Sorry to hear about your issue. It’s possible your steering rack needs replacing. This is a common problem for 2013 models at this mileage.
Lei said:
Sorry to hear about your issue. It’s possible your steering rack needs replacing. This is a common problem for 2013 models at this mileage.
Thanks for the info. I was really hoping to avoid that since it’s such an expensive fix.
You might want to check if your Explorer has a recall for the EPAS steering. I got a notice from Ford. I called the dealer and they said some Explorers are having steering issues. If an error code shows up, they’ll reprogram the module or replace it. I didn’t know about this recall either until I heard from them. My 2012 Explorer has only been serviced at the dealership.
@Vega
Does it make a difference if I bought mine from a used dealership? I’ve had it since February 2023.
Cade said:
@Vega
Does it make a difference if I bought mine from a used dealership? I’ve had it since February 2023.
No, that shouldn’t be an issue. You can check the recall status here:
It sounds like your rack and pinion is shot. I had the same thing happen last year—same warning lights, steering completely locked up. I ended up replacing it. Take it to a shop that knows how to properly connect the rack and pinion and program it afterward, otherwise you might end up with a car that works temporarily or is drivable but without key features.
@Nico
Did you have it replaced at the dealership or did you do it yourself?
Cade said:
@Nico
Did you have it replaced at the dealership or did you do it yourself?
I had a certified mechanic do the work. If you have the right tools and experience, you could replace it yourself, but keep in mind you’d need to program the rack and pinion after the replacement.
@Nico
I’m considering programming it myself using Forscan and OBDLink.