2009 Ford Escape steering problems

Electronic power steering system loses assist intermittently or completely, typically due to a faulty torque sensor in the steering column. System can fail at startup, requiring multiple restarts to regain steering function, or fail unexpectedly during driving. Steering wheel becomes difficult or impossible to turn manually when power assist is lost.

When: Reported from approximately 2013 onward; many failures occur months to years after the 2014–2015 recall service. Mileage typically 40,000–140,000 miles, but has occurred as early as 4,000 miles on replacement parts.

Symptoms owners cite: Sudden loss of power steering assist with no warning; Steering wheel locks up or becomes extremely stiff; Steering wheel pulsates or vibrates while parked or driving; Warning light: 'Power Steering Assist Fault' or 'Power Steering Assist Failure'; Jerking or sticking sensation in steering wheel; Power steering fails intermittently at startup; restarts restore function; Loss of steering control particularly noticeable at low speeds and when turning

Codes mentioned: B2278, B1342, DTC code indicating torque sensor or steering module fault

Repairs/costs cited: Dealers report replacement of steering column assembly or torque sensor at $895–$2,319. Some owners report independent repairs via reprogramming ($100) as temporary fix. Many dealers refuse to replace parts under recall because the vehicle had prior recall service (software update only) and no codes were present at that time.

Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Recall 14S05 (NHTSA Campaign 14V284000), issued mid-2014, performed software reprogramming of PSCM when no trouble codes found. Ford closed recall after this service, refusing subsequent warranty coverage for the same failure. No second recall issued despite hundreds of complaints of failures after recall completion. Some Ford customer service representatives acknowledge the issue is known but claim warranty is exhausted. A few owners report Ford corporate acknowledging the recall did not fully resolve the problem but declining to reopen coverage.

Owners who had recall 14S05 performed (software update only, no parts replaced) experienced steering failures months or years later. Dealers then deny warranty coverage because the recall is marked closed, even though the underlying defect—the faulty torque sensor—was never physically replaced. The software update is intended only to provide warning when failure occurs, not to prevent failure.

When: Recall performed mid-2014 to mid-2015; failures reported 2015–2021+

Symptoms owners cite: Steering failure after prior recall service indicated 'repair complete'; No warning indicator light or chime despite recall promise to warn of failure; Same failure code (B1342, B2278) appears after recall work

Codes mentioned: B2278, B1342

Repairs/costs cited: Subsequent repair requires steering column or torque sensor replacement: $895–$2,319. Owners bear full cost because dealers claim recall obligation satisfied by prior software update.

Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Recall 14S05 closure policy: Ford considers the recall 'satisfied' when software reprogramming is performed, regardless of whether hardware replacement is needed or whether the software update was effective. Ford has denied multiple goodwill claims and reimbursement requests. Ford customer service told several owners that had they not come in for the recall update, they would be eligible for parts replacement under the original recall. No expanded or second recall issued.

Steering wheel becomes completely rigid and unresponsive while vehicle is in motion, particularly during turns. Owners must pull over and restart vehicle to regain control. Occurs at various speeds, including highway speeds (45–70 mph), creating immediate crash risk.

When: Reported across all years; timing variable from early ownership to 10+ years

Symptoms owners cite: Sudden complete steering lock during turns or while driving straight; Steering wheel extremely difficult to turn mid-maneuver; Loss of steering assistance without warning; Momentary jerking or hesitation before full lock; Vehicle nearly strikes other vehicles, curbs, or leaves roadway

Codes mentioned: B2278, B1342

Repairs/costs cited: Steering column replacement quoted $895–$2,300+. Some owners used temporary restart method to restore function.

Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Recall 14S05 software update; subsequent failures not covered if prior recall service completed.

Lower control arm separates from the front subframe/k-frame cradle due to frame corrosion. Vehicle experiences sudden loss of steering control, wheel lock-up from tire contacting fender, and loss of transmission engagement. Similar to prior recall on 2001–2004 Escapes, but occurring on 2008–2012 models not included in that recall.

When: Reported on vehicles with 70,000+ miles in corrosion-prone areas; failure is sudden with no prior warning

Symptoms owners cite: Sudden loss of vehicle control and steering; Front wheel separates or binds against vehicle body; Loss of transmission engagement (CV shaft separation); Loud clunking noise at moment of failure; Tire lock-up and vehicle instability

Repairs/costs cited: Major subframe/cradle repair required. Owners report difficulty obtaining rust-free replacement parts; corrosion noted on multiple salvage cradles.

Recalls/TSBs owners mention: No recall issued for 2008–2012 models despite identical failure mode to prior 2001–2004 recall. Ford has not acknowledged the extended scope of the corrosion issue.

Steering wheel becomes stiff and requires excessive force to turn, making parking and low-speed maneuvering difficult or impossible. May occur on startup or intermittently during driving. Some owners report steering is normal for a period, then becomes stiff again.

When: Reported starting 2013–2014; can persist or recur for months

Symptoms owners cite: Steering wheel extremely stiff and hard to turn; Excessive force required, especially when stationary; Intermittent stiffness that clears after restart; Gradual worsening over time; Difficulty with sharp turns and parking maneuvers

Codes mentioned: B2278, B1342

Repairs/costs cited: Alternator replacement, PSCM reprogramming, or full steering column replacement attempted with varying success. Some repairs ($1,200–$1,800) fail to resolve issue.

Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Recall 14S05 software update; dealers may also suggest alternator replacement if battery voltage implicated.