NHTSA Complaint #11418457 — 2013 FORD EXPLORER

The contact owns a 2013 Ford Explorer. The contact stated while driving at various speeds, an abnormal grinding sound was coming from the steering wheel while turning in either direction, without warning. The contact had taken the vehicle to an independent mechanic and was informed that the steering gearbox was defective and that if not replaced, the power steering would fail to operate. Months later, while driving 55 mph, the "service power steering" message appeared on the instrument panel. Upon leaving a bank, the contact started her vehicle, and the "service power steering now" and "lane-keeping system, services required" messages appeared on the instrument panel. Due to the complete loss of power steering, the vehicle was towed to her home. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and informed her that her vehicle was not included in NHTSA Campaign Number: 14V286000 (steering) and referred her to the NHTSA for assistance. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 144,000.