corporations, give zero fucks, great assessment and diagnosis.
Top notch video... 6yrs later, here I am with a 2014 Ford Fusion... thought I was a dead man for sure as I lost steering during in town driving. I am furious that this was even a possible thing. Doubt there is a recall but I am going to hope that Ford is willing to deal with this issue. Hope all is well brother! 👊🧡👍
After 150k ford will touch it most time get buy clearing code change our tps sensor or front tires also male sure battery is very good not weak batter also you can take both cables off the cat for hour or 2 make sure tie both of them touching. Have 2011 model. Done everything 😅😅 what help me was I took the battery out one day replacing it with agm battery and decide try tie both together. And at had problems with it long long time that was at 180k miles am at 268k miles. Hole time had this car that only major problems had with it they are great great vechles. Only year I'll buy is 2011. 2012 models mabe 2013. 2014 and Up has bad transmission problems not one time I had any problems out the motor beside change starter one time oil changes ... I have 2011 sel 2.0 or 2.5. Live find the s Verizon if any one has s model like to sell let me know love also if was stick shift
EPAS Steering failure is a huge Safety concern and could potentially cause lives whilst in motion. I am an Electrical engineer too and I can attest to the fact that you're spot-on. Thermal stress is the culprit. Your video presentation was top-notch and well detailed. Fault condition on Steering power assist on my Ford Taurus brought me here. Ford is probably not implementing industry-grade power MOSFET rated for harsh operating environment. Also, there is definitely a design flaw with heat sink configuration but Ford will never own up, just to protect their bottom line. I'm done buying Ford vehicle forever!
Can you share some symptoms? I bought a used 2016 Ford Explorer (my first ever Ford product), it just hit 89k mileage but my steering makes kinda grinding noise when I turn the steering wheel (both right and left) even when the car is parked. The noise got worse and the steering wheel somewhat got stiffer after a month of parking outside (1 month vacation).
Best video. Why no one know why ford steering keeps going out. So for a year no one knew why my Steering wheel was not I Check everything and could find nothing all of the computer button stopped working. So one day look at this same steering wheel column that’s under my car and it was cracked. That one item can cause the whole to not run right. Good wish I would be seen this. Took a year to figure out why my steering wasn’t working
Update 2011 Lincoln Mkt 3.5L Ecoboost, Canada edition. The second Epas steering unit in my vehicle that Ford installed was a refurbished unit. I found out from a service rep that Ford will replace the Epas unit with a rebuilt unit if you do not specifically tell them you want a new unit. The refurbished unit costs more than the new unit and the warranty is only for three (3) months. A new unit cost a few hundred dollars less but the warranty is for two (2) years. One year and five (5) months later the second refurbished Epas unit failed. I replaced it with a third epas unit and filed a formal complaint with Ford Canada. These Epas units are expensive. After a battle back and forth, I received a Partial settlement of $1500 CDN. The payment was voucher check, not cash which means you have to spend it at Ford. I needed a few more repairs on the lincoln so I used part of the voucher check on the repairs. On paying the bill, the service manager told me to contact ford for the balance of the check (@$375), since the repair cost did not use the full amount of the check. The next week ford contacted me saying the fine print stated the the full amount of the voucher check must be used as no cash is refund allowed. They gave me an option, the balanced could be transfered to the "Lincoln Loyalty Program" if I signed up. I red the program previously (like reading a noval), and turned it down. 2015 ford vehicles and above under the program are tracted by ford, interesting? My Lincoln has 102k easy mi. Is in great shape yet has cost a small fortune in mechanical repairs, not particularly reliable or trouble free. From experience, I do not feel that ford loyaly treats me so why would I? Looking for a Toyota for my next vehicle. Check Consumes Report "Best Car Ratings" I will submit my complaint with the Canada BBB.
Totally feel your pain... that is a whole lot of Fk around... terrible business practice. May you have better fortune with the choices ahead. I look at a vehicle and yt the hell out of it by searching top 5-10 issues, so I know in advance what is coming my way in due time lol 👊🧡👍
I must say you are the most intelligent person I've been able to find regarding electronic power steering. As an electrical engineer I was hoping you could shed some light on a problem I have I have a Dodge Challenger RT 2012. I had my tires changed last year and I also had the alignment adjusted. Ever since then - under normal conditions I feel about a 5% reduction in power assist when turning to the left. Then I found that several weeks later, while braking for a quick U-turn, I lost 100% of power assist and had to MUSCLE my way through the turn. I lose all power while braking and turning to the left. Since then, it is starting to affect right turns a little while braking, but no where near as badly as left turns. I since moved to Germany and I had it looked at by an American mechanic on base, and the Dodge dealership mechanics here. Neither could find a problem or offer a solution. The American theorized that when they did the allignment, the computer in the car is confused as to where dead center is. I have a feeling it is the computer chip as well because the power assist works under normal conditions. So while would it fail while braking if it was a mechanical issue? As you mentioned, these parts are expensive, so I don't want to go chasing good money after bad. Do you have any suggestions as to what these mechanics should be doing to fix it? Computer or steering rack (or both) ouch!
I have a Ford Escape SEL 2012. Was driving and the power steering failed, became stiff and required extra power and effort to control the steering wheel. Saw a message on the dash board that says steering assist failure. The diagnosis was that I have to replace this parts and estimated cost of repair is at least $1600. Thanks for your video I won't touch any ford product with a long stick
Exceptional analysis. I work in electronic engineering as well. Also having the same problem with my f150 eps. Replaced the entire unit and the second one lasted less than 24hrs.
Thank you for the time you took to research and explain all that you learned about this problem. I have a 2013 Lincoln MKS doing the exact same thing....every thing you said made sense.
I own a 2010 Fusion 3.0L V6, 117,000 miles. I've read many times that this happens when the TPMS senses low tire pressure. One guy took it in to a Ford dealership three times and was charged about $100 each time for diagnostics but there was nothing to repair, they just reset the hard fault code. No way to reset the code yourself without a $3500 IDS scan tool. I went on vacation for a week and when I returned I took the Fusion to the grocery store. My Fusion had low tire pressure indicator and the power steering was out and the battery was dying. I had to jump the battery when I left the store and ended up replacing the battery the next day. Even after leaving the cables off the battery for some time the power steering would not reset (still says "Service Advantech" or whatever). Does low tire pressure cause the servo motor to work extra hard and then overheat?!? Thank you Bryon for continuing to follow up with new information. Any suggestions to convince the dealer to not charge me to reset the fault code? Should my next step be to get rid of this car? I wish I could afford a Tesla
David B I’m just soo mad about everything I’m hearing on here about these fords. Just brought a 2011 Ford Fusion come to find out its a recall on the power steering that has expired now I see why they sold it. I refuse to put more money and more money into these problems and still more problems come up. So I believe I’m gonna sell it and I will never again buy a ford of any kind again. I was always told that fords wasn’t good vehicle tried to give it the benefit of a doubt bad decision should’ve listened
At 107,000 miles, my F-150 XLT power steering began failing intermittently and without warning. After a trip to the dealer and a $2,000 check, they sent me home with a new EPAS unit. Then, grinding and popping noises began to come from the same front-end, driver's side location. $700.00 later I had a new solenoid and other various and as sundry components replaced. Still the grinding noises. So, $600.00 and a wheel bearing replaced. Hallelujah! The noises stopped. A week after my 3rd visit with issues, my steering goes out immediately while I was making a left-hand turn crossing over oncoming traffic. I had not moves but to drive the truck up and over the curb and into a parking lot, where thankfully, there was a spot that I could muscle my non-steering truck into without wrecking it or running over somebody. Now I've returned said truck yet again to my dealership. Here's thing, people, the guys in the garage CANNOT fix this problem. Do even a small amount of research on your own and you will see that this EPAS problem is systemic and long-ranging with Ford. The company, for reasons that can only be tracked to money, refuse to acknowledge that across their entire line of models lurks a potential killer...a steering system that randomly goes out without notice. I'm a good side man and each time this has happened, its a wrestling match with the wheel to get the truck safely stopped and parked. I have owned Ford's for 25 years, but I'm done. As I write this my F-150 is still in the shop, while they try to find a way to explain to me that my $2,000.00 did nothing but buy me a newer POS part to replace the older POS part that was already on my truck. I almost feel sorry for my Service Tech, Mike Coody, at Gwinnett Place Ford in Duluth, GA, because I have all the data that shows him that I know what Ford is hiding, and he has to try and sell me to have confidence that Ford has this figured out. Wrong. This is one of the most informative videos of this issue. Search the Internet for EPAS Failure, Power Steering Failure Ford, and other word combinations. Thousands...Thousands of vehicles have this problem. My next truck will be a Nissan Titan. I've had it. I can buy Ford's on the Z-plan, which saves me $$$'s....but when they lie about systemic issues, hide dangerous engineering failures from their customers....I'm leaving the brand. Kenneth Hall, Cumming, GA
EPAS steering gear failures will begin to spike as MTBF (mean time before failure) associated with overheated electrical components kicks in. It is inevitable that Ford will experience large instance of failures on a standard 'bell-curve'. Replacement units are the same TRW design; place new unit in an overheated engine compartment and same failure will repeat in time. Ford is counting on this time to allow warranty's to expire. Then consumers have no recourse other than waiting for NHTSA action. The NHTSA is staffed by bureaucrats and statisticians. From what I have seen in correspondence between Ford and NHTSA; NHTSA allows Ford to conduct their own fault investigations; in addition to defining final dispositions, and publishing of investigative results. Ford is allowed complete ownership of the fault issue which clearly results in blatant falsification of fault analysis, and minimal corrective action to Ford's benefit. NHTSA officials believe anything Ford tells them; as long as an official report is filed and key 'buzz words are included. I found your report interesting in that you indicate how difficult it is to man-handle failed steering gear at low speeds and static in larger vehicles. This has been a primary point with me for some time. It is interesting to note that during Ford / NHTSA investigation; Ford was asked to supply a vehicle with failed EPAS steering; so NHTSA staff may test manual steering effort. The vehicle supplied by Ford was one of the smallest and less massive vehicles Ford manufactures. Apparently NHTSA staff never detected they were out maneuvered.
Trust me the issue is general not just ford alone, it also happened with Lexus, mostly the IS model i have one in my garage now sitting there because lexus charge me $5000+ to replace the steering rack and computer and obviously this is lexus fault replace the old style rack with electronics just for efficiency purpose. i realize my got locked when making left turn, i was lucky not o highway. i think is high time people speak against this, looks to me like accident waiting to happen, and now am not comfortable enough with any electronic power steering .
I am here because our 2013 Ford Explorer Electric Power Steering just stopped working this weekend like everyone else has experienced in this comment stream. You did a very good job of detailing the history of this debacle and the mechanical explanation followed by denial from Ford. I now have become another sad statistic in this massive Ford Conspiracy and we are all on our own. Well explained Mr. Smith . I thank you for the time and research you have put into this video feed. You may have saved lives with this information. The only thing we can do is tell everyone and never buy a vehicle with these steering systems. This is the last Ford my anyone in my family will buy.
@@bk1468 You bet! The bill from our Ford Dealer was $3178.00 and only 2 year warranty. I requested they stand behind the product and at least provide 4 years for what it just cost. They use every excuse and deny taking responsibility.. Unfortunately all the manufacturers now use some for of Electric Power Assist Systems. It's such a great cash grab when they fail.
I was just about killed tonight in my 2010 Ford Taurus SHO when suddenly during a lane change the steering wheel appeared jammed in a right position, I nearly took out 3 incoming cars and ended up in the middle of a parking lot simply by luck. When I looked at the dashboard it said something like Power assist fault, I turned the car off to collect my thoughts and restarted the vehicle and everything was fine. Two days ago my wife and young son were on the interstate and I can only imagine if this had happened to them they could have been killed. I have only 42,000 miles on this car, I bought it new. After watching your video I am shocked that Ford would take such a position on pre 2011 vehicles with this EPAS system. I am curious if you ever had any luck with Ford. Thanks for your great video, I appreciate it.
You can still steer the vehicle when the epas fails. All you guys just can't damn drive without power steering it doesn't sound like. I literally just did an entire drift event with no epas in my 2015 mustang
@@themustangfactory shut the fuck up. The electronic power steering doesn't just go out, it goes full power to one side or the other when it fails before it shuts the module off. I don't care how strong you think you are, you aren't going to overpower that big ass DC motor. No one cares about your faggy fucking drift event either.
I have a Ford mariner that right now is a piece of crap, good for nothing due to the cost of repairs from this electric assisted steering wheel. Don't want to buy a Ford any more. Thank you for your video!
I appreciate you brother for being so detailed and thorough. Thank you. I've had my 2014 ford focus se for about a year now, second owner, and I swear I'm ready to trade it in because there are a few malfunctions that I am concerned about. Not only am I experiencing the EPAS failure, but as you mentioned in your description about tires etc, it all makes sense. I feel cheated our of a ride man.
My wife 2012 ford Fusion just had this failure yesterday. Incredible that they are not taking this issue seriously. But they sure take Airbag recalls seriously though which she just got in the mail today. 😡😡
Airbag recalls specifically associated with Takata (Japan based manufacturer). Takata forced into bankruptcy by US safety regulatory agencies. Since your faulty EPAS system was designed in US by TRW and integrated on vehicle systems by Ford; no action will be taken by any US based safety regulatory agency against Ford or TRW; this consumer safety action would hurt US based Ford's $200B market capital. It's all money and image game; consumers suffer both financial and hazard burden.
I have a 2012 Ford Focus sel. I was driving and the steering went out and being it sits so low to the ground was very difficult to turn the wheel. I thank God my daughter wasn’t driving or this could have been disastrous. I called the dealership and was told the mechanic worked there for 15 years and never heard of this happening. That surprised me since I filed a case with the NTHSB and there were thousands of complaints about this. So I guess I am stuck having to come out of pocket for this. Great video by the way kudos
Thank you, good to know video was helpful. Your dealer and mechanic are both liars indicating problem not known. Ford EPAS problems front and center for years, including recalls, court action, news coverage, and millions of vehicles serviced worldwide. Problem is ubiquitous and well documented in Ford TSB's, recalls, and NHTSA historical record. I would ask dealer if they ever heard of the Ford Pinto...
another investigation was started in sept 2016. please file yor complaints about this issue. I did mine today after total failure driving down the highway. thanks for the video and the work you did.
Your welcome, and hope video was helpful. I was not aware of additional investigation in 2016, is the NHTSA involved? Please point to information. Also, please describe your steering failure experience in detail. Were you placed in danger? What year and model?
