NHTSA Complaint #11441113 — 2012 FORD FUSION

Our 2012 Ford Fusion began displaying a “POWER STEERING ASSIST FAULT” summer of 2021. We did not record the 1st instance of this fault, but began recording subsequent instances on 7/25, 10/18, 10/20, 10/21 On 10/21 the vehicle also displayed “SERVICE ADVANCE TRAC.” We were unable to steer the car when the fault occurred, although we were able to put it in reverse or drive, which seems extremely dangerous. Fortunately, these instances occurred while parked. The vehicle ignition was turned off and restarted, which cleared the fault & power steering resumed. This vehicle had less than 69,000 on Aug 4, 2021 when taken to Courtesy Ford in Portland, OR where the vehicle was purchased to replace the driver side airbag under recall notice received in the mail. We had them investigate the power steering assist fault during the same service. We were advised that the Ford mechanic was “Unable to duplicate customers concern” and “No fault codes in the system.” The vehicle was then taken to Damerow Ford in Beaverton, OR on 11/18/21. The next day, 11/19/2021, we were advised of an electrical problem in the steering assembly. We were told that it needed to be replaced along with some bolts and nuts. The invoice indicates that the steering gear assembly was replaced & gear was programmed. The bill came to over $2205.62. We’ve discovered through an online search that Ford is well aware of this problem & has been for years. We’ve been told by both dealers our VIN number is not included in the recall and the extended warranty for this issue, which makes no sense. Fortunately, we did not experience the lack of steering while driving, as others have. Our lives & vehicle & the lives and property of others on and along the roadways we have traveled were jeopardized with a well known safety issue & Ford Motor Company is not standing behind their product. Do we have recourse for reimbursement from Ford Motor Company through the NTSB for this unethical corporate behavior?