2017 Ford Explorer: steering wheel locks up

Filed Nov 3, 2025 · Steering · VA

My daughter was driving our 2017 Ford Explorer when the steering wheel locked up without warning, putting her life at risk. It mirrors the exact steering rack failure already recalled for 2011–2013 Explorers (Recall #14S06 / the federal safety agency 14V286000). We were told by a certified mechanic that the steering rack and gear failed, and that this is a common issue in these models. Ford has opened Case #xxx-xxx, but refuses to take responsibility or escalate the matter. They acknowledge several other recalls on this vehicle, but not the steering system — even though multiple 2016–2017 Explorer owners report similar failures. This is a serious safety hazard that could result in death. I am requesting an immediate the federal safety agency investigation into expanding the current steering rack recall to include 2017 model Explorers. Please escalate this complaint and notify me of any developments. I am collecting evidence and testimony from other Explorer owners with the same issue.

Filed Nov 15, 2024 · Steering · 36,000 miles · FL

The contact owns a 2017 Ford Explorer. The contact stated that while his sister was driving 5 MPH making a right turn, the steering wheel seized and failed to turn as needed. There were no warning lights illuminated. The driver was able to continue driving to the residence. The contact called the local dealer and was informed that the failure was due to the power steering unit. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was approximately 36,000.

Filed Aug 11, 2023 · Steering · 140,186 miles · NJ

Power steering locked up during a drive around the block, had to turn off the engine and turn it back on. After the car was running again, no issue. If this issue persists or comes back again, drivers aside from myself will be put in danger on the road as the steering can lock up anytime during the drive. I was lucky enough to only have it happen during a short drive around the block.

Filed Aug 2, 2019 · Steering · 15,000 miles · TX

Clicking noise when turning the steering left or right.I was told by the dealer that he heard the same noise from the same model and year vehicle. This needs more analysis as this may be a safety concern if the steering wheel locks

Filed Jun 15, 2019 · Steering · 44,200 miles · TX

Driving one day in the neighborhood and power steering locked up briefly intermittently, with the error message. Turned car off and on again and was fine, later on in the day power steering locked up for good and the error message is always there.

Filed May 6, 2019 · Steering · 40,000 miles · VA

Tl* the contact owns a 2017 ford explorer. While driving, the steering seized and the "steering assist fault, service required" indicator illuminated. The vehicle was taken to crossroads ford of prince george (877‑331‑9405, located at 4500 whitehill blvd, prince george, va 23875) where it was determined that the VIN was not included in a recall. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and stated that there was no recall; however, the contact was offered a discount of $1,082 towards the repair cost. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 40,000.

Filed Mar 25, 2019 · Steering · 53,000 miles · MT

While driving 60 MPH my steering wheel seized completely, a bell started ringing, and an indicator light on my dashboard started flashing that steering failed. Please park safely. There was no warning and my car had been working perfectly before this happened. This caused serious threat of collision and grave bodily damage/death.

Filed Feb 1, 2018 · Steering · 13,750 miles · MA · crash

Making a left turn in the snow and my power steering locked up and I hit the curb, thr dealer is telling me there's no way this can happen and has never happened before. Won't warranty anything and I'm stuck with a vehicle I believe to be unsafe for my wife and children to ride in.