2012 Ford Explorer: Steering complaints
Owner-reported issue (NHTSA complaints, not a recall)
Symptoms
NHTSA has 360 owner complaints for the 2012 Ford Explorer that list the steering component. Complaints are individual owner reports, not verified defects.
Examples:
- NHTSA complaint ODI #11768099 (filed 09/30/2026): “The contact owns a 2012 ford explorer. the contact stated that while driving 50 mph, the steering wheel seized. the contact pulled over to the side of the road, the vehicle was restarted; however, the failure persisted. the vehicle was towed to the residence, and an independent mechanic arrived to d…”
- NHTSA complaint ODI #11767698 (filed 09/29/2026): “The contact owns a 2012 ford explorer. the contact stated that while pulling out of the driveway, the power steering became inoperable, with the power steering fault message displayed. the contact stated that the steering wheel became difficult to turn while driving at slow speeds. the failure milea…”
- NHTSA complaint ODI #11760880 (filed 08/31/2026): “The contact owns a 2012 ford explorer. the contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed and making turns, the steering wheel made loud grinding sounds and was loose. the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. the manufacturer was made aware of the fa…”
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