SSM 48563 - 2017-2020 F-150 - No Crank/No Start, Multiple Illuminated Warning Indicators And/Or DTCs Some 2017-2020 F-150 vehicles may exhibit a no crank/no start, auto start stop inoperative, illuminated malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) and/or powertrain malfunction indicator lamp, transmission shift concerns, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) P061A, U0140, U0401, U0101, U0074 and/or U0037 being set in the powertrain control module (PCM), transmission control module (TCM), instrument panel cluster (IPC), front controls interface module (FCIM), anti-lock braking system (ABS) module and/or power steering control module (PSCM). This may be due to the 15525 transmission wire harness not being pro
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗2017 Ford F-150 steering problems
moderate 49 complaints filed with NHTSA · avg repair $700 · see steering across all vehicles →
Failure mileage
Complaints
49
Recalls
0
Avg fix
$700
1crash
What stands out
Owners have filed 49 steering complaints with NHTSA against this vehicle, but no formal recall covers the issue — the federal record reflects what manufacturers have admitted, not everything owners are reporting.
Is there a fix? Manufacturer service bulletins
The manufacturer has issued service bulletins covering steering on this vehicle — documented repair instructions, service campaigns, or warranty extensions sent to dealers. A TSB isn't a recall (it's not a free safety remedy), but it's the manufacturer acknowledging the issue and how to fix it.
Some 2017 F-150 vehicles equipped with a 3.5L EcoBoost engine may exhibit a rattle type noise from the engine compartment under various operating conditions. This noise may be due to excessive play the turbocharger wastegate linkage. To correct the condition, follow the Service Procedure to install the wastegate linkage spring kit.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Some 2016-2019 F-150 vehicles may exhibit DTC C0051 in the ABS module. This DTC compares steering angle between the power steering control module (PSCM) and ABS and may set due to towing, driving in heavy winds, loose suspension or steering gear components, alignment, or harness or connector concerns with the ABS or PSCM circuits. The ABS pinpoint tests AE, LA, or LB may direct a replacement of the PSCM after disconnecting/reconnecting PSCM connectors. Do not replace the PSCM using ABS Pinpoint tests AE, LA, LB. Refer to the Workshop Manual (WSM) Section, 211-02 to locate the correct PSCM pinpoint tests for the PSCM DTCs that are retrieved during the PSCM self-test. The ABS pinpoint tests ar
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗2013-2019 vehicles equipped with a LKS system with customer complaints of steering wheel vibration, steering pull or vehicle drift may be due to an alert and/or steering aid input from the LKS. The LKS system detects unintentional drifting toward the outside of the lane and alerts and/or aids vehicle to stay in the lane. Be sure the customer understands how the lane departure warning feature settings work for Alert (steering wheel vibration) and Aid (steering input toward lane center). Further information on the LKS can be found in the owners manual. If the customers concern is due to the LKS functioning as intended, do not attempt to repair.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Some 2016-2018 F-150 vehicles may exhibit a steering drift, pull, and/or wander. To diagnose these conditions refer to Pinpoint Test (PPT) H - Steering System Pull, Drift, Wander or Steering Wheel is Off Center in Workshop Manual (WSM) Section, 211-00. Do not use PPT I - Poor Returnability Sticky Steering or Binding to diagnose drift, pull, and/or wander symptoms. These Pinpoint Tests are in the process of being updated.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Source: NHTSA manufacturer communications. Bring the bulletin number to your dealer or shop.
The failure pattern owners describe
Owners describe a broad spectrum of steering failures in 2017 F-150s. The most common complaint is loss of power steering assist—the wheel becomes stiff and difficult to turn—often with no warning light, sometimes accompanied by a "Steering Assist Fault" message. Multiple owners report this occurs after highway driving or triggered by the auto start-stop feature, where steering remains inoperable for up to 10 seconds after engine restart. That delay has caused near-accidents during intersection turns.
Several owners report violent "death wobble"—violent front-end shaking at highway speeds, especially after hitting bumps or road transitions—that stops only when slowing below 50 MPH. Others describe erratic steering where the wheel jerks, fights input, or moves itself up to 90 degrees, sometimes locking entirely during turns. Steering racks and gears have failed mechanically even at low mileage, requiring expensive replacement.