Great video, you are definitely right! I never even thought about it but my steering motor started acting up a couple months after I started getting a bank 1 catalyst efficiency code on my 2012 explorer. All steming from a poorly designed valve cover allowing oil pass into the intake thus causing the catalytic converter to overheat wich likely caused some type of damage to the poorly designed steering system. Mine is intermittently loosing power assist without setting any codes. So I'm planning on replacing the valve cover , converter and rack all at once. I had never even considered that the exhaust could of caused the steering to fail
I have a 2015 Ford Explorer V6 and we were driving down the highway and our P/S cut out. Power Steering assist failure lights came on, Terrain selector lights came on because of this. Our car had less than 19,000 miles on it. Ford sure isn't what it used to be. Thankfully it was covered under warranty. Thanks for the video. Now I'm curious as to what other catastrophic failure I might expect.
Encountered an oil cooler hose 2 inches from front cat on escapes. Super smart design. Replace only with oem hose. Thanks for the video I am facing similar problem on hybrid.
I own a 2011 Lincoln AWD, MKT 3.5L Ecoboost. Last year I replaced a failed front transfer case with the new Ford modified "C" unit. I also had a failed electric power steering unit replaced, after the steering wheel almost jerked out of my hands going into a left turn. The power steering was dead. After CAA towed it to the ford dealer the unit was replaced in April 2021, however l had to return to the ford dealership four times for adjustments on the steering unit and 4 wheel alignment. Still the problem persisted as the power assist warning light would cause an alarm and light bracking on left turns. Ford could not fix the problem so i did not permit mhy wife to drive the Lincoln for concern for her safty. Last week September 2022, one year and five mouths after the first replacement of the electric steering unit, the electric steering failed a second time as I was pulling out of a parking lot with my wife in the car. She had to assist me in making the right turn. The ford dealership happened to be down the street so I drove it back to them and had them drive us home. The next day I was informed that the lincoln needed another $2,800 electric steering unit and ford would not pay. My 2011 lincoln MKT is currently under a manufacturers safety recall in the USA and Canada. However, ford told the dealership that they will not replace the defective unit as they placed a three month warranty on the steering unit. I have filed a formal complaint with Ford Canada and wait for there reply. (28 September 2022).
Ford has defrauded consumers for years. Your experience is typical and repeated many times over for others posting Ford fraudulent EPAS activities. Ford has established network of specialists including engineers, attorneys, and customer service representatives specifically to evade and repulse customer complaints involving flawed EPAS system failures. Ford engineering and management are acutely aware of EPAS engineering deficiencies, and subsequently developed well maintained plan to defraud customers by actually pulling profit on EPAS repairs. NHTSA is no-show as consumer vehicle safety agency. Fact that EPAS failures are dangerous seems to be of no concern since no one has been killed yet. Or perhaps someone has, and incident has been 'handled' like the Ford Pinto investigation (conducted by Ford). Your best option is to cut losses and stay away from Ford products. EPAS failure could have harmed you or family, do not trust repaired EPAS system. Ford will levy ton of pain and frustration if you pursue warranty repairs.
My son has a 2010 Ford Escape with the exact same issue. Ford said the recall was closed out and I am on my own!!! Lifetime Ford owner just egressed!!!!
Great job and good jod with explanations of this problem.. I own a 2016 ford explorer 2.3 the power steering went out I took it to the Ford dealership for a check up. $2520 to replace I just can't believe this happened its 4 year old. Ford need to step up and fix this problem. There's hundreds of complaints with the same problem. Like you said on your comments.. ' Ford is putting us on risk of injuries or death'. I hope that that's not what they are wanting for it would be a super lawsuit against Ford... And it's not to far away from happening... As for me I would never buy a Ford vehicle not even as a toy.. Great video thanks we need more people like you.
My 2013 Focus SE has this same issue! Full Power Steering loss. The car cannot turn either direction. That issue, along with a continuously failing automatic transmission, makes owning a Ford very frustrating and expensive! Thanks a lot Ford. (And people wonder why Imports are sought after.)
i have a 2005 chevy equinox the epas system is under the steering wheel inside the cab, no heat issues there haven't had any failures and what i like about it is they sell the individual parts motor, computer module, sensors for sells a complete unit for $1350
I have a 2014 Ford Flex with this issue, and it is not included in the recall - which makes no sense, since the recall occurred in 2015, but does not include the 2014 model.
That’s us, ours is a 2014 as well. This happened first on vacation winding roads and mountains. Scary 💩 Ford said can’t find anything. I think they know damn well and we’re all collateral damage. When it happens, if I turn off the car it goes straight back to how it is supposed to be. Now it’s happened this week about three times. We’re supposed to leave on vacation to that Mountain Curvy Road again.
I have a 2014 Ford Flex with the same issue. Very scary situation when you go from normal steering to failure, especially when maneuvering on a curve. I will never buy another Ford again after dealing with this experience.
I have a 2017 Ford focus SE. Ford initiated a buy back program on 2012 - 2016 models with the power shift transmission. My 2017 has the same transmission and the vehicle is not being included in the settlement. This transmission is terrible. Ford replaced the clutch assembly for me under warranty, less than 10,000 miles later the same symptoms are occurring, violent shaking between gear shifts, just 1,000 miles outside of warranty, no concern from Ford at all. I'm being treated as a liability rather than a customer. I have had so many problems with this vehicle that are normally unheard of at this kind of mileage. I have replaced wheel bearings, a water pump and now I'll have to pay over a thousand dollars to replace this clutch and it will most likely just repeat itself in under 10,000 miles again. I'll never buy another Ford in my life. Several lawsuits have been filed and rejected.
Complete "Failure Of Power Steering Assist" on my 2012 Fusion SEL AWD (46,000 mi) as identified on dashboard message. The wheel won't even turn! Hard as a rock! I bought this car exactly 2 weeks ago! Called Ford about the "Field Service Actions" listed on their site when I registered my car VIN#. "The EPAS Steering Efforts Action" is #15N01. Ford told me at that time there was a 50% chance of this failure but that I was covered for 10 years from 2012 or 100,000 mi. (WCF). I plan to call the Dealer and have my car towed tomorrow. It is completely un- drivable. I'm sick about this! Why aren't more people reporting this? What should I tell the Dealer? Would appreciate anyone's advice. Thank you all! Subscribed
Ford action on EPAS failures is criminal. Millions of owners have not only been placed in harms way, but defrauded out of hard earned money. Ford enjoys profit from EPAS repairs, and NHTSA sits idle and allows Ford to self regulate its failures. State of automotive manufacturing and safety regulation has become circus act.
I have 2010 Ford Fusion and had this happen just last week on way home...This is definitely a safety issue and Ford has no concern for public safety..Mind you this car has had 12 different recalls...on various items including gas tank, throttle control module..NHTSA NEEDS TO BRING THESE ISSUES TO LIGHT AND HOLD FORD RESPONSIBLE..
My 2010 Ford Fusion is showing all the signs now. A 9 year old car I've owned for 6. I keep getting "service advancetrac" and "power steering assist fault." I talked to Ford and they don't care to help. I was told technical answers for issues are only for the technicians through a service center. I had to have it towed to a ford service department and they told me the rack has to be replaced and it'll be $2500. My car is worth that much! I can't even talk to an actual trained technician, they want me to go through the advisor that doesn't know anything. I can't believe as a loyal ford customer they will not work with me or even give me an answer on a root cause/fix. I'm not sure what I'm going to do, but I may just get rid of it and put money that would go into repairs into another vehicle. I appreciate the video. It has helped.
Happy video was helpful; sorry you own Ford product. Millions of alternate Ford owners have been dragged through dirt like you. Ford's lack of professionalism and refusal to own-up to serious design faults will eventually drive business into ground. Especially since Ford has acted with criminal negligence concerning once loyal customers; who will never touch another Ford product, and make sure the 'word' concerning Ford is passed on. Your point concerning vehicle worth is valid; $2,500.00 investment is waste, since replacement unit will fail again in future. Use funds to purchase non-US designed vehicle, at least you can count of NHTSA taking action against non-US based manufacturer.
My 2010 Ford Flex Ecoboost is not covered but it completely gave out on me on the 5 freeway. It was freightening! Ford dealership said they will not cover it
My best friend's 2011 Chevy Cruze had an intermittent steering issue, different from the Ford in that the steering would just stop responding at times. The wheel itself would still turn, but the car wouldn't. The last time it did it, he drove into a bridge rail at ~30 mph. Totaled the car, but didn't seriously hurt him. Problem is well known, but GM refuses to acknowledge it. Really makes me glad that my daily-driver 1978 F150 doesn't have any of these problems.
My dad has a 2011 F150 with the first gen EPAS. The steering will randomly bind, and become a nightmare to control. Then go back to normal suddenly. Called FORD service, and they basically tried to avoid any sort of answer. I asked them if they have seen this a lot, and they essentially wouldn't answer. I tried to dig deeper and they just backed away from the issue. This is a death trap issue, and unbelievable they are so non-nonchalant about it. Going to replace the unit on my own with a Rockauto rem-man and do the re-code with ForScan.
Remember; replacement unit has not been re-designed in any way. Thermal exposure under hood will cause failure of replacement unit over time; for some Ford customers, this has been as little as weeks. Strongly suggest disposing of hazardous vehicle post replacement. Just matter of time before fatalities caused by Ford steering system failures.
@@bk1468 Indeed! Here was FORD's reply today. More of the same. Thank you for contacting the Ford of Canada Customer Relationship Centre, my name is Diana. We received your email on June 18 regarding your concern. We do regret the circumstances for which you have contacted us regarding the steering in your father’s F-150. We can understand your concern and frustration with the cost of the repair as well. The warranty provided by Ford of Canada for this repair was for 3 years or 60,000 kilometres whichever occurs first from the warranty start date which was May 10, 2011. Ford is proactive in trying to identify areas of concern through investigating consumer and dealer feedback. Not all issues investigated will result in a recall or program. We have reviewed your situation, and there are no warranties, recalls or customer satisfaction programs on your vehicle that would provide assistance for this repair. I am truly sorry that we cannot meet your expectations in this instance. Thank you for taking the time to write us about the details of your concern.
On behalf of myself and millions of other former Ford owners; we can only hope this company burns for its engineering incompetence, criminal negligence, and complete lack of responsible action in face of critically hazardous vehicle system design. Ford is associated with long and deadly history of producing critically flawed automobiles. And is well known for ignoring hazardous engineering flaws, and failing to take or even acknowledge safety concerns. I realized how corrupt Ford corporate was when I sued Ford. The Ford attorney attempted to criminalize me in court by insisting smoke pouring from my exhaust from failed Ecoboost engine was due to me placing oil in mufflers. This accusation was so blatant, hostile, ridiculous and baseless; Judge ruled against Ford and my case was won. You are dealing with an organization that will do anything to protects its public image. Ford legal is dirty, sly and never to be trusted. It is through their own instrument of plunder this company will fall.
They know there's a heat problem. The owners manual says if the power starting assist faults out, let the car cool and that should help. I purchased my escape 3 months ago and my vehicle just faulted out. You'd think the 28 degree weather would have helped a little. So what do we do, bend over and take or up the a**? My vin isn't on the recall list.
My fusion 2012 sel was taken to a shop for “service advancetrac” “service power steering” code. They said it was rack and pinion, so I shoveled out $1400, two weeks later and tonight my power steering went out again!
This man is a genius! My 2012 Ford Fusion 2.5 fwd had this same problem about 6 months ago. Luckily I did my research and found out my car was covered under the extended recall warranty. They replaced it free of charge which would have been $1800. Being like this man I wanted to know why it failed in the first place. After poking around for a while I figured it was the exhaust manifold that comes off the back of the engine and within inches of the electronic module/box of these epas racks and frying them due to overheating. I bought some heat shielding wrap that does a good job of deflecting the heat and wrapped the electronics with it and will pray it doesn’t happen again because it won’t be under warranty much longer. 🙏🏻 Thanks for the video sir, great job!
I know NOTHING about cars except getting oil changes, rotating tires, and getting my car checked out on occasion. My 2012 Ford Focus has the power steering failure msg come on occasionally, and it takes all my strength to turn the wheel. Then I start it another place, and it's back to normal...? My mechanic didn't catch it WHEN it happened, so he couldn't explain it. With my arthritis and torn shoulder, I'm scared something BAD is going to happen😯 No more Fords for me😠
Based what you discovered I have to tell you that you are 110% right... It happened to my 2016 ford taurus and i noticed it happened in summer time during Hot days... After clearing codes it went back to working order ( really weird stuff) . It happened 3 times already with the same outcome... I smale something over heating like burn stuff and than boom .. steering goes down.. clear codes back to normal... I have chavy cars for many years... but Fors what a failure... if not steering overheating than PTU over heating and stinks like cooking gas ( rotten eggs) ... ford has lot of problems
True, and I would say, those days have been gone for some time. I keep an old restored early 70's muscle car in garage. No electronics, fancy features, or even electric fuel pump. Frame manufactured using thick steel, trim is real chrome plated metal, interior is leather with metal accents. Basic and simple Chevy 350 V8; completely void of ECM, sensors and modern gadgets. Vehicle has been running for nearly 45 years, no engine failures, wheel bearing replacements, etc. Tell me why automotive industry has evolved to design and produce outrageously complex, expensive, technology excessive, inferior material laden, poor quality, and poorly designed disasters labeled as luxury sedans. Automotive engineers today cannot even design a wheel bearing that lasts beyond 30K miles; with steel bearing assembly pressed into aluminum wheel hub (turns to solid mass due to galvanic reaction; basic chemistry 101). It is really quite pathetic and sad; what our so called high-technology and sciences have become. In old engineering school; we were coached that all design should include balance between performance, technology and most importantly 'simplicity'. This basic concept has proved fundamental to quality, endurance and reliability in engineering implementations. Guess these basic concepts were lost somewhere during maximizing-profit and minimizing-cost philosophies.
