Are there any recalls for power steering problems?
For that recall, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) investigated complaints that certain cars and SUVs suddenly lost power and became harder to control. An independent investigation by Ford concluded that 4 confirmed cases of power steering loss occurred.
How to troubleshoot hard power steering when a vehicle is cold?
If the techniques you try at home don’t work, take the vehicle to a professional mechanic to ensure that the vehicle will not seize up on the road. Let the car warm up for a couple of minutes before you drive. Power steering fluid becomes more viscous in very cold temperatures, and doesn’t flow as well as it normally would.
Why does my steering wheel feel like its stuck in quicksand?
If your steering wheel feels like it’s stuck in quicksand and it takes 5 times your normal strength to make a routine turn, chances are the power steering hydraulic assist is losing power. Don’t check the fluid level while your car is cold; run it for a few minutes first.
Why is my power steering squealing and grinding?
Like most unexpected noises, power steering squeals & grinding are – 99% of the time – related to the belt drive. What to do: give your power steering pump pulley a thorough inspection, or have a professional mechanic take a look.
Is the power steering stiff in cold weather?
When the car is cold, in cold weather (under 40 degrees) the power steering is stiff/doesnt work well at all. When the car warms up a few minutes it works fine. Is there any type of additive I can add to the fluid to help in this problem? (long term, I plan to replace the rack and pinion, but I can’t do it right now) Any suggestions?
What are the risks of a Ford power steering recall?
As a result, the vehicle could suffer a fuel leak – increasing the risk of a fire – or impaired brake function – leading the vehicle to suffer unexpected movement. Ford says it is unaware of any accidents, injuries or fires related to the issue.
Why is there a problem with my power steering?
The problem: This is caused by software and electrical issues. The power steering setup creates a “high-energy demand” in low-speed turns, according to NHTSA. This causes the vehicle’s overall system voltage to drop.
Why does my steering rack keep getting worn?
It is aluminum and gets worn where there are pressure seals rotating. When cold, fluid bypasses the pressure seals through the worn area (loss of power steering) until the rack warms up, aluminum expands and the seals can actually seal. The fix is, of course, replacing the rack.