Ford Electric Power Steering Doesn’t Work: Common Causes

How to Fix Ford Electric Power Steering Doesn’t Work Issue

Unlike traditional hydraulic systems, EPS relies on an electric motor to provide steering assistance, improving fuel efficiency and reducing maintenance requirements. Ford has been having problems with its early-generation electronic power steering systems. The Ford Electric Power Steering Doesn’t Work issue can be caused by a fuse/ground issue or a faulty torque sensor. Ford has issued a service bulletin for some of the issues.

Common Causes of Ford EPS Failure

• Electrical Issues— Faulty wiring, poor connections, or a failing EPS motor can disrupt the system’s operation.
• Steering Angle Sensor Malfunction— The steering angle sensor provides critical data to the EPS system. If it’s faulty, the system may not function correctly.
• Control Module Failure— The EPS control module processes input from various sensors and controls the electric motor. A malfunctioning module can lead to system failure.
• Low Battery Voltage— A weak battery or alternator can cause the EPS system to shut down or operate intermittently.
• Software Glitches— Outdated or corrupted software can affect the EPS system’s performance.

Common Symptoms When The Ford Electric Power Steering Doesn’t Work

If your Ford’s electric power steering is not working, you might notice the following symptoms:

1) Heavy Steering: The steering wheel feels significantly harder to turn, especially at low speeds.
2) EPS Warning Light: The dashboard displays an EPS warning light or a message indicating a steering problem.
3) Intermittent Steering Assist: The steering assistance works sporadically, making it unpredictable.
4) Noisy Steering: Unusual noises, such as whining or grinding, occur when turning the steering wheel.
5) Steering Wheel Vibrations: The steering wheel vibrates excessively, even when driving on smooth roads.

Step 1 to diagnose Ford Electric Power Steering Doesn’t Work

Scan for trouble codes. You may find trouble code B2278 Steering Shaft Torque Sensor Malfunction. However, perform these tests first. Verify that you have good power and ground to the power steering control module (PSCM) The PSCM has two connectors on the steering column. One is a 6-terminal connector, the other is a 2-terminal connector.

Terminal #1 Yellow/Grey on connector C2231A should be battery voltage with the key in the on position. Terminal 1 (red) in C2231B should be battery voltage at all times. Terminal #2 in C2231B Black/Violet wire should be a good ground. If you don’t see those values, check the fuse and fusible link shown in the Ford electronic power steering wiring diagram above.

If you do see those values, clear the trouble code, and drive again. If the B2278 Steering Shaft Torque Sensor Malfunction code comes back, refer to the service bulletin.

©, 2020 Rick Muscoplat