Hey everyone! Has anyone here had an issue with their steering locking up and getting a ‘service power steering’ message on their 2006 Ford Escape Hybrid? I had to get mine towed to a Ford dealership, but they seem unsure about the cause. Any advice or experiences I could share with the mechanics would be a huge help!
I have the same model but with high mileage. My power steering motor failed, and my mechanic had to try a couple of replacements before finding one that worked. For me, it didn’t lock up but got very hard to steer at low speeds, like an old car without power steering. It’s an electric motor, not a typical one with fluid. If your steering has gotten harder, it might be the motor. Any specific code showing up?
@Pace
Not sure about a code since it’s at the dealership. Thanks for the info! Do you remember how much the motor cost?
Jai said:
@Pace
Not sure about a code since it’s at the dealership. Thanks for the info! Do you remember how much the motor cost?
It happened a few years ago, so I don’t have the receipts, but my mechanic found it online. The motor is part of the whole steering rack. I’ve seen listings around $800. Also, maybe have them check the power steering control module before replacing the whole rack—sometimes it’s that module acting up.
@Pace
Thanks so much! I’ll make sure they check those things.
I’ve seen a few cases with failed steering wheel position sensors, which set a code. It’s usually at the base of the column and is a fairly easy fix on older models.
Pax said:
I’ve seen a few cases with failed steering wheel position sensors, which set a code. It’s usually at the base of the column and is a fairly easy fix on older models.
Thanks, I’ll pass that info to the dealership!