Important note about industrial vs automotive temperature grades and how engineers design modules to meet regulatory specifications. Designing an electronic implementation to adhere to industrial, automotive or extended temperature range specifications can present daunting design challenge. Related to simple or limited component count implementations; challenge can be manageable. However for high-level integration designs incorporating mixed-signal, computational and high-count component implementations; the challenge becomes great. Incorporating 100% automotive grade components within highly-complex electronic implementation is not only impractical for most designers; but extremely expensive, time consuming, and introduces many specific assembly and manufacturing requirements to meet specification. One engineering approach to achieving automotive temperature specification, is to utilize lower-grade sub-components sealed within an assembly, specifically designed to 'buffer' (or protect) internal components from higher-grade temperature environment. This approach often uses high-thermally conductive materials to remove and dissipate heat energy away from sub-temperature grade components. This is precisely the case with the Ford EPAS assembly, which includes commercial and industrial class components internal to an aluminum enclosure, designed with specific intent to provide thermal isolation. Ford's implementation also includes large air-collection cowl that passively channels cooling directly over the EPAS aluminum enclosure. In effect, the EPAS aluminum enclosure collects and stores thermal energy from the automotive grade environment, and this energy is dissipated using airflow via cowl induction. Unfortunately, this approach failed in the Ford integration, since Ford engineers unwisely placed catalytic converter, exhaust pipe, and turbo assembly within inches of EPAS enclosure. To further compound this failure; passive cooling-cowl only moves air with vehicle in motion. Drive with engine under loaded condition, stop vehicle at red light or sit with engine running, and you have super-heating of EPAS enclosure. Over time, internal EPAS components fail due to thermal stress. Conclusions represent simple and logical disposition of current Ford EPAS system failures; based on common engineering design practices, measured operational parameters, and visual thermal stress indicators internal to EPAS assembly. Not to mention millions of failed EPAS units in the field with not one plausible or verifiable disposition from Ford or the NHTSA. Did anyone even notice fact EPAS units continued to fail by the millions in spite of Ford supposed fix related to connector misalignment during assembly? Apparently the NHTSA did not!
My 2012 Fusion sedan completely lost power steering in the parking lot two weeks after purchase. The dealer replaced 2,000 dollars in components and labor for no charge.
I had the same problem with my 2011 Ford Explorer!! No power steering, rack and pinion lossed! They also, mentioned about the catalyst converter, tires and brakes!! Ford wanted to charge me $3700 to fix! It was NOT covered under a recall or a warranty!!
Also guys, these steering boxes are not water proof or even water resistant. They welcome outside water as if you have invited someone for a dinner party !
Thanks for the detailed analysis of the problem. I subscribed hoping for more videos like it in the future. BTW, I'd definitely watch any other videos like this where you review recall issues or common failures. I have a 13 Focus exhibiting the 'Power Steering Failure' from time to time and I'd really like to see a video on that.
Just had to have my 2010 Fusion towed to the dealership for this same problem. I only have 64,000 miles and in the last 3 months have already had to replace fuel injector and need to replace struts as well. When I get this fixed I will be trading it in on a Honda. It's ridiculous for them to not recall this part especially since its the same as the 2011- 2013. Will never buy a Ford again.
I have a 2007 Ford Escape Hybrid. My steering went out almost 4 months ago. I had no idea this problem was so commonplace. I will look into trading what's left of my vehicle, but I will never get anything from Ford that has electric power steering.
Thanks for the deep investigation- your correct on everything. 2016 ford explorer police interceptor-owner. Power steering acting weird- I am knowing it’s expensive
If you are interested we have a 2013 Ford Flex with a similar steering issue except ours gives your theory some support. In the summer it works intermittently, mostly not working however when it rains it works perfect giving some evidence to yo our claims of thermal issues.
Thanks... Body of evidence supporting thermal stress design flaw is supported from various sources. Symptom vs physical evidence is important; as symptoms only support probability of failure disposition, and physical evidence asserts direct cause. Burned MOSFETS and gobs of thermal compound directly imply thermal stress management problem. Thermal stress in electronic implementations can exhibit many and various symptoms prior to full failure; your description of failure is absolutely included in subset. Symptomatic failure is precisely where Ford wants to dwell; as failure can be attributed to various causes; software, manufacturing, electrical connectivity, etc, can all be theorized as root cause for failures (Ford has already played some of these cards). But Ford will never disclose any hint of engineering design flaw. Ford prefers to fraudulently pretend to correct problem with EPAS software update; while voiding your manufacturers warranty if customers allow procedure. Yes; Ford demanded customers with failing EPAS symptoms to surrender vehicle to dealer (where software was downloaded that did nothing more than report additional OBD failure codes and messages). Vehicles were then returned to customers (without any corrective action) with modified software and warranty indicating Ford would not be responsible for subsequent EPAS failures following software update. The NHTSA silently watched as Ford implemented this policy to defraud millions of consumers worldwide.
Same happened to me. Inside by the Electric Motor where that internal belt is, that bottom roller (internal pulley) that he belts is connected to, that bottom roller has bearings and on mine the bearings are worn making a rubbing noise while turning. My thought is putting some header heat rap over that cat to keep the heat off of it.
Ford Escape 2.5L FWD, lost power steering, warning lights came on "power steering assist fault" in the driving. totally failed when I tried to re-start in a parking lot. Contacted Ford Canada. Ford said they can't help. recall was closed years ago.
OK Many thanks for this detailed explanation , as long as the main reason for loss the steering power is the overheating from the engine- catalyst or whatever!! so how to avoid this and to protect the steering motor for the overheating ! Well just an opinion to put so thermal insulator or to install and fix a small fan over the steering motor to keep it cool ! I have 2012 ford fusion 4 cylinder 2.5L ?
As an engineer, I have experience with design of intrinsically-safe and regulatory agency qualified electronic implementations. It was expressly my job as an engineer; to specify components and design circuitry that adhered to various standards of the trade. Intrinsically safe design is serious business; with legal ramifications if regulatory specifications are not adhered to. I can tell you many stories associated with use of improper temperature rated components, cooling and ventilation implementations, and frantic 11th hour attempts to correct an improperly designed thermally stressed system. It may seem like logical approach to ventilate given stressed system with cooling; however one must consider many factors and approach problem from an energy standpoint. The sheer amount of energy involved in an engine compartment is staggering. Nothing short of serious CFM with cold air input will achieve much; otherwise hot air is just moved around. The amount of CFM to keep the large aluminum EPAS housing cooled would need to be determined experimentally, since no data is available to make meaningful thermodynamic calculations. You must also consider that many Ford models already include extensive attempts to cool EPAS assembly; including dual air-dams mounted under engine, and aluminum heat shield around EPAS electronics enclosure area. Clearly Ford was fully aware of thermal issues; otherwise none of these measures would have been implemented. Automotive steering systems represent critical and essential automotive component. Given an EPAS system is to be implemented under hood of modern automobile; design must adhere to automotive standards of intrinsic safety. Placing non-automotive temperature qualified components within an aluminum housing and blowing air over it, then calling it 'automotive qualified' is clearly at heart of Ford's problem. Alternate manufacturers have opted to implement EPAS related assemblies within cabin; which common sense would dictate. Ford is not even able to design an EPAS system meeting full automotive temperature grade. This is due to fact technology required to implement EPAS functionality is highly mixed-signal, mixed mechanics by nature (i.e. microcontrollers, memory storage, motor drive, optical encoders, sub-miniature wiring and connectors, high-density interconnect cables, brushless motors, timing belts, large capacitors, high-density SMT PCB's, etc. Many of these components are not readily available in extended temperature ranges, available from very limited vendors, and prohibitive by cost.
Appreciate your detailed video, 2012 focus se at the dealer nowwith $2000 price tag at 6000 miles out of warranty, still trying to decide what path to take
Please remember replacement EPAS units have not been redesigned to automotive temperature specifications. Replacements will fail once placed in same hot engine compartment; some on short order, others maybe longer.
My 2010 flex eco boost just did the same to me..no warning was on highway from Chicago to Memphis for a family reunion.. now stuck 300 miles away from home ..any quick fixes?
Oh my! I will never get a Ford. Never. "Steering Assit Fault. Service Required" I have checked the EPAS fuse which still looks good. I am done with this 2013 Ford Escape SEL 2.0 Ecoboost. I have always been a fan of Ford now I see why people stay away from American made cars in general. Shame on Ford.
Ford has established massive PR department and thousands of attorneys and engineers around globe to deal with customers who take matters to court. If you take legal action against Ford; you will be subjected to fierce resistance and formidable legal resources in court battle. Ford will demand your vehicle be relinquished to local dealer for inspection (days) by one of their special 'field evaluation' engineers. These engineers will produce bogus detailed evaluation document outlining specifically why Ford is not responsible for vehicle deficiencies. In addition, document will include 'biased opinion' that you contributed in some way to problem. Ford will attempt to use this engineering document in court to sway case in favor of dismissal. My vehicle was evaluated using this process. The Ford engineer actually attempted to criminalize me with report sighting smoking engine was result of oil placed in muffler. Ford failed to realize I was retired engineer with experience in thermodynamics. A muffler does not immediately become hot upon starting engine. In addition, mufflers rarely reach temperatures sufficient to burn oil. From cold start; engine produced heavy smoke due to internal failure. Ford was caught with their pants down in case; matter settled in my favor. Case would have ended very differently if Ford was not called on their attempted fraud; in this case science was used to prove criminal conduct.
my 2015 explorer went to manual steering this week, no warning what so ever, can't see ford ignoring hundreds if not thousands of failures. Something has to be done.
Not only is Ford ignoring design flaw and safety hazard; but claiming hefty profit off customer repairs on average 2K per vehicle. Number of failures in millions, not thousands.
My daughter had a steering "hard over" and brought to the dealer. She had previously paid $1500 for a steering motor replacement. This time they told her she needed another $1500 in steering column repairs as well as a 4 wheel alignment when done. They charged her $150 for an alleged inspection by a mechanic to arrive at this estimate. I instructed her to bring it to my shop and they warned her that if I fixed it they would have to charge her another $150 to "re-program the electronics". We put it in the air and immediately spotted a failed steering coupler that was nearly separated. It was a $140 retail part that took one-half an hour to replace. It had absolutely nothing to do with any of the repairs called out on their estimate or the problem. This reveals a "top-down" policy of fraud and deception by Ford and their dealers. They are certainly not the only ones doing this, of course. That doesn't make it OK. I am filing a complaint with the MN AG office.
Ford is a $200B syndicate, Ford dealers do what they are told and collectively process consumers for profit. There is no state or government agency that will go against one of the greatest money makers in the US (auto industry). The whole system is connected from business to politics. What amazes me is people continue to purchase Ford products. You should here some Ford enthusiasts defend Ford like zombies. Amazing!
My 2011 Mustang GT is experiencing some issues with the steering. At first I thought it had to do with the AC taking power of the steering but then I shut that off and the problem still continues. My car jerks when I turn slowly, it sounds as if the motor wants to turn the wheel but insted of turning it spins. I am not sure how to go about fixing this issue and I hope the car gets fixed under the recall otherwise I am pretty much screwed
B Smith - I had a similar issue in a 2013 Fusion Hybrid. I relaced the steering gear with a remanufactured steering gear (Fords price point forced me to reman) and it works, but intermittently. When the car is stopped the assisted steering gear seems to shut off and I loose all EAPS, its not until I travel a few feet that it turn back on and functions as it should. I've tried using FORScan to reset all modules and that works while the car remains stationary, but as soon as I start to drive, it reverts back to working intermittently. It seems like a communication issue between the PCM and PSCM but I'm not entirely sure on this. Any suggestions?
Faith Barbie I’m sooo sorry that happened. I have the same car this is frighten to me cause my car have the same recall that has expired and I refuse to pay that amount of money with all the bad reviews and comments on here. I just drive slow n don’t drive the freeway at all. I just bought this car for cash money now I see why they sold it. So I guess I’m a resale it
H bridge failure can occur due to the fact electric motors require a lot of starting current due to inductive nature, and the load on them makes them draw even more current, and these MOSFETS even if rated twice the maximum current in a stalled state can fail contributed by temperature increase, and aluminum housing unable to dissipate heat as it gets even more hotter by being in a close proximity to other heat sources near by. If an H bridge fails especially the two diametrically opposite transistors, it can continuously power the motor to turn the steering wheel by itself without an input from the driver, which can cause a fatal crash especially when you might be going at 50 MPH or more, I think electric power steering assistance are pretty dangerous and should be outlawed, unless provisions are made to use some other control technology where current is pulsed and each pulse is monitored so that if any transistor became a shorted out, then it would give a continuous power and as soon as the monitoring system detects this it shuts down the power to the transistors by using an electro- mechanical high power relay.
The first company to come out with a manual power steering rack to replace this electric steering will make a fortune. Amazing I have not had one single problem with my Mustang.
My 2015 Taurus had the steering become difficult to turn a few times but it went away after shutting the car off and restarting. There was an alarm of "Steering Assist Fault Service Required". Three days ago the same thing happened but neither the alarms or issue goes away after restarting the car. There is also an alarm this time "Service AdvanceTrac" that comes on as well. I have not taken the car to the Ford garage yet but it doesn't look like there is a simple fix to this issue
There is no simple fix, your EPAS is hazardous and will require replacement. If your vehicle is under recall, do not take partially failing EPAS to Ford, Ford will make software upgrade (that does nothing but display additional error codes) and send you on your way. Ford will then void your recall replacement option at this point, and you will be required to pay for repairs.
I experienced the same with my 2015 Focus. The problem was intermittent. It would correct itself if i turned the key off and back on, or shut the car off and cam back y=to it. This time, it is not fixing itself and the steering is extremely difficult at low speeds.
My 2013 Ford Explorer had issues with losing its GPS location and periodically reduced power steering (steering wheel was hard to turn). Eventually my battery failed and I replaced it. Since replacing my battery I haven't had either of these issues reoccur. I did notice that the factory battery was Motorcraft BXT 59 540 and the recommended replacement was Motorcraft BAGM 48 760. The latter has much greater Cold Cranking Amps and reserve capacity . I don't know if the bigger battery fixed my problems or the computers were "reset" by replacing the battery. But I know it wasn't just a coincidence.
I was always told that fords are not good cars to buy sense I was 16 years old they always said Ford means found on side road died. But as a adult I said I’m try to give it benefit of a doubt cause you can’t go by what everybody tell you. Shitting me never again out of 8 cars I’ve had though out my life first time buying a ford and last time they just threw these dam cars together piece crap they all to be ashamed of there selves and get shut down for putting lives in danger😤
My 2010 fusion power steering stopped working last night as I was leaving a store. Turned it off and on and it came back. I fully expect it to be completely fried next time I drive. My fear is it will work long enough to get me to highway speed then kill me and my daughter and whoever is in our path. The vehicle isn't worth the cost of the repair and I'm not selling it because it's a death trap. It is definitely my LAST Ford.
I went with 2018 Mazda GT 3 hatchback i got 5 year unlimited mileage warranty. I was sold almost 100Ks of only being in city doi ng deliveries. Only brake pads so far.
