Automakers strive to catch all issues before their vehicles leave the production line. Sadly, this is not always the case, and they don’t become apparent until after they’re already sold. This is the case with Fords steering system, which has so far had a few issues.
How many recalls has Ford announced for steering issues?
There are four in total, including:
- A reduction of steering control
- A loss of power steering assistance
- Detachment of the steering wheel
- Detachment of the steering gear motor
Throughout this article, we’ll take a look at each one of the four recalls issued by Ford for steering problems. You’ll be able to follow steps to have a qualified professional make repairs to your vehicle if it’s affected by the recall. That way, you’ll have more safety and peace of mind.
Reduced Steering Control
NHTSA Recall ID: 13V232000
Proper steering control is vital for safe and effective operation of a vehicle. Drivers need to have control of the vehicle at all times, and that includes being able to steer the vehicle as needed.
An improperly fitted connecting clip in the steering system could cause a sudden loss of steering ability and reduced control of the vehicle. This could greatly increase the chances of a crash and result in harm to the driver and passengers.
Dealers will replace or repair the clip to correct the problem.
Loss of Power Steering Assist from Salt Corrosion
NHTSA Recall ID: 15V250000
Power steering makes it much easier to pilot a vehicle and is nearly essential at low speeds when it’s used the most. When a driver has power steering assist, they have much better control over the vehicle and a higher level of safety.
Salt corrosion on vehicles in areas of the country that experience severe winter weather can render the power steering assist inoperable. This can happen suddenly and without warning, which can lead to a loss of control for the driver and serious injury due to a crash.
Dealers will repair or replace the damaged components and treat the area to correct the issue and stop a recurrence.
Steering Gear Motor May Detach
NHTSA Recall ID: 19V632000
The steering gear motor is designed to ensure that a vehicle can be steered safely by the driver. As one of the components of the steering system, it’s needed to reduce the risk of a crash and help to protect the occupants of the vehicle.
Sudden detachment of the steering gear motor due to a faulty connection can lead to an unexpected inability to steer or control the vehicle. That lack of control can result in a crash, along with harm to the driver and passengers.
Dealers will repair or replace the steering gear motor and connectors to correct the problem.
Steering Wheel May Detach
NHTSA Recall ID: 18V167000
Being able to steer is a vital part of driving safely, and the steering wheel is a required component of this system. Drivers who are able to steer safely and easily reduce their risk of a crash and help protect themselves and their passengers by easily piloting their car where they need to travel.
Some Ford vehicles have a bolt in the steering column that’s too short to properly hold the steering wheel in place. Over time, that bolt can come loose and the steering wheel can suddenly detach. This can occur while driving, which can significantly increase the chances of a crash.
Dealers will replace the bolt with a longer one to correct the issue.
How to Process a Ford Steering Recall
You might not be sure about a steering recall on your Ford vehicle, but you can visit the NHTSA website and put your vehicle’s VIN into the search box. You’re also able to search by year, make, and model, so you can see if your Ford vehicle has a steering recall.
If you have a recall listed for your specific vehicle, your next step will be to call Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. You can get information about the next steps for your recall process and find out where you need to take your vehicle to have the proper repairs made.
