2014 Ford Explorer: Steering complaints
Owner-reported issue (NHTSA complaints, not a recall)
Symptoms
NHTSA has 499 owner complaints for the 2014 Ford Explorer that list the steering component. Complaints are individual owner reports, not verified defects.
Examples:
- NHTSA complaint ODI #11771470 (filed 10/15/2026): “Power assist steering fails and becomes very difficult to turn the steering wheel, requiring much force to initiate a turn and requires just as much force to disengage/return the steering to a straight ahead direction. it cuts out unexpectedly and often. dealer has examined and says cannot be repair…”
- NHTSA complaint ODI #11766275 (filed 09/23/2026): “My 2014 ford explorer experienced a serious electric power steering failure. while driving, the vehicle displayed “power steering assist fault” and the steering became extremely difficult to turn due to loss of steering assistance. i was driving with my child in the vehicle when this occurred. i bel…”
- NHTSA complaint ODI #11765142 (filed 09/17/2026): “Steering simply shutoff and locked up while driving. i seen there's a recall on 2013 ford exploers but not for 2014 even though its the same problem. now im without a vehicle and it will be a expensive repair.…”
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