This eps Bull Shit has made me hate ford. 2010 fusion steering first went out on my mother on her way home from chemotherapy in 2017. We had it replaced (well over a thousand dollars bilked from my dying mother) and the warranty of course is no good now. After her passing I ended up with the piece of Ford. It went out on my daughter (new driver) yesterday. Coronavirus has me on edge already but Ford is pushing my over it. They want to fix the airbag problem but nothing with the eps unit. Hmmm maybe Ford wants to give the face a nice landing place when the mfkn eps unit fails again....
Sorry for your troubles and welcome to the exclusive failed Ford EPAS club. I wonder if you would be kind enough to comment further on your experience; i.e. elaborating on any hazardous conditions, or Ford customer service stories. Thanks...
fault occurred once about a year ago but cleared on power cycle. then about a month ago it started faulting frequently but still would clear on power cycle. last week that ship sailed it comes on before you even start the car. took it to the dealership two days ago and hit me with the quote on this. 82k miles so out of warranty and sol basically. so that's where i am currently, fortunately i have a 01 Toyota pickup for home depot runs and such that i am able to drive. i too work in electrical engineering (HVAC industry) this just boggles my mind that this is what so many customers are left with. i have a 60 mile commute in city traffic one way, the car is unsafe to drive.
Hello. I have a 2013 flex that is at the dealership now for a power steering failure. They said it “lost communication”. And the pscm has to be replaced for $3200. Now I have ford basecare extended warranty that says it covers the power steering housing (manual and power). Is that fightable to force them to cover it under warranty?
In my case. It has only happened when I start the car (2011 F150), so I turn off and on again and it seems to do the job, but yesterday i had to do it 3 times consecutively to get it to work again. My concern is loosing the ability to steer while driving.. And think there is more to it than just the heat, or maybe the damage has been done to the electronics due to heat.. I do live in Florida, but the first time this happened was on a relatively cool morning with 77degree weather..
Most probably position-feedback rotary optical encoder beginning to fail. There are two of these encoders in implementation; one on drive motor shaft and second on steering shaft input. Rotary encoders are very delicate precision implementations; prone to failures from shock, vibration, thermal and quality of design. Hi performance servo implementation commonly use premium-quality and redundant rotary encoders to insure reliability and failure detection; but you will find neither in Ford's implementation. One can expect numerous and varying failure dispositions related to EPAS systems; simply due to magnitude of design and implementation complexity. Introduction of thermal stress on system degrades semiconductor materials and greatly increases probability of single-point failures. Today in could be an LED in optical encoder, tomorrow motor drive transistor. This is folly of highly-complex over-stressed electronic implementations in automotive applications. Ford engineers just don't seem to understand fundamental concept of failure mitigation in high-reliability engineering design.
PLEASE READ THIS: My EPAS failed at 90'000 miles for the first time. It was 3 weeks after we bought the car (we are the third owner Ford Flex 2012). After restarting the car it worked again. But I read in the manual that it will stop working for ever if you don't bring it to the dealer. Well this was not easy for me since the car was imported from Canada to Switzerland and this car is not officially sold here. Ford Europe also isn't connected with Ford America. The Ford dealer contacted Ford America and they told him what he has to do. THIS IS IMPORTANT: First they have to read out the error codes. If there is ANY code connected to the EPAS (there is a list with those codes) the dealer MUST replace the whole unit FOR FREE and install a softwareupdate. If there is no error he has to update the software. If after the update (doesn't matter how long it can be 2 years) ANY of the codes occurs, the dealer MUST replace the whole unit ALSO FOR FREE. This is written in the document the dealer has sent for the recall to the dealers. If your dealer refuses to do it for free you should contact Ford. What I think the bad dealers do is, that the charge the money 2 times. They get the money and parts for free from Ford and charge YOU so they have double the money. I really didn't expect Ford to take care of my problem since the car is imported from Canada to Switzerland but they did. They also paid everything and believe me the cost for the work is much more expensive in Switzerland than anywhere else. They still paid everything and i appreciate that. Ofcourse I'm not happy that the EPAS failed but I hope it will never fail again. One thing: The dealer will replace the EPAS unit onli 1 time for free. I hope this will help other people so they know what their dealer has to do. Other than that I'm very happy with this car. It's very fast and nimble, it has a lot of legroom and cargo space (I'm a very tall guy over 195cm). It has great gas mileage considering it's size and power and it's very safe in the rain. I haven't tried it out in the snow yet but I'm sure it will behave well. The only thing I don't like about the car is that the suspension is pretty hard (which gives good handling but you won't like driving it on bad roads). It's still very comfortable on long roadtrips. My legs didn't hurt like they did in our Cadillac STS we had before, even though the seats are harder. The seating position is higher which helps a tall guy a lot.
You were indeed fortunate your vehicle year was included in recall. Unfortunately, many millions of owners were excluded from recall; owning identical equipment and experiencing identical failures. Be informed that Ford never voluntarily initiated recall; it was only after years of failures and NHTSA action that Ford did anything. In fact, Ford has still not acknowledged problem publicly or disclosed nature of defect in honest manner. Ford explanation to NHTSA (which was the only published disclosure of issue) was that Chinese manufacturers assembled electronics improperly; sighting connector alignment and ribbon cable problem. These problems never existed and the real failure disposition continues to remain enigmatic to consumers; the way Ford want's it. Ford EPAS implementation remains one of Ford's major historical blunders, and represents serious safety hazard and costly liability to consumers. EPAS design remains unchanged, so replacement units are subject to failure over time and use. BTW, you should conduct additional investigation associated with other Flex design issues; e.g. brake lockup, turbo, transmission, PTU and engine failures, throttle body, timing chain, spark plug failures, gas tank leak issue, engine exhaust smoke, intercooler, others. Ford vehicle engineering remains at the bottom of the industry, many owners, like myself, have learned this lesson the hard and expensive way. My Flex only had 16K miles at onset of first major mechanical issue, Ford America fought me every step of the way to avoid repair under factory warranty.
K Smith Thank you for the answer. I‘m sorry to hear you had such a bad experience (and other people too). I will check out the other issues you mentioned. I hope they will not appear on my car. It has almost 100k miles now. Other than the EPAS we had no other issues. Would be great if it stays like that for another 80k miles. They don‘t build their cars with love like they used to...they do it only for the money. It‘s a shame because the car itself and the way it drives and handles is very nice. Before we bought the ford flex we had a cadillac seville sts 2003. We had it for 7 years and I read a lot of bad things about the car on the internet...but thankfully they never appeared on our car. I hope for the same with our „new“ car. I‘m really not a ford guy so I won‘t defend their mistakes. We had 3 GM cars, Chrysler, Honda, Lexus and now ford...I only shared my experience. Every manufacturer has its issues. My friend bought a new Audi Q7 a few days ago and it already started having electrical issues. Like I said they don‘t build them with love and pride anymore. Have a nice day.
Figures, they recalled the 2011-2013, but not your 2010 year. Hopefully they have since addressed this, and I wont have to worry about it in my 2016 Mustang.
This was a statement from both Ford and NHTSA spokesman, released after recent article sighting Ford steering failures as number one defect complaint two years running. Ford spokesman: “We are confident in our current methods for quickly identifying and addressing potential vehicle issues,” the spokesperson added. “When the data indicates a safety recall is needed, we move quickly on behalf of our customers. The spokesperson said then that the company takes the safety of its customers “very seriously.” NHTSA spokesman: A NHTSA spokesperson didn’t immediately respond but told ABC News upon release of the initial list in June that the agency has a “good track record” in identifying safety defects and issuing recalls. For Ford owners who have actually experienced or been injured by EPAS failures. And have further experienced, first hand, the cold and hostile treatment Ford extends to consumers; sold faulty and dangerous automobiles. These statement bring home the real business model in which Ford has based its legacy. These statements from both Ford and the supposed safety oversight organization responsible to consumers, represent the real political and profitable cooperation between US business and government safety entities. The NHTSA will never do anything dramatic when US manufactures are concerned, the political and financial implications are simply to profound. It matters not that tens of millions of defective and hazardous EPAS units have been installed on vehicles around the globe since 2008. Ford's $200B market capital takes precedence over you, your family, or your defective, expensive problem sitting in your garage. These statements are truly despicable and disgraceful, in light of the sheer magnitude of reported EPAS failures, with millions of consumers abandoned, defrauded, and placed in danger of death or injury.
My EPAS steering failed this week, and I came here and to other sites discussing it, finding a lot of good information. I knew it would do no good to argue with the dealer/repairman. I called Ford and told them about the problem and they worked with me to reduce the repair price, Ford will pay part and I will pay part. Some of the information online says that the EPAS will give a warning on the dash, and then will be turned off the next time the car is started, and this was how mine went. I got an "service power steering" notice on the dash panel but the power assist continued to work until I stopped to get gas. Then I had only manual steering when I restarted the car. It did not turn off while driving. It is hard to tell from online information, how many of the million+ cars sold with EPAS have had problems. It makes sense to me that they would not want to replace them all (recall) but that they would work with the few customers who have a failure, and that was my experience.
Ford sold you defective and hazardous product that should have been fully replaced under full recall, and then some. You were lucky EPAS did not fail in hazardous manner, like torque or lock steering at speed. I was injured by 2010 Flex when steering locked (Not reverted to manual!) in full right turn during travel. Must contest your comment about understanding Ford would not want to replace all EPAS units, only those "few" that experience fault; in fact, there have been millions of failures, not a 'few'. We are not talking about a tail light problem; automotive steering system represent most critical safety system on vehicle, even brakes are secondary to steering. You give Ford a lot of undeserved credit, please consider your wife and children driving at speed during EPAS failure. Eventually Ford EPAS system will cause serious injury and fatalities, I sincerely hope it is not your family. It certainly could have been mine, my kids were in back seat during crash; if vehicle crossed into traffic instead of hitting curb, we could have all been killed. I fought Ford for months to get them to pay $700.00 of a $2000.00 EPAS replacement bill, it is only recently that Ford has eased up on this process. The cost of EPAS replacement to Ford is less than portion of repair paid by customer, so Ford is actually making money off customers sold defecting failed equipment. Do not be fooled into thinking your problems are over once EPAS is replaced; Ford has not addressed the real thermal issue causing unit failures, and never will. Ford will smile in your face as long as you remain docile and malleable; take Ford to court and you will learn what lying, deceitful scum Ford management really are.
I have a 2011 F450, & randomly, my steering wheel loses power assist, but more alarmingly, the steering wheel will suddenly jerk in one direction, then another. Sometimes it would start turning the wheel left to right rapidly. This problem comes and goes. Very dangerous. When I take it to the dealer, it usually behaves well, so they just shrug.
Classic sign of EPAS failure. EPAS system is a servo based control system comprising basically motor, two optical rotary position encoders, control computer, power and support electronics. Steering rack is driven via timing belt and pulleys. One optical encoder senses motor rotor angular position, and 2nd senses steering wheel angular position at input of EPAS assembly. When you turn wheel, wheel position optical encoder senses this rotation. Servo controller then drives motor to close feedback loop until 'zero' error is established between commanded position and actual rack position. Rack position is inferred through motor shaft rotary encoder feedback through timing belt and pulleys. So the entire system is basically a closed-loop dual feedback servo, with no redundant feedback mechanisms. This means any failure associated with optical encoders or data integrity will cause servo controller to actuate erroneously. So, your EPAS is most likely experiencing an internal component failure causing servo controller to sense movement in absence of steering command. This can come from various internal failure sources including encoders, motor drive, controller, or even simple loose wire. Most likely EPAS internal component has failed due to thermal overload over time, like millions of others in Ford vehicles. Situation is very dangerous, advise immediate intervention to protect you and your family. The EPAS system is one of Ford's legacy failures, you will get no help from Ford or the NHTSA on this one.
Everyone needs to file a complaint easily online with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration so they can force a recall.
My 2012 ford fusion power steering failed this week, while i was out of town, cost me 3 days in hotel and $1600 to fix it. There was a recall on the rack and pinon power steering module for half a million cars but for some reason my car was not on that list. Ford really needs to be sued over this because it very dangerous.
I put a new one in my car and 1 1/2 later it’s out again 😡😡
Same thing with my 2012 ford fusion. Ford said that there are no recalls on my car but they put an extended warranty on my car for the rack and pinion... I have no idea what they meant but it may or may not be covered by ford.
Seriously fuck ford they won't fix my shit either they are charging me 3,700
@@theresaedwards5819mine went out 2 weeks later lmao
@@theresaedwards5819 Same with mine just now.
3 minutes in...I was thinking this guy has to be an electrical engineer. I've never come across anyone on any video, so well spoken and as confident with descriptive nomenclature. Although Ford, like most large corporations, give zero fucks, great assessment and diagnosis.
bingo he said so at 6mins in
Top notch video... 6yrs later, here I am with a 2014 Ford Fusion... thought I was a dead man for sure as I lost steering during in town driving. I am furious that this was even a possible thing. Doubt there is a recall but I am going to hope that Ford is willing to deal with this issue. Hope all is well brother! 👊🧡👍
Yeah good luck, my 2012 Sel is not covered for recall or anything . 1600 later and it broke again
After 150k ford will touch it most time get buy clearing code change our tps sensor or front tires also male sure battery is very good not weak batter also you can take both cables off the cat for hour or 2 make sure tie both of them touching. Have 2011 model. Done everything 😅😅 what help me was I took the battery out one day replacing it with agm battery and decide try tie both together. And at had problems with it long long time that was at 180k miles am at 268k miles. Hole time had this car that only major problems had with it they are great great vechles. Only year I'll buy is 2011. 2012 models mabe 2013. 2014 and Up has bad transmission problems not one time I had any problems out the motor beside change starter one time oil changes ... I have 2011 sel 2.0 or 2.5. Live find the s Verizon if any one has s model like to sell let me know love also if was stick shift
EPAS Steering failure is a huge Safety concern and could potentially cause lives whilst in motion. I am an Electrical engineer too and I can attest to the fact that you're spot-on. Thermal stress is the culprit. Your video presentation was top-notch and well detailed. Fault condition on Steering power assist on my Ford Taurus brought me here. Ford is probably not implementing industry-grade power MOSFET rated for harsh operating environment. Also, there is definitely a design flaw with heat sink configuration but Ford will never own up, just to protect their bottom line. I'm done buying Ford vehicle forever!
Can you share some symptoms? I bought a used 2016 Ford Explorer (my first ever Ford product), it just hit 89k mileage but my steering makes kinda grinding noise when I turn the steering wheel (both right and left) even when the car is parked. The noise got worse and the steering wheel somewhat got stiffer after a month of parking outside (1 month vacation).
