how to fix power steering assist fault ford f150

Exactly How To Fix Power Steering Assist Fault in Ford F150!

Getting a power steering assist fault message in your Ford F150 dashboard? I’ve been there too, and it’s often linked to several reasons.

To fix the power steering assist fault in Ford F150, pay attention to PCM, faulty fuses, or an EPS rack and pinion. This requires changing the faulty parts or resetting the system

Tackling this issue is simpler than you think. Whether it’s swapping out faulty components or performing a system reset, I’ve got you covered. In this guide, I’ll unravel the mysteries behind each glitch, empowering you to troubleshoot like a pro.

Here’s How To Fix Power Steering Assist Fault Ford F150!

You can easily resolve the issue of the power steering assist fault in your F150 once you figure out the root cause.

power steering assist fault message ford f150
Image 1: Power Steering Assist Fault Message In Ford F150

So, how do you fix power steering malfunction?

Fix power steering malfunction by changing or resetting the PCM, replacing the burnt fuses, or changing the EPS rack and pinion.

To know the process in detail, here’s the table and description:

CausesRepairs
Faulty power control moduleReset or replace the power control module
Blown out fusesReplace fuses
Bad power steering rack and pinionReplace the power steering rack and pinion
Table 1: Reasons and Fixes for Power Steering Assist Fault In Ford F150

Reason #1: Bad PCM

The steering assist fault service required Ford F150 error message to pop up on the dashboard when the PCM goes dead or can’t access properly. To troubleshoot it, you’ll need to change the PCM or reset it.

How to Fix?

You can fix the problem with the power steering in your F150 car by resetting or changing the PCM unit. Here’s how you can reset it:

  • Firstly, you’ll need to unlock the Ford F150. If the keys are locked inside, check this guide to unlock it easily. Then, open the hood of your car and find the battery. Use an 8mm tool to disconnect the black (negative) cable.
  • Next, turn on the headlights to use up any leftover power. Wait until the power drains completely through the headlights.
  • Afterward, leave it like this for 30 minutes, then reconnect the black cable to the battery using the same tool.
  • Then, turn the ignition switch to ON and wait for 10 seconds. Just remember to turn off the radio after this short wait.
  • After that, start the engine 10 seconds after turning the ignition on. Let the engine run for 10 minutes without using the AC or wipers.
  • Finally, take your car for a short drive to test if the issue is fixed.

And, if it doesn’t fix the issue, simply change the PCM unit from your F150. To know the process in a detailed way, be sure to check this guide about F150 not starting with no noise where I’ve explained it.

Repair Cost: $1,000 or less ($650 or more for parts and the rest for labor).

Duration: 60 minutes.

Reason #2: Burnt Out Fuse

Another reason for the F150 power steering assist fault can be blown out fuses in the fuse or relay box. Multiple PCM fuses help operate power steering assist.

When one of them goes bad, it can affect the system and cause issues. In that case, simply change the faulty fuses to resolve the bug.

How to Fix?

  • To begin with, open the hood and locate the fuse box before removing its cover.
  • Next, locate the PCM fuses inside the fuse box. In general, the fuses are 10amp, 20amp, 25amp, and 15amp.
  • Then, check the condition of fuses using a voltmeter and search for burnt marks.
  • After that, replace them.

Repair Cost: $100 ($5 or more for parts and the rest for labor).

Duration: 15 minutes.

Reason #3: Faulty Power Steering Rack and Pinion

Sometimes the bad power steering rack and pinion can cause issues with power steering assist in your F150 car. To get rid of it, just change the EPS rack and pinion.

How to Fix?

  • To start with, use a J2534 flash tool inside a laptop and a USB port in your car to take info out of the original rack and pinion thing.
  • Then, you’ll need to use Ford’s IDS (Integrated Diagnostic System) to perform PMI and upload module configuration info from the power steering control module.
  • Afterward, open the hood and take out the negative battery cable using an 8mm socket wrench.
  • Now, position your car before attaching a steering wheel lock to the center and secure the wheel so that it doesn’t spin. Be sure your car is jacked up using a transmission jack stand.
  • Next, take off the front wheels, tires, and skid plate. You’ll also need to loosen up and remove the outer tie rod along with jam nuts. Be sure to unthread the outer tie roads and jam nuts before taking out the steering shaft from the rack.
  • Then, disconnect 2 steering gear electrical connectors and 4 wiring harness retainers. Once it’s done, detach the steering gear to cross member bolts to successfully take out the rack and pinion.
  • Finally, install a new rack and pinion on its old spot. Then, reinstall all the removed parts.

Repair Cost: $2,800 or above ($250 or less for labor and the rest for parts).

Duration: 30 minutes.

Wrapping Up

Fixing the power steering assist fault on your Ford F150 car will take less time if you know how to do it with little basic mechanical skills.

If you find it hard to do it yourself, be sure to seek help from a Ford dealer. Or, you can go to the local auto shop to fix it. Hope you find it helpful and detailed enough to fix the bug. Happy Driving!

Now, look at this interesting guide to know exactly how many catalytic converters are in a Ford F150 car. Start Reading Here!

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