A cluster of owners cite cascading electrical faults—multiple warning messages (ABS, traction control, hill assist, lane keep) alongside steering loss—suggesting internal module communication breakdown. One owner identified melted wires near the turbo as the cause. Dealers have struggled to diagnose intermittent failures and, in some cases, declined to service vehicles without reproducible symptoms. Multiple repeat failures after dealer repairs underscore the systemic nature of the problem.
Same Ford F-150 steering reports on nearby years: 2014 · 2015 · 2018 · 2019
Failure modes owners describe
Loss of Power Steering Assist (Electrical/Module Failure)
Power steering assist fails or becomes intermittent during normal driving. Steering wheel becomes stiff and hard to turn, sometimes requiring significant manual effort. Occurs at highway and city speeds. Some instances show no dashboard warning; others display 'Steering Assist Fault' or related messages. Multiple owners report the steering assist system does not return immediately after the auto start-stop feature restarts the engine, creating dangerous delays when immediate steering input is needed.
When: Highway and city speeds; can occur after 5-6 hours of highway driving, or intermittently at low or high mileage (ranging from under 1,000 miles to 180,000+ miles); related to auto start-stop events and thermal cycling
Symptoms owners cite: Steering wheel becomes stiff and hard to turn; Loss of power steering assist feedback; Steering wheel does not return to center easily; Steering assist reengages slowly after engine restart from auto start-stop; No dashboard warning or illuminated dashboard symbols on some occurrences; 'Steering Assist Fault' warning message displayed; Loss of ability to steer vehicle in intersection or during traffic maneuvers
Codes mentioned: U1012-00, U0212-00, U0121-00, P062C-00, C40182, C12100, C41582, C42082, C15100, C21200, C42982, C10200
Repairs/costs cited: Dealers diagnosed need for electric steering wheel rack replacement, steering gear replacement, power steering electronic module replacement, entire steering column replacement. Some repairs completed; others not due to parts unavailability or owner expense. Independent mechanic diagnosed power steering control module or rack and pinion failure. Owners report multiple repeat failures after dealer repairs.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: TSB issued for IWE system fault affecting steering; TSB did not resolve the issue. Ford Customer Satisfaction Program 24S45 mentioned by one owner. Manufacturer advised filing NHTSA complaint rather than providing direct remedy. Dealers reported inability to reproduce or diagnose intermittent failures in some cases.
Steering Wheel Locking or Binding in Turns
Steering wheel locks in place, becomes bound, or resists turning smoothly during road curves and intersections. After a turn, steering wheel does not return to center position smoothly or at all. Described as 'notchy' and extremely hard movement. Occurs both during dynamic steering input and as a static condition after parking.
When: While navigating curves and intersections, especially during left turns at traffic lights; mileage varies from under 10,000 to 93,926 miles
Symptoms owners cite: Steering wheel locks or freezes in a turned position; Steering becomes notchy and grinding-like; Steering wheel will not return to center after a turn; Difficult and jerky steering input required to turn the wheel; Steering column feels bound or stuck; Metal-on-metal grinding sensations in steering
Codes mentioned: Electronic Power Steering Assist Codes (unspecified)
Repairs/costs cited: Steering gear replacement, steering column replacement, and steering rack replacement performed at dealerships. One owner reports two steering rack replacements at 27,000 miles total (at 4-20-21 and 3-22-22) with only temporary relief.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: None stated. Owners note widespread online complaints for 2013–2019 F-150 models suggesting known issue.
Front-End 'Death Wobble' (Violent Steering Wheel Shake)
Front wheels and steering wheel shake violently at highway speeds, particularly after hitting bumps, transitions, or rough pavement (e.g., overpass bridges). Condition is historically known as 'death wobble.' Stops only when vehicle slows to below 50 MPH. Can occur randomly after initially being triggered.
When: Highway speeds (55–70 MPH), triggered by bumps or transitions in road surface; mileage as low as 8,000–10,000 miles
Symptoms owners cite: Violent shaking of steering wheel and front suspension; Shaking occurs at highway speeds; Triggered by bumps, overpass transitions, or rough pavement; Shaking ceases when speed drops below 50 MPH; Can recur randomly at higher speeds even after initial trigger
Repairs/costs cited: Tire rotation and inspection performed with no visible issues found. No repairs completed. One owner notes problem persists after dealership service.