Best video. Why no one know why ford steering keeps going out. So for a year no one knew why my Steering wheel was not I Check everything and could find nothing all of the computer button stopped working. So one day look at this same steering wheel column that’s under my car and it was cracked. That one item can cause the whole to not run right. Good wish I would be seen this. Took a year to figure out why my steering wasn’t working
Update 2011 Lincoln Mkt 3.5L Ecoboost, Canada edition.
The second Epas steering unit in my vehicle that Ford installed was a refurbished unit. I found out from a service rep that Ford will replace the Epas unit with a rebuilt unit if you do not specifically tell them you want a new unit. The refurbished unit costs more than the new unit and the warranty is only for three (3) months. A new unit cost a few hundred dollars less but the warranty is for two (2) years.
One year and five (5) months later the second refurbished Epas unit failed. I replaced it with a third epas unit and filed a formal complaint with Ford Canada. These Epas units are expensive.
After a battle back and forth, I received a Partial settlement of $1500 CDN. The payment was voucher check, not cash which means you have to spend it at Ford. I needed a few more repairs on the lincoln so I used part of the voucher check on the repairs. On paying the bill, the service manager told me to contact ford for the balance of the check (@$375), since the repair cost did not use the full amount of the check. The next week ford contacted me saying the fine print stated the the full amount of the voucher check must be used as no cash is refund allowed.
They gave me an option, the balanced could be transfered to the "Lincoln Loyalty Program" if I signed up. I red the program previously (like reading a noval), and turned it down. 2015 ford vehicles and above under the program are tracted by ford, interesting?
My Lincoln has 102k easy mi. Is in great shape yet has cost a small fortune in mechanical repairs, not particularly reliable or trouble free. From experience, I do not feel that ford loyaly treats me so why would I?
Looking for a Toyota for my next vehicle. Check Consumes Report "Best Car Ratings"
I will submit my complaint with the Canada BBB.
Totally feel your pain... that is a whole lot of Fk around... terrible business practice. May you have better fortune with the choices ahead. I look at a vehicle and yt the hell out of it by searching top 5-10 issues, so I know in advance what is coming my way in due time lol 👊🧡👍
I am going to fix my 2016 Ford explorer （power steering assist fault）and sell it to buy a Japanese car too
I must say you are the most intelligent person I've been able to find regarding electronic power steering. As an electrical engineer I was hoping you could shed some light on a problem I have I have a Dodge Challenger RT 2012. I had my tires changed last year and I also had the alignment adjusted. Ever since then - under normal conditions I feel about a 5% reduction in power assist when turning to the left. Then I found that several weeks later, while braking for a quick U-turn, I lost 100% of power assist and had to MUSCLE my way through the turn. I lose all power while braking and turning to the left. Since then, it is starting to affect right turns a little while braking, but no where near as badly as left turns. I since moved to Germany and I had it looked at by an American mechanic on base, and the Dodge dealership mechanics here. Neither could find a problem or offer a solution. The American theorized that when they did the allignment, the computer in the car is confused as to where dead center is. I have a feeling it is the computer chip as well because the power assist works under normal conditions. So while would it fail while braking if it was a mechanical issue? As you mentioned, these parts are expensive, so I don't want to go chasing good money after bad. Do you have any suggestions as to what these mechanics should be doing to fix it? Computer or steering rack (or both) ouch!
I have a Ford Escape SEL 2012. Was driving and the power steering failed, became stiff and required extra power and effort to control the steering wheel. Saw a message on the dash board that says steering assist failure. The diagnosis was that I have to replace this parts and estimated cost of repair is at least $1600. Thanks for your video I won't touch any ford product with a long stick
Sorry to here about your Ford problem, Ford engineering and customer service have devolved to lowest of standards by any measure.
Exceptional analysis. I work in electronic engineering as well. Also having the same problem with my f150 eps. Replaced the entire unit and the second one lasted less than 24hrs.
Thank you for the time you took to research and explain all that you learned about this problem. I have a 2013 Lincoln MKS doing the exact same thing....every thing you said made sense.
I own a 2010 Fusion 3.0L V6, 117,000 miles. I've read many times that this happens when the TPMS senses low tire pressure. One guy took it in to a Ford dealership three times and was charged about $100 each time for diagnostics but there was nothing to repair, they just reset the hard fault code. No way to reset the code yourself without a $3500 IDS scan tool.
I went on vacation for a week and when I returned I took the Fusion to the grocery store. My Fusion had low tire pressure indicator and the power steering was out and the battery was dying. I had to jump the battery when I left the store and ended up replacing the battery the next day. Even after leaving the cables off the battery for some time the power steering would not reset (still says "Service Advantech" or whatever).
Does low tire pressure cause the servo motor to work extra hard and then overheat?!?
Thank you Bryon for continuing to follow up with new information. Any suggestions to convince the dealer to not charge me to reset the fault code? Should my next step be to get rid of this car?
I wish I could afford a Tesla
David B I’m just soo mad about everything I’m hearing on here about these fords. Just brought a 2011 Ford Fusion come to find out its a recall on the power steering that has expired now I see why they sold it. I refuse to put more money and more money into these problems and still more problems come up. So I believe I’m gonna sell it and I will never again buy a ford of any kind again. I was always told that fords wasn’t good vehicle tried to give it the benefit of a doubt bad decision should’ve listened
Can you reset the codes yourself with a bluetooth OBD2 tool and a phone?
At 107,000 miles, my F-150 XLT power steering began failing intermittently and without warning. After a trip to the dealer and a $2,000 check, they sent me home with a new EPAS unit. Then, grinding and popping noises began to come from the same front-end, driver's side location. $700.00 later I had a new solenoid and other various and as sundry components replaced. Still the grinding noises. So, $600.00 and a wheel bearing replaced. Hallelujah! The noises stopped. A week after my 3rd visit with issues, my steering goes out immediately while I was making a left-hand turn crossing over oncoming traffic. I had not moves but to drive the truck up and over the curb and into a parking lot, where thankfully, there was a spot that I could muscle my non-steering truck into without wrecking it or running over somebody.
Now I've returned said truck yet again to my dealership. Here's thing, people, the guys in the garage CANNOT fix this problem. Do even a small amount of research on your own and you will see that this EPAS problem is systemic and long-ranging with Ford. The company, for reasons that can only be tracked to money, refuse to acknowledge that across their entire line of models lurks a potential killer...a steering system that randomly goes out without notice. I'm a good side man and each time this has happened, its a wrestling match with the wheel to get the truck safely stopped and parked.
I have owned Ford's for 25 years, but I'm done. As I write this my F-150 is still in the shop, while they try to find a way to explain to me that my $2,000.00 did nothing but buy me a newer POS part to replace the older POS part that was already on my truck. I almost feel sorry for my Service Tech, Mike Coody, at Gwinnett Place Ford in Duluth, GA, because I have all the data that shows him that I know what Ford is hiding, and he has to try and sell me to have confidence that Ford has this figured out. Wrong. This is one of the most informative videos of this issue. Search the Internet for EPAS Failure, Power Steering Failure Ford, and other word combinations. Thousands...Thousands of vehicles have this problem. My next truck will be a Nissan Titan. I've had it. I can buy Ford's on the Z-plan, which saves me $$$'s....but when they lie about systemic issues, hide dangerous engineering failures from their customers....I'm leaving the brand.
Kenneth Hall, Cumming, GA
EPAS steering gear failures will begin to spike as MTBF (mean time before failure) associated with overheated electrical components kicks in. It is inevitable that Ford will experience large instance of failures on a standard 'bell-curve'. Replacement units are the same TRW design; place new unit in an overheated engine compartment and same failure will repeat in time. Ford is counting on this time to allow warranty's to expire. Then consumers have no recourse other than waiting for NHTSA action. The NHTSA is staffed by bureaucrats and statisticians. From what I have seen in correspondence between Ford and NHTSA; NHTSA allows Ford to conduct their own fault investigations; in addition to defining final dispositions, and publishing of investigative results. Ford is allowed complete ownership of the fault issue which clearly results in blatant falsification of fault analysis, and minimal corrective action to Ford's benefit. NHTSA officials believe anything Ford tells them; as long as an official report is filed and key 'buzz words are included.
I found your report interesting in that you indicate how difficult it is to man-handle failed steering gear at low speeds and static in larger vehicles. This has been a primary point with me for some time. It is interesting to note that during Ford / NHTSA investigation; Ford was asked to supply a vehicle with failed EPAS steering; so NHTSA staff may test manual steering effort. The vehicle supplied by Ford was one of the smallest and less massive vehicles Ford manufactures. Apparently NHTSA staff never detected they were out maneuvered.
Trust me the issue is general not just ford alone, it also happened with Lexus, mostly the IS model i have one in my garage now sitting there because lexus charge me $5000+ to replace the steering rack and computer and obviously this is lexus fault replace the old style rack with electronics just for efficiency purpose. i realize my got locked when making left turn, i was lucky not o highway. i think is high time people speak against this, looks to me like accident waiting to happen, and now am not comfortable enough with any electronic power steering .
I am here because our 2013 Ford Explorer Electric Power Steering just stopped working this weekend like everyone else has experienced in this comment stream. You did a very good job of detailing the history of this debacle and the mechanical explanation followed by denial from Ford. I now have become another sad statistic in this massive Ford Conspiracy and we are all on our own. Well explained Mr. Smith . I thank you for the time and research you have put into this video feed. You may have saved lives with this information. The only thing we can do is tell everyone and never buy a vehicle with these steering systems. This is the last Ford my anyone in my family will buy.
Thank you Randy and sorry for your Ford issues. Best path, like yours, is to stay away from Ford products.
@@bk1468
You bet! The bill from our Ford Dealer was $3178.00 and only 2 year warranty. I requested they stand behind the product and at least provide 4 years for what it just cost. They use every excuse and deny taking responsibility.. Unfortunately all the manufacturers now use some for of Electric Power Assist Systems. It's such a great cash grab when they fail.
@@randykish8242 this is sick & twisted
I was just about killed tonight in my 2010 Ford Taurus SHO when suddenly during a lane change the steering wheel appeared jammed in a right position, I nearly took out 3 incoming cars and ended up in the middle of a parking lot simply by luck. When I looked at the dashboard it said something like Power assist fault, I turned the car off to collect my thoughts and restarted the vehicle and everything was fine. Two days ago my wife and young son were on the interstate and I can only imagine if this had happened to them they could have been killed. I have only 42,000 miles on this car, I bought it new. After watching your video I am shocked that Ford would take such a position on pre 2011 vehicles with this EPAS system. I am curious if you ever had any luck with Ford. Thanks for your great video, I appreciate it.
You can still steer the vehicle when the epas fails. All you guys just can't damn drive without power steering it doesn't sound like. I literally just did an entire drift event with no epas in my 2015 mustang
@@themustangfactory NOT TRUE! The Ford Escape can LOCK into one position and cannot be turned at all, no matter how strong you are!
@@themustangfactory shut the fuck up. The electronic power steering doesn't just go out, it goes full power to one side or the other when it fails before it shuts the module off. I don't care how strong you think you are, you aren't going to overpower that big ass DC motor. No one cares about your faggy fucking drift event either.
I have a Ford mariner that right now is a piece of crap, good for nothing due to the cost of repairs from this electric assisted steering wheel. Don't want to buy a Ford any more.
Thank you for your video!
I appreciate you brother for being so detailed and thorough. Thank you. I've had my 2014 ford focus se for about a year now, second owner, and I swear I'm ready to trade it in because there are a few malfunctions that I am concerned about. Not only am I experiencing the EPAS failure, but as you mentioned in your description about tires etc, it all makes sense. I feel cheated our of a ride man.
My wife 2012 ford Fusion just had this failure yesterday. Incredible that they are not taking this issue seriously. But they sure take Airbag recalls seriously though which she just got in the mail today. 😡😡
Airbag recalls specifically associated with Takata (Japan based manufacturer). Takata forced into bankruptcy by US safety regulatory agencies. Since your faulty EPAS system was designed in US by TRW and integrated on vehicle systems by Ford; no action will be taken by any US based safety regulatory agency against Ford or TRW; this consumer safety action would hurt US based Ford's $200B market capital. It's all money and image game; consumers suffer both financial and hazard burden.
I have a 2012 Ford Focus sel. I was driving and the steering went out and being it sits so low to the ground was very difficult to turn the wheel. I thank God my daughter wasn’t driving or this could have been disastrous. I called the dealership and was told the mechanic worked there for 15 years and never heard of this happening. That surprised me since I filed a case with the NTHSB and there were thousands of complaints about this. So I guess I am stuck having to come out of pocket for this. Great video by the way kudos
Thank you, good to know video was helpful. Your dealer and mechanic are both liars indicating problem not known. Ford EPAS problems front and center for years, including recalls, court action, news coverage, and millions of vehicles serviced worldwide. Problem is ubiquitous and well documented in Ford TSB's, recalls, and NHTSA historical record. I would ask dealer if they ever heard of the Ford Pinto...
Very interesting document, I live in the Dominican Republic and have a 2013 Ford explorer and I have been forced to change the system twice.
My dad has a 2013 f150 and his steering just went. Thank goodness not in traffic. Good info. Nice diagnosis
Excellent and thorough video. Thank you for the hard work investigating this and then providing that info to the masses.
another investigation was started in sept 2016. please file yor complaints about this issue. I did mine today after total failure driving down the highway. thanks for the video and the work you did.
Your welcome, and hope video was helpful. I was not aware of additional investigation in 2016, is the NHTSA involved? Please point to information. Also, please describe your steering failure experience in detail. Were you placed in danger? What year and model?
Great video, you are definitely right! I never even thought about it but my steering motor started acting up a couple months after I started getting a bank 1 catalyst efficiency code on my 2012 explorer. All steming from a poorly designed valve cover allowing oil pass into the intake thus causing the catalytic converter to overheat wich likely caused some type of damage to the poorly designed steering system. Mine is intermittently loosing power assist without setting any codes. So I'm planning on replacing the valve cover , converter and rack all at once. I had never even considered that the exhaust could of caused the steering to fail
I have a 2015 Ford Explorer V6 and we were driving down the highway and our P/S cut out. Power Steering assist failure lights came on, Terrain selector lights came on because of this. Our car had less than 19,000 miles on it. Ford sure isn't what it used to be. Thankfully it was covered under warranty. Thanks for the video. Now I'm curious as to what other catastrophic failure I might expect.
Encountered an oil cooler hose 2 inches from front cat on escapes. Super smart design. Replace only with oem hose. Thanks for the video I am facing similar problem on hybrid.
