2011–2013 Ford Explorer: Power steering assist cuts out (EPAS motor position sensor recall)
Likely causes, ranked
- Intermittent EPS gear / motor position sensor connection$0–$0Shop
Real-owner fix counts will appear here as reports come in.
DIY or shop: See DIY or shop section
Parts to check
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Symptom: A power-steering fault message and chime, then suddenly heavier steering, especially at low speed. Assist may return after a restart until the fault sticks.
Likely causes
- Intermittent EPS gear / motor position sensor connection. Ford updates the PSCM software and replaces the steering gear when the fault is present.
DIY or shop?
Dealer. Recall repairs are free.
Useful steps
- Check your VIN for 14V286 (Ford 14S06).
- If assist drops while driving, slow down carefully and get it diagnosed.
Vehicle focus: 2011–2013 Ford Explorer.
Safety / mechanic note
Loss of assist raises crash risk. Verify with a mechanic or dealer.
Recalls & service bulletins
Recalls
- 14V286000 2011–2013 Explorer built May 17, 2010 through February 28, 2012: an intermittent connection in the electric power steering gear can lose the motor position sensor signal and shut off assist. Dealers update the power steering control module software and may replace the steering gear. Details
NHTSA complaints: 2,192 keyword-matched complaints for Ford EXPLORER 2011–2013 (of 4,216 unique complaints queried, NHTSA complaints API by model year, queried 2026-10-16).
Always check your VIN for open recalls at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Sources
What actually fixed it?
Had this problem? Tell other owners what the real fix was. Reports are counted above; we never show made-up numbers.