While driving, the power steering warning light illuminated and steering assist was lost. The steering became extremely hard, especially at low speeds. The vehicle makes grinding/whining noises when turning, and the car vibrates while in Drive. This creates a serious safety concern, especially during turns and parking maneuvers. Issue appears to be electric power steering (EPAS) failure.
2013 ford Flex steering problems
severe 149 complaints filed with NHTSA · avg repair $700
Complaints
149
Recalls
0
Crashes
7
Avg fix
$700
What owners are reporting 3 most recent
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2013 FORD FLEX. AFTER STARTING THE VEHICLE, THE STEERING WHEEL WAS VERY DIFFICULT TO TURN. MOMENTS LATER, WHILE DRIVING, THE "CHECK CHARGING" INDICATOR ILLUMINATED. THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE, BUT NO ASSISTANCE WAS OFFERED. THE LOCAL DEALER WAS NOT NOTIFIED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 10…
WHILE DRIVING I LOST ALL POWER STEERING AND ALMOST LOST CONTROL, THANKFULLY IT DIDN'T HAPPEN WHILE MY WIFE WAS DRIVING WITH THE KIDS. I WAS ABLE TO PULL OFF THE ROAD AND SHUT THE VEHICLE OFF. I RESTARTED AND THE POWER STEERING WAS RESTORED. THIS OCCURED SEVERAL TIMES OVER THE NEXT FEW DAYS UNTIL THE POWER STEERING JUST STOPPED WORKING ALL TOGETHER. I CHECKED FOR RECALLS AND FOUND THAT THERE WAS A …
Common questions
How serious is the steering problem on the 2013 ford Flex?
It's a meaningful issue. 149 complaints have been filed and the failure mode causes operational problems for owners. Repairs average $700.
At what mileage does the steering typically fail?
Mileage data is limited for this issue. Owners report failures across a wide range, suggesting cause is more about driving conditions and maintenance than mileage alone.
What does it cost to fix?
Independent shops typically charge around $700 for steering repairs on this vehicle. Dealer pricing tends to run 20-40% higher. The exact figure depends on the specific failure mode, parts availability, and your local labor rates. If you're outside factory warranty, an extended service contract often covers this category.
Are there any recalls related to steering?
No active recalls currently cover steering issues on this vehicle. The complaints filed represent owner-reported failures that haven't risen to the level of a manufacturer-issued recall — but they're still worth knowing about before you buy or budget for repairs.
Other problem areas on this vehicle
Complaint and recall data sourced from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)
public records database. Severity ratings are derived from reported crashes, fires, injuries, and fatalities.
Repair cost estimates are independent-shop national averages and may differ in your area.
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