I own a 2011 Lincoln AWD, MKT 3.5L Ecoboost. Last year I replaced a failed front transfer case with the new Ford modified "C" unit. I also had a failed electric power steering unit replaced, after the steering wheel almost jerked out of my hands going into a left turn. The power steering was dead. After CAA towed it to the ford dealer the unit was replaced in April 2021, however l had to return to the ford dealership four times for adjustments on the steering unit and 4 wheel alignment. Still the problem persisted as the power assist warning light would cause an alarm and light bracking on left turns. Ford could not fix the problem so i did not permit mhy wife to drive the Lincoln for concern for her safty.
Last week September 2022, one year and five mouths after the first replacement of the electric steering unit, the electric steering failed a second time as I was pulling out of a parking lot with my wife in the car. She had to assist me in making the right turn. The ford dealership happened to be down the street so I drove it back to them and had them drive us home. The next day I was informed that the lincoln needed another $2,800 electric steering unit and ford would not pay.
My 2011 lincoln MKT is currently under a manufacturers safety recall in the USA and Canada. However, ford told the dealership that they will not replace the defective unit as they placed a three month warranty on the steering unit.
I have filed a formal complaint with Ford Canada and wait for there reply. (28 September 2022).
Ford has defrauded consumers for years. Your experience is typical and repeated many times over for others posting Ford fraudulent EPAS activities. Ford has established network of specialists including engineers, attorneys, and customer service representatives specifically to evade and repulse customer complaints involving flawed EPAS system failures. Ford engineering and management are acutely aware of EPAS engineering deficiencies, and subsequently developed well maintained plan to defraud customers by actually pulling profit on EPAS repairs. NHTSA is no-show as consumer vehicle safety agency. Fact that EPAS failures are dangerous seems to be of no concern since no one has been killed yet. Or perhaps someone has, and incident has been 'handled' like the Ford Pinto investigation (conducted by Ford). Your best option is to cut losses and stay away from Ford products. EPAS failure could have harmed you or family, do not trust repaired EPAS system. Ford will levy ton of pain and frustration if you pursue warranty repairs.
Thanks to your video I saved my nephew $1,700. He was treated well.
What u do to get your nephew treated well from ford?
My son has a 2010 Ford Escape with the exact same issue. Ford said the recall was closed out and I am on my own!!! Lifetime Ford owner just egressed!!!!
Great job and good jod with explanations of this problem.. I own a 2016 ford explorer 2.3 the power steering went out I took it to the Ford dealership for a check up. $2520 to replace I just can't believe this happened its 4 year old. Ford need to step up and fix this problem. There's hundreds of complaints with the same problem. Like you said on your comments.. ' Ford is putting us on risk of injuries or death'. I hope that that's not what they are wanting for it would be a super lawsuit against Ford... And it's not to far away from happening... As for me I would never buy a Ford vehicle not even as a toy.. Great video thanks we need more people like you.
Thanks, good to know information assisted in repairs. Yet another Ford customer lost...
Same thing happened to me. Middle of Wyoming first day of a vacation...2200 dollar rack replacement
This is one of the best part analysis and explanations I've ever seen on here dude. Wow.
My 2013 Focus SE has this same issue! Full Power Steering loss. The car cannot turn either direction. That issue, along with a continuously failing automatic transmission, makes owning a Ford very frustrating and expensive! Thanks a lot Ford. (And people wonder why Imports are sought after.)
i have a 2005 chevy equinox the epas system is under the steering wheel inside the cab, no heat issues there haven't had any failures and what i like about it is they sell the individual parts motor, computer module, sensors
for sells a complete unit for $1350
great documentary... hope ppl will never buy a ford again... and that will send them a message...
I have a 2014 Ford Flex with this issue, and it is not included in the recall - which makes no sense, since the recall occurred in 2015, but does not include the 2014 model.
That’s us, ours is a 2014 as well. This happened first on vacation winding roads and mountains. Scary 💩 Ford said can’t find anything. I think they know damn well and we’re all collateral damage. When it happens, if I turn off the car it goes straight back to how it is supposed to be. Now it’s happened this week about three times. We’re supposed to leave on vacation to that Mountain Curvy Road again.
I have a 2014 Ford Flex with the same issue. Very scary situation when you go from normal steering to failure, especially when maneuvering on a curve. I will never buy another Ford again after dealing with this experience.
I agree, same issue here 15 focus st
I have a 2017 Ford focus SE. Ford initiated a buy back program on 2012 - 2016 models with the power shift transmission. My 2017 has the same transmission and the vehicle is not being included in the settlement. This transmission is terrible. Ford replaced the clutch assembly for me under warranty, less than 10,000 miles later the same symptoms are occurring, violent shaking between gear shifts, just 1,000 miles outside of warranty, no concern from Ford at all. I'm being treated as a liability rather than a customer. I have had so many problems with this vehicle that are normally unheard of at this kind of mileage. I have replaced wheel bearings, a water pump and now I'll have to pay over a thousand dollars to replace this clutch and it will most likely just repeat itself in under 10,000 miles again. I'll never buy another Ford in my life. Several lawsuits have been filed and rejected.
Complete "Failure Of Power Steering Assist" on my 2012 Fusion SEL AWD (46,000 mi) as identified on dashboard message. The wheel won't even turn! Hard as a rock! I bought this car exactly 2 weeks ago! Called Ford about the "Field Service Actions" listed on their site when I registered my car VIN#. "The EPAS Steering Efforts Action" is #15N01. Ford told me at that time there was a 50% chance of this failure but that I was covered for 10 years from 2012 or 100,000 mi. (WCF). I plan to call the Dealer and have my car towed tomorrow. It is completely un- drivable. I'm sick about this! Why aren't more people reporting this? What should I tell the Dealer? Would appreciate anyone's advice. Thank you all! Subscribed
Ford action on EPAS failures is criminal. Millions of owners have not only been placed in harms way, but defrauded out of hard earned money. Ford enjoys profit from EPAS repairs, and NHTSA sits idle and allows Ford to self regulate its failures. State of automotive manufacturing and safety regulation has become circus act.
Clearing the codes may make it temporarily drivable again, so you can at least get it to a shop.
@@sibertigers1138 Tried that several times. Driving error fault came right back on display.
@@bk1468 IM AT THIS POINT NOW WITH MY 2012 FORD FUSION. AND I FEEL LIKE FORD SHOULD HAVE RECALL ON THIS ISSUE.
I have 2010 Ford Fusion and had this happen just last week on way home...This is definitely a safety issue and Ford has no concern for public safety..Mind you this car has had 12 different recalls...on various items including gas tank, throttle control module..NHTSA NEEDS TO BRING THESE ISSUES TO LIGHT AND HOLD FORD RESPONSIBLE..
My 2010 Ford Fusion is showing all the signs now. A 9 year old car I've owned for 6. I keep getting "service advancetrac" and "power steering assist fault." I talked to Ford and they don't care to help. I was told technical answers for issues are only for the technicians through a service center. I had to have it towed to a ford service department and they told me the rack has to be replaced and it'll be $2500. My car is worth that much! I can't even talk to an actual trained technician, they want me to go through the advisor that doesn't know anything. I can't believe as a loyal ford customer they will not work with me or even give me an answer on a root cause/fix. I'm not sure what I'm going to do, but I may just get rid of it and put money that would go into repairs into another vehicle. I appreciate the video. It has helped.
Happy video was helpful; sorry you own Ford product. Millions of alternate Ford owners have been dragged through dirt like you. Ford's lack of professionalism and refusal to own-up to serious design faults will eventually drive business into ground. Especially since Ford has acted with criminal negligence concerning once loyal customers; who will never touch another Ford product, and make sure the 'word' concerning Ford is passed on. Your point concerning vehicle worth is valid; $2,500.00 investment is waste, since replacement unit will fail again in future. Use funds to purchase non-US designed vehicle, at least you can count of NHTSA taking action against non-US based manufacturer.
My 2010 Ford Flex Ecoboost is not covered but it completely gave out on me on the 5 freeway. It was freightening! Ford dealership said they will not cover it
My best friend's 2011 Chevy Cruze had an intermittent steering issue, different from the Ford in that the steering would just stop responding at times. The wheel itself would still turn, but the car wouldn't. The last time it did it, he drove into a bridge rail at ~30 mph. Totaled the car, but didn't seriously hurt him. Problem is well known, but GM refuses to acknowledge it. Really makes me glad that my daily-driver 1978 F150 doesn't have any of these problems.
My dad has a 2011 F150 with the first gen EPAS. The steering will randomly bind, and become a nightmare to control. Then go back to normal suddenly. Called FORD service, and they basically tried to avoid any sort of answer. I asked them if they have seen this a lot, and they essentially wouldn't answer. I tried to dig deeper and they just backed away from the issue. This is a death trap issue, and unbelievable they are so non-nonchalant about it. Going to replace the unit on my own with a Rockauto rem-man and do the re-code with ForScan.
Remember; replacement unit has not been re-designed in any way. Thermal exposure under hood will cause failure of replacement unit over time; for some Ford customers, this has been as little as weeks. Strongly suggest disposing of hazardous vehicle post replacement. Just matter of time before fatalities caused by Ford steering system failures.
@@bk1468 Indeed! Here was FORD's reply today. More of the same.
Thank you for contacting the Ford of Canada Customer Relationship Centre, my name is Diana. We received your email on June 18 regarding your concern.
We do regret the circumstances for which you have contacted us regarding the steering in your father’s F-150. We can understand your concern and frustration with the cost of the repair as well. The warranty provided by Ford of Canada for this repair was for 3 years or 60,000 kilometres whichever occurs first from the warranty start date which was May 10, 2011.
Ford is proactive in trying to identify areas of concern through investigating consumer and dealer feedback. Not all issues investigated will result in a recall or program. We have reviewed your situation, and there are no warranties, recalls or customer satisfaction programs on your vehicle that would provide assistance for this repair.
I am truly sorry that we cannot meet your expectations in this instance. Thank you for taking the time to write us about the details of your concern.
On behalf of myself and millions of other former Ford owners; we can only hope this company burns for its engineering incompetence, criminal negligence, and complete lack of responsible action in face of critically hazardous vehicle system design. Ford is associated with long and deadly history of producing critically flawed automobiles. And is well known for ignoring hazardous engineering flaws, and failing to take or even acknowledge safety concerns. I realized how corrupt Ford corporate was when I sued Ford. The Ford attorney attempted to criminalize me in court by insisting smoke pouring from my exhaust from failed Ecoboost engine was due to me placing oil in mufflers. This accusation was so blatant, hostile, ridiculous and baseless; Judge ruled against Ford and my case was won. You are dealing with an organization that will do anything to protects its public image. Ford legal is dirty, sly and never to be trusted. It is through their own instrument of plunder this company will fall.
They know there's a heat problem. The owners manual says if the power starting assist faults out, let the car cool and that should help. I purchased my escape 3 months ago and my vehicle just faulted out. You'd think the 28 degree weather would have helped a little. So what do we do, bend over and take or up the a**? My vin isn't on the recall list.
Yes take it baby. Ford is SO HARD rn.
My fusion 2012 sel was taken to a shop for “service advancetrac” “service power steering” code. They said it was rack and pinion, so I shoveled out $1400, two weeks later and tonight my power steering went out again!
This man is a genius! My 2012 Ford Fusion 2.5 fwd had this same problem about 6 months ago. Luckily I did my research and found out my car was covered under the extended recall warranty. They replaced it free of charge which would have been $1800. Being like this man I wanted to know why it failed in the first place. After poking around for a while I figured it was the exhaust manifold that comes off the back of the engine and within inches of the electronic module/box of these epas racks and frying them due to overheating. I bought some heat shielding wrap that does a good job of deflecting the heat and wrapped the electronics with it and will pray it doesn’t happen again because it won’t be under warranty much longer. 🙏🏻 Thanks for the video sir, great job!
I have the same problem and my car shows by ford having no recall on this matter is there a recall #?
Mine is a 2012 ford fusion 2.5
@@briankulhanek4720 Recall #15S18
Your car will be covered don’t let the dealership tell you otherwise. You can call Ford at 1-866-436-7332 to confirm
Here in Brazil, we recovered this box. She has a chronic problem, so I began to repair, today I am a recuperator and her salesman.
:( mine just broke and i have zero steering. Ford wants $1800 to replace!
I know NOTHING about cars except getting oil changes, rotating tires, and getting my car checked out on occasion.
My 2012 Ford Focus has the power steering failure msg come on occasionally, and it takes all my strength to turn the wheel. Then I start it another place, and it's back to normal...?
My mechanic didn't catch it WHEN it happened, so he couldn't explain it.
With my arthritis and torn shoulder, I'm scared something BAD is going to happen😯
No more Fords for me😠
Based what you discovered I have to tell you that you are 110% right...
It happened to my 2016 ford taurus and i noticed it happened in summer time during Hot days...
After clearing codes it went back to working order ( really weird stuff) .
It happened 3 times already with the same outcome...
I smale something over heating like burn stuff and than boom .. steering goes down.. clear codes back to normal...
I have chavy cars for many years... but Fors what a failure... if not steering overheating than PTU over heating and stinks like cooking gas ( rotten eggs) ... ford has lot of problems
The days of "Do it yourselfers" Are starting to come to a end with these newer cars.
True, and I would say, those days have been gone for some time. I keep an old restored early 70's muscle car in garage. No electronics, fancy features, or even electric fuel pump. Frame manufactured using thick steel, trim is real chrome plated metal, interior is leather with metal accents. Basic and simple Chevy 350 V8; completely void of ECM, sensors and modern gadgets. Vehicle has been running for nearly 45 years, no engine failures, wheel bearing replacements, etc. Tell me why automotive industry has evolved to design and produce outrageously complex, expensive, technology excessive, inferior material laden, poor quality, and poorly designed disasters labeled as luxury sedans. Automotive engineers today cannot even design a wheel bearing that lasts beyond 30K miles; with steel bearing assembly pressed into aluminum wheel hub (turns to solid mass due to galvanic reaction; basic chemistry 101). It is really quite pathetic and sad; what our so called high-technology and sciences have become. In old engineering school; we were coached that all design should include balance between performance, technology and most importantly 'simplicity'. This basic concept has proved fundamental to quality, endurance and reliability in engineering implementations. Guess these basic concepts were lost somewhere during maximizing-profit and minimizing-cost philosophies.
@@bk1468 its been two years since your comment but damn. 2021 and its still the best comment on cars ive read ever.
