Some 2020-2022 Escape/Corsair, 2021-2022 Bronco Sport, and 2022 Maverick vehicles built on or before 23-Mar-2022 may exhibit a hard, stiff, and/or difficult to turn condition due to a lack of power steering assist during engine start-up with U3000 diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) stored in the PSCM. Using the latest version of Ford Diagnosis and Repair System (FDRS) tool, select and run the PSCM - Reset the Power Steering Control Module (PSCM) application. After PSCM reset, perform an ignition cycle. Update the PSCM to the latest software level using FDRS tool. If the U3000 DTC returns, continue with diagnostics and repair direction using Workshop Manual (WSM), Section 211-02 > Power Steering
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗2020 Ford Escape steering problems
severe Owners of the 2020 Ford Escape have filed 18 NHTSA complaints about the steering at roughly $700 to repair (U.S. federal records, as of August 2026). Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation. See steering across all vehicles →
Complaints
18
Recalls
0
Avg fix
$700
| Model year | steering complaints |
|---|---|
| 2016 Escape | 71 |
| 2017 Escape | 48 |
| 2018 Escape | 30 |
| 2019 Escape | 16 |
| 2020 Escape (this page) | 18 |
| 2021 Escape | 4 |
| 2022 Escape | 4 |
2crashes
When does it fail?
Of the 18 steering complaints filed for the 2020 Ford Escape, here's the actual mileage breakdown — failures cluster heaviest at 0-25,000 mi.
0-25k
25-50k
50-75k
75-100k
100-125k
125-150k
150k+
Each bar shows the share of total complaints filed at that mileage range. Peak failure window highlighted. Some owners report problems earlier; some make it well past 150,000 miles symptom-free. Maintenance habits and driving conditions shift the curve as much as mileage alone.
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 2020-2022 Escape/Corsair, 2021-2022 Bronco Sport, and 2022 Maverick vehicles may exhibit a hard, stiff, and/or difficult to turn condition due to a lack of power steering assist during engine start-up with various U3000 diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and/or U3000:66. To correct this condition, using the latest version of Ford Diagnosis and Repair System (FDRS) tool, select and run the PSCM - Reset the Power Steering Control Module (PSCM) application. After PSCM reset, perform an ignition cycle. Update the PSCM to the latest software level using (FDRS) tool. If DTCs U3000 returns, continue with diagnostics and repair direction using Workshop Manual (WSM), Section 211-02 > Power Steering
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Some 2020-2021 Escape vehicles may exhibit a loss of voltage reference (VREF) or runs rough, blow fuse 44 and may or may not set DTC's P06A7,P0840,P0842,P0845,P0847,P2122,P2127,P0522,P008A,P06A6,P2196,P0192, P0212,P0340,P0344,P0365,P0532,P06E9,P0369,C175E,C175B,C2302,P0369. The 14290 harness directly above the steering shaft u-joint near the upper brake pedal mount may come in contact with the steering shaft. Rotation of the steering wheel will trigger the short circuit. Inspect the harness for damage at that location and repair as necessary. If damage was found, move the harness away from the steering shaft U-joint area and secure the harness. Refer to Wiring Diagram Cell 005.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Some 2020-2021 Escapes/Corsair vehicles may exhibit an illuminated stability-traction control indicator lamp with diagnostic trouble code (DTC) C1B00:62 in the power steering control module (PSCM) and DTC C0051:67 in the anti-lock brake system (ABS) module. This may be due to a misalignment between the steering column shaft and the steering wheel. To resolve the condition, follow the Service Procedure to properly align the steering column shaft and steering wheel.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Some 2020-2021 Escape/Corsair, 2021 Bronco Sport vehicles may exhibit a lack of power steering assist with DTC U3000 in the PSCM. This DTC is set when a battery charger is installed on the vehicle and the ignition is cycled ON. For vehicles that set this DTC due to the use of a battery charger, the DTC can be cleared and power steering assist restored without replacement of the PSCM. Using the FDRS, select and run the PSCM - Reset the Power Steering Control Module (PSCM) application. Once cleared, cycle the ignition. Reprogram the PSCM using the latest version of FDRS. It is not recommended that a battery charger be installed and running on the vehicle when the ignition is cycled. For claimi
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Source: NHTSA manufacturer communications. Bring the bulletin number to your dealer or shop.
