After a preliminary evaluation (PE12-017) concerning allegations of loss of power steering assist on some 2011 Explorer SUV’s, Ford has submitted a defect and noncompliance report recalling approximately one hundred and eighty thousand 2011-2013 Ford Explorer vehicles.

In some of these vehicles, an intermittent electrical connection in the electric power steering gear could lead to loss of motor position senor signals. The problem could result in a fault code that removes all power steering assist and will default to manual steering mode. Drivers will notice an increased effort to steer, an alert of the problem through an audible chime, and the display of a power steering assist fault message in the instrument cluster.

Ford has indicated that in the event of a loss of steering assist, the mechanical linkage will continue to be maintained at all times, but the unexpected increased steering could increase the chance of an accident. Owners wanting more information about the problem can call Ford’s customer service at 1-800-392-3673. Ford’s recall number is 14S06 and the NHTSA campaign number is 14V-286.