@@jetfu400 Thank you, just quoting reality.
Important note about industrial vs automotive temperature grades and how engineers design modules to meet regulatory specifications. Designing an electronic implementation to adhere to industrial, automotive or extended temperature range specifications can present daunting design challenge. Related to simple or limited component count implementations; challenge can be manageable. However for high-level integration designs incorporating mixed-signal, computational and high-count component implementations; the challenge becomes great.
Incorporating 100% automotive grade components within highly-complex electronic implementation is not only impractical for most designers; but extremely expensive, time consuming, and introduces many specific assembly and manufacturing requirements to meet specification.
One engineering approach to achieving automotive temperature specification, is to utilize lower-grade sub-components sealed within an assembly, specifically designed to 'buffer' (or protect) internal components from higher-grade temperature environment. This approach often uses high-thermally conductive materials to remove and dissipate heat energy away from sub-temperature grade components. This is precisely the case with the Ford EPAS assembly, which includes commercial and industrial class components internal to an aluminum enclosure, designed with specific intent to provide thermal isolation. Ford's implementation also includes large air-collection cowl that passively channels cooling directly over the EPAS aluminum enclosure. In effect, the EPAS aluminum enclosure collects and stores thermal energy from the automotive grade environment, and this energy is dissipated using airflow via cowl induction.
Unfortunately, this approach failed in the Ford integration, since Ford engineers unwisely placed catalytic converter, exhaust pipe, and turbo assembly within inches of EPAS enclosure. To further compound this failure; passive cooling-cowl only moves air with vehicle in motion. Drive with engine under loaded condition, stop vehicle at red light or sit with engine running, and you have super-heating of EPAS enclosure. Over time, internal EPAS components fail due to thermal stress.
Conclusions represent simple and logical disposition of current Ford EPAS system failures; based on common engineering design practices, measured operational parameters, and visual thermal stress indicators internal to EPAS assembly. Not to mention millions of failed EPAS units in the field with not one plausible or verifiable disposition from Ford or the NHTSA. Did anyone even notice fact EPAS units continued to fail by the millions in spite of Ford supposed fix related to connector misalignment during assembly? Apparently the NHTSA did not!
My 2012 Fusion sedan completely lost power steering in the parking lot two weeks after purchase. The dealer replaced 2,000 dollars in components and labor for no charge.
I had the same problem with my 2011 Ford Explorer!! No power steering, rack and pinion lossed! They also, mentioned about the catalyst converter, tires and brakes!! Ford wanted to charge me $3700 to fix! It was NOT covered under a recall or a warranty!!
I'm having the same problem with my flex. Unbelievable
Also guys, these steering boxes are not water proof or even water resistant. They welcome outside water as if you have invited someone for a dinner party !
Your like the Sherlock Holmes of investigating poor automotive design. Well done. Shame on Ford,.
The power steering just went out on my Ford Escape from Kansas. Im going to get a hold of them with proof to get this recalled.
Good luck! Mine has gone out TWICE in a year and a half. Ford does not care.
This is true for only cares about air bags
Thanks for the detailed analysis of the problem. I subscribed hoping for more videos like it in the future. BTW, I'd definitely watch any other videos like this where you review recall issues or common failures. I have a 13 Focus exhibiting the 'Power Steering Failure' from time to time and I'd really like to see a video on that.
Just had to have my 2010 Fusion towed to the dealership for this same problem. I only have 64,000 miles and in the last 3 months have already had to replace fuel injector and need to replace struts as well. When I get this fixed I will be trading it in on a Honda. It's ridiculous for them to not recall this part especially since its the same as the 2011- 2013. Will never buy a Ford again.
I have a 2007 Ford Escape Hybrid. My steering went out almost 4 months ago. I had no idea this problem was so commonplace. I will look into trading what's left of my vehicle, but I will never get anything from Ford that has electric power steering.
I have the 2012 Explorer and I'm having the same issue, my power steering just cut off while driving, Says TMS Fault and Power Steering.
Thanks for the deep investigation- your correct on everything.
2016 ford explorer police interceptor-owner. Power steering acting weird- I am knowing it’s expensive
You won’t know until it fails it gives very little warning.
If you are interested we have a 2013 Ford Flex with a similar steering issue except ours gives your theory some support. In the summer it works intermittently, mostly not working however when it rains it works perfect giving some evidence to yo our claims of thermal issues.
Thanks... Body of evidence supporting thermal stress design flaw is supported from various sources. Symptom vs physical evidence is important; as symptoms only support probability of failure disposition, and physical evidence asserts direct cause. Burned MOSFETS and gobs of thermal compound directly imply thermal stress management problem. Thermal stress in electronic implementations can exhibit many and various symptoms prior to full failure; your description of failure is absolutely included in subset. Symptomatic failure is precisely where Ford wants to dwell; as failure can be attributed to various causes; software, manufacturing, electrical connectivity, etc, can all be theorized as root cause for failures (Ford has already played some of these cards). But Ford will never disclose any hint of engineering design flaw. Ford prefers to fraudulently pretend to correct problem with EPAS software update; while voiding your manufacturers warranty if customers allow procedure. Yes; Ford demanded customers with failing EPAS symptoms to surrender vehicle to dealer (where software was downloaded that did nothing more than report additional OBD failure codes and messages). Vehicles were then returned to customers (without any corrective action) with modified software and warranty indicating Ford would not be responsible for subsequent EPAS failures following software update. The NHTSA silently watched as Ford implemented this policy to defraud millions of consumers worldwide.
Got a 2018 ford edge did the same. You don't even have manual steering. They needed this recalled
Same happened to me. Inside by the Electric Motor where that internal belt is, that bottom roller (internal pulley) that he belts is connected to, that bottom roller has bearings and on mine the bearings are worn making a rubbing noise while turning. My thought is putting some header heat rap over that cat to keep the heat off of it.
Ford Escape 2.5L FWD, lost power steering, warning lights came on "power steering assist fault" in the driving. totally failed when I tried to re-start in a parking lot. Contacted Ford Canada. Ford said they can't help. recall was closed years ago.
OK Many thanks for this detailed explanation , as long as the main reason for loss the steering power is the overheating from the engine- catalyst or whatever!! so how to avoid this and to protect the steering motor for the overheating ! Well just an opinion to put so thermal insulator or to install and fix a small fan over the steering motor to keep it cool ! I have 2012 ford fusion 4 cylinder 2.5L ?
As an engineer, I have experience with design of intrinsically-safe and regulatory agency qualified electronic implementations. It was expressly my job as an engineer; to specify components and design circuitry that adhered to various standards of the trade. Intrinsically safe design is serious business; with legal ramifications if regulatory specifications are not adhered to. I can tell you many stories associated with use of improper temperature rated components, cooling and ventilation implementations, and frantic 11th hour attempts to correct an improperly designed thermally stressed system. It may seem like logical approach to ventilate given stressed system with cooling; however one must consider many factors and approach problem from an energy standpoint. The sheer amount of energy involved in an engine compartment is staggering. Nothing short of serious CFM with cold air input will achieve much; otherwise hot air is just moved around. The amount of CFM to keep the large aluminum EPAS housing cooled would need to be determined experimentally, since no data is available to make meaningful thermodynamic calculations. You must also consider that many Ford models already include extensive attempts to cool EPAS assembly; including dual air-dams mounted under engine, and aluminum heat shield around EPAS electronics enclosure area. Clearly Ford was fully aware of thermal issues; otherwise none of these measures would have been implemented.
Automotive steering systems represent critical and essential automotive component. Given an EPAS system is to be implemented under hood of modern automobile; design must adhere to automotive standards of intrinsic safety. Placing non-automotive temperature qualified components within an aluminum housing and blowing air over it, then calling it 'automotive qualified' is clearly at heart of Ford's problem. Alternate manufacturers have opted to implement EPAS related assemblies within cabin; which common sense would dictate. Ford is not even able to design an EPAS system meeting full automotive temperature grade. This is due to fact technology required to implement EPAS functionality is highly mixed-signal, mixed mechanics by nature (i.e. microcontrollers, memory storage, motor drive, optical encoders, sub-miniature wiring and connectors, high-density interconnect cables, brushless motors, timing belts, large capacitors, high-density SMT PCB's, etc. Many of these components are not readily available in extended temperature ranges, available from very limited vendors, and prohibitive by cost.
Appreciate your detailed video, 2012 focus se at the dealer nowwith $2000 price tag at 6000 miles out of warranty, still trying to decide what path to take
Please remember replacement EPAS units have not been redesigned to automotive temperature specifications. Replacements will fail once placed in same hot engine compartment; some on short order, others maybe longer.
My 2010 flex eco boost just did the same to me..no warning was on highway from Chicago to Memphis for a family reunion.. now stuck 300 miles away from home ..any quick fixes?
Oh my! I will never get a Ford. Never. "Steering Assit Fault. Service Required" I have checked the EPAS fuse which still looks good. I am done with this 2013 Ford Escape SEL 2.0 Ecoboost. I have always been a fan of Ford now I see why people stay away from American made cars in general. Shame on Ford.
Same message right know on focus mk3 2011... I can drive but without servodirection it's like an old tractor...If You know what I mean...
Wonder if ford is watching this?🤔
Ford has established massive PR department and thousands of attorneys and engineers around globe to deal with customers who take matters to court. If you take legal action against Ford; you will be subjected to fierce resistance and formidable legal resources in court battle. Ford will demand your vehicle be relinquished to local dealer for inspection (days) by one of their special 'field evaluation' engineers. These engineers will produce bogus detailed evaluation document outlining specifically why Ford is not responsible for vehicle deficiencies. In addition, document will include 'biased opinion' that you contributed in some way to problem. Ford will attempt to use this engineering document in court to sway case in favor of dismissal. My vehicle was evaluated using this process. The Ford engineer actually attempted to criminalize me with report sighting smoking engine was result of oil placed in muffler. Ford failed to realize I was retired engineer with experience in thermodynamics. A muffler does not immediately become hot upon starting engine. In addition, mufflers rarely reach temperatures sufficient to burn oil. From cold start; engine produced heavy smoke due to internal failure. Ford was caught with their pants down in case; matter settled in my favor. Case would have ended very differently if Ford was not called on their attempted fraud; in this case science was used to prove criminal conduct.
Ford is the Scientology of the automotive industry. I now trust Ford about as much as I would trust Casey Anthony to watch my kids .
my 2015 explorer went to manual steering this week, no warning what so ever, can't see ford ignoring hundreds if not thousands of failures. Something has to be done.
Not only is Ford ignoring design flaw and safety hazard; but claiming hefty profit off customer repairs on average 2K per vehicle. Number of failures in millions, not thousands.
My daughter had a steering "hard over" and brought to the dealer. She had previously paid $1500 for a steering motor replacement. This time they told her she needed another $1500 in steering column repairs as well as a 4 wheel alignment when done. They charged her $150 for an alleged inspection by a mechanic to arrive at this estimate. I instructed her to bring it to my shop and they warned her that if I fixed it they would have to charge her another $150 to "re-program the electronics". We put it in the air and immediately spotted a failed steering coupler that was nearly separated. It was a $140 retail part that took one-half an hour to replace. It had absolutely nothing to do with any of the repairs called out on their estimate or the problem. This reveals a "top-down" policy of fraud and deception by Ford and their dealers. They are certainly not the only ones doing this, of course. That doesn't make it OK. I am filing a complaint with the MN AG office.
Ford is a $200B syndicate, Ford dealers do what they are told and collectively process consumers for profit. There is no state or government agency that will go against one of the greatest money makers in the US (auto industry). The whole system is connected from business to politics. What amazes me is people continue to purchase Ford products. You should here some Ford enthusiasts defend Ford like zombies. Amazing!
I habe a 2014 ford focus SE and this happened to me too. I will be taking it into the dealership in the morning. Hope I don't wreck because it failed
I believe you are on the right path heat and electronics don't mix
My 2011 Mustang GT is experiencing some issues with the steering. At first I thought it had to do with the AC taking power of the steering but then I shut that off and the problem still continues. My car jerks when I turn slowly, it sounds as if the motor wants to turn the wheel but insted of turning it spins. I am not sure how to go about fixing this issue and I hope the car gets fixed under the recall otherwise I am pretty much screwed
B Smith - I had a similar issue in a 2013 Fusion Hybrid. I relaced the steering gear with a remanufactured steering gear (Fords price point forced me to reman) and it works, but intermittently. When the car is stopped the assisted steering gear seems to shut off and I loose all EAPS, its not until I travel a few feet that it turn back on and functions as it should. I've tried using FORScan to reset all modules and that works while the car remains stationary, but as soon as I start to drive, it reverts back to working intermittently. It seems like a communication issue between the PCM and PSCM but I'm not entirely sure on this. Any suggestions?
Really informative video everything is great except really bad intermittent wind noise.
steering not working, i went garage, wires are fried. after repair. 2 weeks now, still same error coming, how to stop it
Did you ever figure it out
I have a 2011 ford fusion, my steering stopped working as I was on the freeway. Scariest thing I've ever witnessed...
Faith Barbie I’m sooo sorry that happened. I have the same car this is frighten to me cause my car have the same recall that has expired and I refuse to pay that amount of money with all the bad reviews and comments on here. I just drive slow n don’t drive the freeway at all. I just bought this car for cash money now I see why they sold it. So I guess I’m a resale it
Thank you sir learned alot. I like your engineering troubleshooting skills
HI, here in Argentina the ford focus 2015 have the same problem with the steering system and is too expensive to repair.
thanks for the video.
H bridge failure can occur due to the fact electric motors require a lot of starting current due to inductive nature, and the load on them makes them draw even more current, and these MOSFETS even if rated twice the maximum current in a stalled state can fail contributed by temperature increase, and aluminum housing unable to dissipate heat as it gets even more hotter by being in a close proximity to other heat sources near by.
If an H bridge fails especially the two diametrically opposite transistors, it can continuously power the motor to turn the steering wheel by itself without an input from the driver, which can cause a fatal crash especially when you might be going at 50 MPH or more, I think electric power steering assistance are pretty dangerous and should be outlawed, unless provisions are made to use some other control technology where current is pulsed and each pulse is monitored so that if any transistor became a shorted out, then it would give a continuous power and as soon as the monitoring system detects this it shuts down the power to the transistors by using an electro- mechanical high power relay.
The first company to come out with a manual power steering rack to replace this electric steering will make a fortune. Amazing I have not had one single problem with my Mustang.