The failure pattern owners describe
Steering and drivetrain failures dominate these 16 complaints. The most common issue is AWD module failure, typically around 50,000–55,000 miles but occurring as early as under 30,000 miles. When the module fails, it disables AWD, triggers multiple warning lights (Hill Start Not Available, Pre Collision Assist Not Available, Traction Control warnings), and leaves vehicles front-wheel-drive only—dangerous in winter conditions. One owner notes a Ford Service Bulletin (CSB21B19, April 2021) exists, but dealers report many affected Escapes have VINs not covered by it.
Power steering failures are equally serious. Several owners experienced sudden loss of power steering assist at low mileage (16,900–50,000 miles), with one reporting complete steering lockup mid-drive. Another describes a collision at 30 mph after losing both steering and brakes, with airbag deployment failure. One owner's vehicle locks the steering wheel every time they try to refuel.
Additional steering complaints include Lane Keep Assist activating abruptly on freeway travel, a steering wheel vibration issue specific to the 1.5L engine during acceleration, and unexplained steering pulls when passing turn lanes. Door spot weld failures at 50,000 miles have also caused power window damage. Owners express frustration that dealers acknowledge the prevalence of these failures but provide little relief.
Same Ford Escape steering reports on nearby years: 2017 · 2018 · 2019
Failure modes owners describe
AWD Module Failure
AWD module stops functioning or fails, disabling all-wheel drive capability. Multiple subsystems trigger warning lights, including Hill Start Not Available, Pre Collision Assist Not Available, and Traction Control warnings. This leaves the vehicle in front-wheel drive only, creating unsafe conditions in winter/snowy driving.
When: Commonly reported around 50,000-55,000 miles; some cases under 30,000 miles; one case at 29,000 miles
Symptoms owners cite: AWD system stops working; Warning lights: 'AWD module faulty, driver assist not available'; Loss of traction control; Hill Start Not Available warning; Pre Collision Assist Not Available warning; Vehicle loses control on bumps; Cracking sound underneath vehicle
Codes mentioned: AWD Fault Service Required
Repairs/costs cited: Dealer replacement of AWD module required; one narrative mentions PTU actuator motor replacement also needed
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Ford Service Bulletin CSB21B19 (April 2021) exists but does not cover all affected VINs; dealers report MANY Escapes coming in with this issue; owner states Ford has discontinued the vehicle model
Electronic Power Steering Control Module Failure
Electronic power steering control module fails, causing complete loss of power steering assist or severe difficulty steering. Steering wheel becomes stiff or unresponsive, making vehicle difficult to control and posing serious safety risk.
When: Reported at 16,900 miles and 50,000 miles
Symptoms owners cite: Steering wheel difficult or impossible to turn; Steering wheel seizes; Loss of power steering assist; Difficulty controlling vehicle direction; Vehicle becomes difficult to maneuver
Codes mentioned: ABS warning, Traction Control warning
Repairs/costs cited: Steering column replacement; electronic power steering control module replacement
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Manufacturer notified; no assistance offered in at least one case
Power Steering Loss (PSCM)
Power steering control module (PSCM) suddenly loses function while driving, causing immediate loss of power assist. Owner reports no warning light before failure, creating sudden uncontrolled steering situation.
When: Occurred while pulling into driveway; no mileage stated
Symptoms owners cite: Sudden loss of power steering; No warning light before failure; Steering becomes difficult
Repairs/costs cited: Dealer replaced steering column; bumper and minor fender damage incurred but dealer denied repair coverage
Lane Keep Assist Malfunction
Lane Keep Assist system functions incorrectly, steering vehicle abruptly onto shoulder when vehicle is correctly in lane. System engages without driver command and overrides steering inputs.
