2011 Ford Escape: Steering complaints
Owner-reported issue (NHTSA complaints, not a recall)
Symptoms
NHTSA has 425 owner complaints for the 2011 Ford Escape that list the steering component. Complaints are individual owner reports, not verified defects.
Examples:
- NHTSA complaint ODI #11770916 (filed 10/13/2026): “The contact owns a 2011 ford escape. the contact stated that while driving at 25 mph, the power steering assist became inoperable, requiring greater effort to steer the vehicle. the failure mileage was approximately 169,781.…”
- NHTSA complaint ODI #11769905 (filed 10/08/2026): “My 2011 ford escape is experiencing symptoms of the recall of the faulty electric power steering (eps) torque sensor. its not often, but when i turn on the car i wont have power steering but when i turn it off and turn it back on the power steering works. is there anyway you could open/put a recall …”
- NHTSA complaint ODI #11757910 (filed 08/19/2026): “I have a 2011 ford escape awd 3.0 engine. i took it for ny state inspection and it fails due the right side front subframe is rusted and unsafe. ford has a recall on models up to 2004 but this vehicle has the same issue of the a/c draining on it causing the rust. i have been an auto tech for over 48…”
Likely causes
These complaints do not establish a single root cause; read the examples above and get a diagnosis.
Fix, in plain English
No single fix is established by these reports. Check your VIN for open recalls at nhtsa.gov/recalls, ask a dealer about technical service bulletins (TSBs) or extended warranty coverage, then have the system diagnosed.
DIY difficulty: Pro
Electric power steering faults typically need module diagnosis with a scan tool and calibration. (Our assessment.)
Cost
No sourced cost range for this issue. Get a written quote after diagnosis.
Typical parts (search links, no affiliate codes)
AutoZone · O'Reilly · Advance · RockAuto
Sources
Page last updated .