My 2015 Taurus had the steering become difficult to turn a few times but it went away after shutting the car off and restarting. There was an alarm of "Steering Assist Fault Service Required". Three days ago the same thing happened but neither the alarms or issue goes away after restarting the car. There is also an alarm this time "Service AdvanceTrac" that comes on as well. I have not taken the car to the Ford garage yet but it doesn't look like there is a simple fix to this issue
There is no simple fix, your EPAS is hazardous and will require replacement. If your vehicle is under recall, do not take partially failing EPAS to Ford, Ford will make software upgrade (that does nothing but display additional error codes) and send you on your way. Ford will then void your recall replacement option at this point, and you will be required to pay for repairs.
I experienced the same with my 2015 Focus. The problem was intermittent. It would correct itself if i turned the key off and back on, or shut the car off and cam back y=to it. This time, it is not fixing itself and the steering is extremely difficult at low speeds.
My 2013 Ford Explorer had issues with losing its GPS location and periodically reduced power steering (steering wheel was hard to turn). Eventually my battery failed and I replaced it. Since replacing my battery I haven't had either of these issues reoccur. I did notice that the factory battery was Motorcraft BXT 59 540 and the recommended replacement was Motorcraft BAGM 48 760. The latter has much greater Cold Cranking Amps and reserve capacity . I don't know if the bigger battery fixed my problems or the computers were "reset" by replacing the battery. But I know it wasn't just a coincidence.
Wow my 2011 Ford Fusion has the same problem
I have '10 milan, and I dread buying a new rack and pinion
I was always told that fords are not good cars to buy sense I was 16 years old they always said Ford means found on side road died. But as a adult I said I’m try to give it benefit of a doubt cause you can’t go by what everybody tell you. Shitting me never again out of 8 cars I’ve had though out my life first time buying a ford and last time they just threw these dam cars together piece crap they all to be ashamed of there selves and get shut down for putting lives in danger😤
My 2010 fusion power steering stopped working last night as I was leaving a store. Turned it off and on and it came back. I fully expect it to be completely fried next time I drive. My fear is it will work long enough to get me to highway speed then kill me and my daughter and whoever is in our path. The vehicle isn't worth the cost of the repair and I'm not selling it because it's a death trap. It is definitely my LAST Ford.
I went with 2018 Mazda GT 3 hatchback i got 5 year unlimited mileage warranty. I was sold almost 100Ks of only being in city doi ng deliveries. Only brake pads so far.
Very easy explanation. I've learned a lot today
I have a 2009 ford flex and same situation. It would seem. Are they made with the same power steering system?
This eps Bull Shit has made me hate ford. 2010 fusion steering first went out on my mother on her way home from chemotherapy in 2017. We had it replaced (well over a thousand dollars bilked from my dying mother) and the warranty of course is no good now. After her passing I ended up with the piece of Ford. It went out on my daughter (new driver) yesterday. Coronavirus has me on edge already but Ford is pushing my over it. They want to fix the airbag problem but nothing with the eps unit. Hmmm maybe Ford wants to give the face a nice landing place when the mfkn eps unit fails again....
Fock Ford
2014 escape SE here. same problems. $1800 through dealership. this is absolutely ridiculous.
Sorry for your troubles and welcome to the exclusive failed Ford EPAS club. I wonder if you would be kind enough to comment further on your experience; i.e. elaborating on any hazardous conditions, or Ford customer service stories. Thanks...
fault occurred once about a year ago but cleared on power cycle. then about a month ago it started faulting frequently but still would clear on power cycle. last week that ship sailed it comes on before you even start the car. took it to the dealership two days ago and hit me with the quote on this. 82k miles so out of warranty and sol basically. so that's where i am currently, fortunately i have a 01 Toyota pickup for home depot runs and such that i am able to drive. i too work in electrical engineering (HVAC industry) this just boggles my mind that this is what so many customers are left with. i have a 60 mile commute in city traffic one way, the car is unsafe to drive.
Hello. I have a 2013 flex that is at the dealership now for a power steering failure. They said it “lost communication”. And the pscm has to be replaced for $3200. Now I have ford basecare extended warranty that says it covers the power steering housing (manual and power). Is that fightable to force them to cover it under warranty?
Not able to comment on warranty coverage issues, but you can bet Ford will do everything to discourage coverage if they can.
In my case. It has only happened when I start the car (2011 F150), so I turn off and on again and it seems to do the job, but yesterday i had to do it 3 times consecutively to get it to work again. My concern is loosing the ability to steer while driving.. And think there is more to it than just the heat, or maybe the damage has been done to the electronics due to heat.. I do live in Florida, but the first time this happened was on a relatively cool morning with 77degree weather..
Most probably position-feedback rotary optical encoder beginning to fail. There are two of these encoders in implementation; one on drive motor shaft and second on steering shaft input. Rotary encoders are very delicate precision implementations; prone to failures from shock, vibration, thermal and quality of design. Hi performance servo implementation commonly use premium-quality and redundant rotary encoders to insure reliability and failure detection; but you will find neither in Ford's implementation. One can expect numerous and varying failure dispositions related to EPAS systems; simply due to magnitude of design and implementation complexity. Introduction of thermal stress on system degrades semiconductor materials and greatly increases probability of single-point failures. Today in could be an LED in optical encoder, tomorrow motor drive transistor. This is folly of highly-complex over-stressed electronic implementations in automotive applications. Ford engineers just don't seem to understand fundamental concept of failure mitigation in high-reliability engineering design.
PLEASE READ THIS: My EPAS failed at 90'000 miles for the first time. It was 3 weeks after we bought the car (we are the third owner Ford Flex 2012).
After restarting the car it worked again. But I read in the manual that it will stop working for ever if you don't bring it to the dealer. Well this was not easy for me since the car was imported from Canada to Switzerland and this car is not officially sold here. Ford Europe also isn't connected with Ford America.
The Ford dealer contacted Ford America and they told him what he has to do. THIS IS IMPORTANT:
First they have to read out the error codes. If there is ANY code connected to the EPAS (there is a list with those codes) the dealer MUST replace the whole unit FOR FREE and install a softwareupdate. If there is no error he has to update the software. If after the update (doesn't matter how long it can be 2 years) ANY of the codes occurs, the dealer MUST replace the whole unit ALSO FOR FREE. This is written in the document the dealer has sent for the recall to the dealers. If your dealer refuses to do it for free you should contact Ford.
What I think the bad dealers do is, that the charge the money 2 times. They get the money and parts for free from Ford and charge YOU so they have double the money.
I really didn't expect Ford to take care of my problem since the car is imported from Canada to Switzerland but they did. They also paid everything and believe me the cost for the work is much more expensive in Switzerland than anywhere else. They still paid everything and i appreciate that. Ofcourse I'm not happy that the EPAS failed but I hope it will never fail again.
One thing: The dealer will replace the EPAS unit onli 1 time for free.
I hope this will help other people so they know what their dealer has to do.
Other than that I'm very happy with this car. It's very fast and nimble, it has a lot of legroom and cargo space (I'm a very tall guy over 195cm). It has great gas mileage considering it's size and power and it's very safe in the rain. I haven't tried it out in the snow yet but I'm sure it will behave well. The only thing I don't like about the car is that the suspension is pretty hard (which gives good handling but you won't like driving it on bad roads). It's still very comfortable on long roadtrips. My legs didn't hurt like they did in our Cadillac STS we had before, even though the seats are harder. The seating position is higher which helps a tall guy a lot.
You were indeed fortunate your vehicle year was included in recall. Unfortunately, many millions of owners were excluded from recall; owning identical equipment and experiencing identical failures. Be informed that Ford never voluntarily initiated recall; it was only after years of failures and NHTSA action that Ford did anything. In fact, Ford has still not acknowledged problem publicly or disclosed nature of defect in honest manner. Ford explanation to NHTSA (which was the only published disclosure of issue) was that Chinese manufacturers assembled electronics improperly; sighting connector alignment and ribbon cable problem. These problems never existed and the real failure disposition continues to remain enigmatic to consumers; the way Ford want's it.
Ford EPAS implementation remains one of Ford's major historical blunders, and represents serious safety hazard and costly liability to consumers. EPAS design remains unchanged, so replacement units are subject to failure over time and use.
BTW, you should conduct additional investigation associated with other Flex design issues; e.g. brake lockup, turbo, transmission, PTU and engine failures, throttle body, timing chain, spark plug failures, gas tank leak issue, engine exhaust smoke, intercooler, others. Ford vehicle engineering remains at the bottom of the industry, many owners, like myself, have learned this lesson the hard and expensive way. My Flex only had 16K miles at onset of first major mechanical issue, Ford America fought me every step of the way to avoid repair under factory warranty.
K Smith
Thank you for the answer. I‘m sorry to hear you had such a bad experience (and other people too). I will check out the other issues you mentioned. I hope they will not appear on my car. It has almost 100k miles now. Other than the EPAS we had no other issues. Would be great if it stays like that for another 80k miles.
They don‘t build their cars with love like they used to...they do it only for the money. It‘s a shame because the car itself and the way it drives and handles is very nice. Before we bought the ford flex we had a cadillac seville sts 2003. We had it for 7 years and I read a lot of bad things about the car on the internet...but thankfully they never appeared on our car. I hope for the same with our „new“ car.
I‘m really not a ford guy so I won‘t defend their mistakes. We had 3 GM cars, Chrysler, Honda, Lexus and now ford...I only shared my experience. Every manufacturer has its issues. My friend bought a new Audi Q7 a few days ago and it already started having electrical issues. Like I said they don‘t build them with love and pride anymore.
Have a nice day.
Figures, they recalled the 2011-2013, but not your 2010 year. Hopefully they have since addressed this, and I wont have to worry about it in my 2016 Mustang.
This was a statement from both Ford and NHTSA spokesman, released after recent article sighting Ford steering failures as number one defect complaint two years running.
Ford spokesman:
“We are confident in our current methods for quickly identifying and
addressing potential vehicle issues,” the spokesperson added. “When the
data indicates a safety recall is needed, we move quickly on behalf of
our customers. The spokesperson said then that the company takes the
safety of its customers “very seriously.”
NHTSA spokesman:
A NHTSA spokesperson didn’t immediately respond but told ABC News upon
release of the initial list in June that the agency has a “good track
record” in identifying safety defects and issuing recalls.
For Ford owners who have actually experienced or been injured by EPAS failures. And have further experienced, first hand, the cold and hostile treatment Ford extends to consumers; sold faulty and dangerous automobiles. These statement bring home the real business model in which Ford has based its legacy. These statements from both Ford and the supposed safety oversight organization responsible to consumers, represent the real political and profitable cooperation between US business and government safety entities. The NHTSA will never do anything dramatic when US manufactures are concerned, the political and financial implications are simply to profound. It matters not that tens of millions of defective and hazardous EPAS units have been installed on vehicles around the globe since 2008. Ford's $200B market capital takes precedence over you, your family, or your defective, expensive problem sitting in your garage. These statements are truly despicable and disgraceful, in light of the sheer magnitude of reported EPAS failures, with millions of consumers abandoned, defrauded, and placed in danger of death or injury.
My EPAS steering failed this week, and I came here and to other sites discussing it, finding a lot of good information. I knew it would do no good to argue with the dealer/repairman. I called Ford and told them about the problem and they worked with me to reduce the repair price, Ford will pay part and I will pay part. Some of the information online says that the EPAS will give a warning on the dash, and then will be turned off the next time the car is started, and this was how mine went. I got an "service power steering" notice on the dash panel but the power assist continued to work until I stopped to get gas. Then I had only manual steering when I restarted the car. It did not turn off while driving.
It is hard to tell from online information, how many of the million+ cars sold with EPAS have had problems. It makes sense to me that they would not want to replace them all (recall) but that they would work with the few customers who have a failure, and that was my experience.
Ford sold you defective and hazardous product that should have been fully replaced under full recall, and then some. You were lucky EPAS did not fail in hazardous manner, like torque or lock steering at speed. I was injured by 2010 Flex when steering locked (Not reverted to manual!) in full right turn during travel. Must contest your comment about understanding Ford would not want to replace all EPAS units, only those "few" that experience fault; in fact, there have been millions of failures, not a 'few'. We are not talking about a tail light problem; automotive steering system represent most critical safety system on vehicle, even brakes are secondary to steering. You give Ford a lot of undeserved credit, please consider your wife and children driving at speed during EPAS failure. Eventually Ford EPAS system will cause serious injury and fatalities, I sincerely hope it is not your family. It certainly could have been mine, my kids were in back seat during crash; if vehicle crossed into traffic instead of hitting curb, we could have all been killed.
I fought Ford for months to get them to pay $700.00 of a $2000.00 EPAS replacement bill, it is only recently that Ford has eased up on this process. The cost of EPAS replacement to Ford is less than portion of repair paid by customer, so Ford is actually making money off customers sold defecting failed equipment. Do not be fooled into thinking your problems are over once EPAS is replaced; Ford has not addressed the real thermal issue causing unit failures, and never will. Ford will smile in your face as long as you remain docile and malleable; take Ford to court and you will learn what lying, deceitful scum Ford management really are.
Good Ol Ford won't stand behind it What do you do?
I have a 2011 F450, & randomly, my steering wheel loses power assist, but more alarmingly, the steering wheel will suddenly jerk in one direction, then another. Sometimes it would start turning the wheel left to right rapidly. This problem comes and goes. Very dangerous. When I take it to the dealer, it usually behaves well, so they just shrug.
TA-455-SD mine does the same thing now! PLEASE let me know what you find!
I have a 2008 Ford Escape
Classic sign of EPAS failure. EPAS system is a servo based control system comprising basically motor, two optical rotary position encoders, control computer, power and support electronics. Steering rack is driven via timing belt and pulleys. One optical encoder senses motor rotor angular position, and 2nd senses steering wheel angular position at input of EPAS assembly. When you turn wheel, wheel position optical encoder senses this rotation. Servo controller then drives motor to close feedback loop until 'zero' error is established between commanded position and actual rack position. Rack position is inferred through motor shaft rotary encoder feedback through timing belt and pulleys. So the entire system is basically a closed-loop dual feedback servo, with no redundant feedback mechanisms. This means any failure associated with optical encoders or data integrity will cause servo controller to actuate erroneously. So, your EPAS is most likely experiencing an internal component failure causing servo controller to sense movement in absence of steering command. This can come from various internal failure sources including encoders, motor drive, controller, or even simple loose wire. Most likely EPAS internal component has failed due to thermal overload over time, like millions of others in Ford vehicles. Situation is very dangerous, advise immediate intervention to protect you and your family. The EPAS system is one of Ford's legacy failures, you will get no help from Ford or the NHTSA on this one.