When: While cruising on freeway at 75 mph
Symptoms owners cite: Lane Keep Assist activates when not needed; Abrupt steering toward shoulder; System overrides driver steering input
Steering Wheel Vibration (1.5L Engine)
1.5L engine vehicles experience vibration in steering wheel during normal acceleration, similar to a flat tire. 2.0L engine with same transmission does not exhibit this problem, suggesting engine-specific or engine-mount related issue.
When: During normal driving mode acceleration
Symptoms owners cite: Vibration in steering wheel; Occurs during acceleration; Feels similar to flat tire vibration
Steering Wheel Lock and No-Start Condition
Steering wheel locks and vehicle will not start when owner attempts to refuel. Condition occurs every time owner tries to fill fuel tank.
When: Upon attempting to refuel
Symptoms owners cite: Steering wheel locks; Vehicle will not start; Occurs every time at gas station
Steering Pull and Lane Deviation
Vehicle jerks or pulls sharply to one side when approaching turn lanes at any speed, nearly causing loss of steering control. Occurs consistently whenever passing a turn lane.
When: Any time vehicle passes a turn lane
Symptoms owners cite: Vehicle jerks to side; Steering wheel nearly pulled from hands; Occurs at any speed
Power Steering Delay and Failure After Cold Start
After depressing ignition button to start vehicle, power steering does not engage or responds with significant delay before functioning.
When: After vehicle cold start
Symptoms owners cite: Delayed start after ignition button press; Power steering does not work immediately after start
Brake Magnet Metal Debris Accumulation
Metal debris accumulates on rear brake magnet, causing steering difficulty and multiple warning lights. Debris removal was required.
When: At approximately 19,185 miles
Symptoms owners cite: Difficult steering in intended direction; Multiple unknown warning lights; Metal debris on rear brake magnet
Repairs/costs cited: Debris removed from rear brake magnet
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Manufacturer made aware and case filed
Complete Brake Failure with Steering Loss
Owner lost steering ability and brakes failed simultaneously while driving at highway speed, resulting in collision with another vehicle. Only shin airbag deployed; other airbags did not function.
When: During highway driving at approximately 30+ mph
Symptoms owners cite: Loss of steering ability; Complete brake failure; Vehicle uncontrollable; Airbag deployment failure (only shin airbag deployed)
Interior Door Spot Weld Failure
Spot welds on interior door check arm assembly fail prematurely, causing door damage and affecting power window motor and other components. Poorly executed welds attributed to manufacturing defect.
When: At 50,000 miles under normal use conditions
Symptoms owners cite: Spot welds break off; Interior door damage; Power window motor damage; Damage to other components
Repairs/costs cited: Ford requires replacement of entire door
Synthesized from 18 NHTSA owner complaints — unverified consumer allegations, summarized for patterns. The verbatim filings appear below.
What owners are reporting 1 most recent
The contact owns a 2020 Ford Escape. The contact stated that while operating the vehicle the ABS and Traction Control warning messages had been displayed and the power steering had failed causing the steering wheel to become difficult to turn in each direction. The vehicle was taken to the local mechanic who diagnosed that the steering column was faulty. The vehicle was not yet repaired. The…
Had steering trouble with your 2020 Ford Escape?
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 2020 Ford Escape?
It's a meaningful issue. 18 complaints have been filed and the failure mode causes operational problems for owners. Repairs average $700.
At what mileage does the steering typically fail?
Based on the 18 complaints filed, steering issues most often appear around 16,198 miles. Some report problems earlier; some make it well past 150,000 with no symptoms. Maintenance habits matter — vehicles that received timely fluid services and were not regularly overworked tend to last longer.
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/2020/Ford/Escape.
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.