NHTSA Complaint #11632490 — 2016 FORD EXPLORER

The contact owns a 2016 Ford Explorer. The contact stated that while driving 45 -50 MPH and attempting to merge towards the left around a curved road, the power steering was seized. The steering assistance failed and to service the steering assist warning illuminated. The contact continued to drive and the power steering self-corrected as they continued to drive. The vehicle was taken to the dealer who diagnosed that the power steering assist had failed. The vehicle was taken to a certified mechanic who replaced the power steering unit with an aftermarket part. Approximately one year later, while driving approximately 40 MPH when the failure reoccurred. The contact managed to slightly loosen the steering wheel, however, while continuing to drive, the steering wheel would continue to stiffen causing them to have to aggressively maneuver the steering wheel. The same warning lights had illuminated. After the vehicle was driven home, the steering wheel completely seized. The vehicle was not taken to the dealer. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired a second time. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and filed a case. The failure mileage was unknown.