Power Steering Service

This procedure verifies the electric power steering system operation on the 2021-2024 Ford F-150 3.5L EcoBoost, as this vehicle uses an electric power assist steering system with no hydraulic fluid to service.

Warnings

Tools required

Preparation

1. Verify vehicle has Electric Power Assisted Steering (EPAS) by confirming no power steering fluid reservoir under hood
2. Ensure ignition is in OFF position
3. Park vehicle on level surface and set parking brake
4. Allow engine to cool if recently operated

Procedure

1. 1

   Verify EPAS System Type
   Open the hood and visually confirm there is no power steering fluid reservoir. The 3.5L EcoBoost F-150 uses an electric motor mounted on the steering column or rack to provide steering assist, eliminating the need for hydraulic fluid, pump, or lines.
2. 2

   Connect Diagnostic Scan Tool
   Connect an OBD-II scan tool to the diagnostic port located under the driver's side dashboard. Turn ignition to ON position without starting the engine. Navigate to the power steering control module to check for any stored diagnostic trouble codes.
3. 3

   Check for Fault Codes
   Review any stored or pending fault codes related to the power steering system. Common EPAS codes include C0051 (steering position sensor fault), C0053 (steering angle sensor fault), or B0026 (EPAS motor circuit fault). Record all codes for diagnosis if steering issues are present.
4. 4

   Inspect Electrical Connections
   With ignition OFF, locate the EPAS motor connector on the steering column or rack assembly. Inspect the connector for corrosion, moisture, or loose pins. Check that the connector is fully seated and the locking tab is engaged.
5. 5

   Verify Ground Connections
   Locate the EPAS ground points on the chassis. Verify ground connections are clean, tight, and free of corrosion. Use a multimeter to check for continuity between the EPAS module ground and battery negative terminal if electrical issues are suspected.
6. 6

   Perform Steering Angle Sensor Calibration
   If the steering wheel position sensor requires calibration after alignment work or component replacement, use the scan tool to access the EPAS module calibration function. Follow the on-screen prompts to center the steering wheel and complete the steering angle sensor learning procedure.
   ⚠Steering angle sensor calibration requires the steering wheel to be centered with wheels pointed straight ahead. Perform this on level ground with vehicle stationary.
7. 7

   Test Steering Operation
   Start the engine and verify the power steering warning light is not illuminated on the instrument cluster. Turn the steering wheel lock-to-lock at idle to verify normal power assist is present. The steering should feel light and responsive with no binding, unusual noises, or excessive effort required.

Reassembly

1. No disassembly required for EPAS system verification
2. Clear any diagnostic trouble codes if issues were resolved
3. Disconnect scan tool and close hood

Verification

• Confirm no power steering warning lights are illuminated on the instrument cluster
• Test drive the vehicle and verify smooth, responsive steering assist at various speeds
• Verify steering returns to center normally after turns
• Re-scan for fault codes after test drive to ensure no new codes are present
• If steering concerns persist, further diagnosis of the EPAS motor, control module, or steering angle sensor may be required

Related trouble codes on this vehicle

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