Erratic Steering Self-Movement and Loss of Control
Steering wheel moves or turns itself without driver input, sometimes dramatically. Wheel jerks or fights driver input. In one case, steering wheel forcefully turned itself left and right erratically up to 90 degrees. Related to potential IWE (Integrated Wheel End) system faults causing random 4x4 engagement and loss of steering controllability. Owners report near-crashes and loss of lane control.
When: While driving at highway speeds or on mountain/logging roads; can occur suddenly and intermittently
Symptoms owners cite: Steering wheel jerks or moves without driver input; Steering wheel fights driver correction attempts; Erratic 90-degree steering wheel movements; Loss of steering control during curves; Steering wheel moves to the left without warning; Vehicle drifts left and right unpredictably; Jerking and swerving motion of the truck
Repairs/costs cited: TSB issued for IWE system; no effective repairs documented. One owner performed battery disconnection and ABS controller cleaning which temporarily cleared most error messages except 'Steering Assist Fault.'
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: TSB available for IWE system fault, but owners report the TSB does not resolve the underlying issue. One owner noted the extended warranty expired at 28,000 miles.
Steering Stiffness and Heaviness After Extended Driving
Steering wheel becomes heavy and stiff after 80–150 miles of continuous driving or after 5–6 hours at highway speed. Condition may resolve after vehicle rests for several hours. Owners describe minor steering inputs resulting in major directional changes as the stiffness makes the truck difficult to control.
When: After 80–150 miles of steady driving or 5–6 hours at highway speeds; thermal cycling related; symptom improves after rest period
Symptoms owners cite: Heavy and stiff steering feel; Reduced steering responsiveness; Minor steering input causes major directional changes; Unpredictable steering behavior; Difficulty maintaining lane position; Steering difficulty subsides after vehicle cools
Repairs/costs cited: Ford dealer inspection could not duplicate or identify problem. No repairs documented.
Auto Start-Stop Power Steering Delay
When the auto start-stop feature restarts the engine while the vehicle is stopped (at traffic lights, stop signs, or during turns), the electric power steering does not immediately re-engage. Steering remains stiff or inoperable for up to 10 seconds, creating a dangerous condition when the driver immediately needs to maneuver. Multiple owners report near-accidents as a result, especially during left turns across traffic.
When: Upon engine restart after auto start-stop shutdown; particularly during traffic stops and when immediate steering input is required
Symptoms owners cite: Steering wheel becomes locked or immobile when engine restarts; Power steering assist does not return for up to 10 seconds; Steering wheel struggles to move or move intermittently for several seconds; Condition repeatable and consistent; Steering becomes available again after delay
Repairs/costs cited: Ford dealer advised one owner this is 'functioning as designed.' No corrective measures identified or offered. Owner reports manually disabling auto start-stop as workaround.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Dealer stated the condition is functioning as designed. No recalls or TSBs documented for this specific issue in the narratives.
Steering Assist Loss with Multiple Module Faults (Cascade Electrical Failure)
Complete loss of steering assist accompanied by cascading fault messages affecting ABS, traction control, hill assist, lane keeping, terrain management, and other electronic systems. Owners suspect communication failures between modules, possibly related to battery condition, grounding issues, or internal module faults (clockspring, ABS controller, wheel speed sensors). Occurs after weather changes (rain) or stressful electrical demands (snow/ice driving).
When: After weather changes (rain), during heavy electrical demands (4x4 engagement in snow), or related to extended driving; mileage from under 1,000 to 61,000 miles
Symptoms owners cite: Complete loss of power steering assist; Multiple warning messages: 'Service Advance Trac,' 'Check 4x4,' 'Hill Assist Not Available,' 'ABS,' 'Steering Assist Fault'; ABS controller making groaning noises; No communication between modules; Intermittent power steering assist returning after electrical repairs
Codes mentioned: U1012-00, U0212-00, U0121-00, P062C-00, C40182, C12100, C41582, C42082, C15100, C21200, C42982, C10200
Repairs/costs cited: Clockspring replacement (OEM from Sunrise Ford), battery replacement, ABS controller connection cleaning with electrical contact cleaner, grounding point inspection and cleaning, potential wheel speed sensor or front hub diagnostics required. Extended warranty had expired.
Steering Rack and Pinion Mechanical Failure
Steering gear or rack and pinion assembly fails mechanically, causing complete or partial loss of steering function. Steering becomes extremely stiff or inoperable. Diagnosed at dealerships as rack and pinion or steering gear failure.
