NHTSA Complaint #11420567 — 2016 FORD EXPLORER

Driving down Interstate and steering started to get sticky. Steering wheel would grab, be difficult to turn, then release. Suddenly the 'traction control' light on the dashboard flashed and then within 2-3 minutes the 'Loss of Steering' dashboard message flashed and the steering wheel froze. Fortunately we were on a flat/straight stretch of highway or this could have been catastrophic. This could easily result in a fatal crash. We had the vehicle towed to nearest Ford dealership and they diagnosed that the 'Steering gear seized internally' and the vehicle was repaired at a cost exceeding $2000.00. Tow Truck Operator communicated they have never seen a steering column completely freeze like this one did. I have the service invoice on file.