2017 Ford Explorer steering problems

“Begin with cliff, I was not wanting to lock or locked or start the vehicle as I was driving. I stopped at the light vehicle started shaking, and as I drove through the light to pull over power steering assist failure, terrain, failure, and control failure.”

“I am reporting a serious safety concern with my 2017 Ford Explorer. The vehicle currently has approximately 93,752 miles and has become increasingly unreliable and unsafe to operate. On April 9, 2026, while my wife was driving home from work, the vehicle overheated, creating a dangerous situation and risk of sudden breakdown. This is especially concerning as the vehicle is used to transport children. Recently, after taking the vehicle in for an oil change, I was informed of multiple additional problems (three separate issues) affecting the vehicle. In addition, the check engine light remains on continuously, even after attempted repairs, indicating unresolved underlying problems. I have also previously attempted to have a recall repair completed, but was told that the necessary part was unavailable and that I would be contacted when it became available. Months later, I have still not been contacted, and the recall issue remains unresolved. Based on my experience and publicly documented issues, this appears consistent with known defects associated with this model, including reported water pump failures leading to engine overheating, rear suspension issues…”

“The contact owns a 2017 Ford Explorer. The contact stated while driving at approximately 10 MPH, the steering wheel became stiff with the message "Power Steering Loss" displayed. The vehicle was pulled over to the side of the road and restarted; however, the failure persisted. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 17V530000 (Steering). The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 109,000.”

“I am reporting a safety-related defect involving the electric power steering system on my 2017 Ford Explorer. The vehicle displays a “Steering System Fault” warning, and when this occurs the power steering assist is reduced or disabled, creating a safety risk during low-speed driving, turning, and parking. When the ignition is on with the engine off, multiple communication fault codes appear, including U0100, U0131, U0140, and U0151. After the engine is started, these communication codes disappear, but the steering fault warning remains illuminated and no active fault codes are stored. This behavior indicates the steering system enters a fail-safe state during startup and does not recover. The battery was tested and replaced. Fuses, relays, wiring, grounds, and voltage drop during engine cranking were checked and found to be normal. Steering system reset and relearn procedures were performed using diagnostic tools, but the issue persisted. No external electrical or communication network problems were identified. Based on these findings, the problem appears to be an internal failure of the electric power steering rack or its control module. The loss or reduction…”

“Problem with the power steering. When turning to the right, the wheel sticks. I have to forces it past the parts that sticks. This happens at low and high speeds. 68,569 miles all maintenance done at Ford dealership.”

“My daughter was driving our 2017 Ford Explorer when the steering wheel locked up without warning, putting her life at risk. It mirrors the exact steering rack failure already recalled for 2011–2013 Explorers (Recall #14S06 / NHTSA 14V286000). We were told by a certified mechanic that the steering rack and gear failed, and that this is a common issue in these models. Ford has opened Case #xxx-xxx, but refuses to take responsibility or escalate the matter. They acknowledge several other recalls on this vehicle, but not the steering system — even though multiple 2016–2017 Explorer owners report similar failures. This is a serious safety hazard that could result in death. I am requesting an immediate NHTSA investigation into expanding the current steering rack recall to include 2017 model Explorers. Please escalate this complaint and notify me of any developments. I am collecting evidence and testimony from other Explorer owners with the same issue.”