When: Mileage ranges from 4,000 to 97,215 miles; one case at 61,000 miles where repair part was unavailable
Symptoms owners cite: Steering wheel becomes abnormally stiff; Difficulty maneuvering the vehicle; Complete loss of steering function; No warning lights in some cases
Codes mentioned: Electronic Power Steering Assist Codes
Repairs/costs cited: Steering gear replacement, entire steering column replacement, and steering rack replacement. Parts unavailable on some occasions delaying repair. Multiple replacements in one case (two racks at 27,000 miles total) suggest recurring failure.
Wiring Damage Near Engine Exhaust/Turbo (Melted Wire Harness)
Power steering wire harness positioned too close to engine exhaust manifold or turbo. Wires melt due to heat exposure, causing loss of power steering, cruise control, and false overheat warnings. Tin foil heat shielding was insufficient.
When: Occurs during highway driving; happens while vehicle is in use
Symptoms owners cite: Loss of power steering while driving; Loss of cruise control; False overheat warning thrown; Vehicle becomes difficult to steer
Repairs/costs cited: None documented; manufacturer gave 'run around' when contacted.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Manufacturer contacted but provided no remedy or acknowledgment of design defect.
Steering System Electrical/Module Communication Faults (IWE System Engagement)
Integrated Wheel End (IWE) system malfunction causes random 4x4 engagement, which in turn causes severe steering issues. Grinding noises, steering wheel locking, and loss of steering control reported. Owners identify this as a known widespread issue covered by TSB but claim the TSB does not resolve the problem.
When: Random occurrence during driving; can happen on highway, mountain roads, or while navigating curves
Symptoms owners cite: Metal-on-metal grinding noise from steering; Steering wheel locks in place erratically; Loss of steering control; Vehicle has major steering issues when 4x4 engages randomly; Multiple near-crash events
Repairs/costs cited: TSB issued but does not resolve issue. Owner commentary suggests entire IWE system replacement may be necessary.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: TSB issued for IWE system fault; owners state TSB ineffective.
Driver Alert/Lane Keep Assist System Failure
Driver Alert System and Lane Keep Assist fail to maintain vehicle position within lane or warn of lane departure. System was equipped by manufacturer but does not function properly.
When: During normal driving; failure noted at approximately 25,000 miles
Symptoms owners cite: Vehicle drifts across lane markings; No warning issued when vehicle begins to veer into another lane; Lane Keep Assist does not correct course
Repairs/costs cited: Dealer could not diagnose or repair; failure recurred.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Manufacturer confirmed vehicle was not included in any recalls related to the failure.
Lower Control Arm Mounting Bolt Shear (Mechanical Suspension Failure)
Mounting bolt for lower control arm at driver's front wheel sheared off, causing frame mounting to tear away completely. Wheel went out of axis, resulting in loss of steering control.
When: One case reported; mileage and exact timing not specified
Symptoms owners cite: Loss of steering control; Wheel out of alignment/axis; Potential for catastrophic failure
Repairs/costs cited: Not specified.
Steering Gear Defector Part Wear (Part #8327)
Ford part number 8327 (deflector) tore and began rubbing against power steering and transmission coolant hoses. Occurs early in vehicle life.
When: At 19,127 miles
Symptoms owners cite: Deflector torn and rubbing against hoses; Potential for coolant leak or hose damage
Repairs/costs cited: Not covered by warranty per Ford.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Ford declined warranty coverage for the defective part.
Synthesized from 49 NHTSA owner complaints — unverified consumer allegations, summarized for patterns. The verbatim filings appear below.
What owners are reporting 0 most recent
Had steering trouble with your 2017 Ford F-150?
File a complaint with NHTSA → It's free, official, and how every report above got here — owner filings are the federal safety record this page is built on.
Common questions
How serious is the steering problem on the 2017 Ford F-150?
It's a documented issue but not catastrophic. 49 complaints have been filed. Repairs average $700 and most owners catch it before it causes a breakdown.
At what mileage does the steering typically fail?
Across the 27 complaints that reported odometer mileage, most steering failures cluster between 13,000 and 43,000 miles, with the median around 27,000. A quarter of owners report trouble before 13,000; a quarter make it past 43,000. Maintenance history matters more than the odometer alone — this is the reported failure window, not a guarantee.
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.
Related
Complaint and recall data sourced from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)
public records database. Verify the raw federal record at
nhtsa.gov/vehicle/2017/Ford/F-150.
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. Some links on this page are affiliate links.