Understanding Power Steering Assist Fault
When the power steering assist fault occurs in your Ford Fusion 2012, it means that the electric power steering system is experiencing an error that is interfering with its function. The power steering assist fault is usually indicated by a warning light on the dashboard. This warning light can be accompanied by one of the following messages “Service Power Steering Now” or “Power Steering Assist Fault”. This problem can occur at any time, whether you are driving at high or low speeds, and can make your steering wheel difficult or impossible to turn.
Most drivers do not take this issue seriously until the power steering completely fails and it becomes nearly impossible to control the vehicle. This can be highly dangerous and lead to accidents or collisions on the road. Therefore, it is essential to fix the power steering assist fault as soon as it occurs to avoid any potential accidents and keep your vehicle running smoothly.
The power steering assist fault can be caused by various issues in your car. Some common causes include low voltage in the car’s battery, faulty electric power steering pumps, wiring issues, faulty steering angle sensors, and more. If these issues are not addressed immediately, they can cause serious damage to the car’s electrical system and affect other parts of the car.
If you suspect that your Ford Fusion has a power steering assist fault, you should stop driving immediately and seek professional help. Driving with this issue can result in significant safety concerns, and you don’t want to risk your life or others on the road.
The first step in fixing the power steering assist fault is to identify the root cause of the issue. This can be done by running a diagnostic check on the vehicle, preferably by a certified mechanic or technician. The diagnostic check can help you understand the exact problem, and what needs to be done to fix it.
Once the root cause of the problem has been identified, there are several ways to fix it. One of the most common solutions is to replace the faulty parts of the power steering system, such as the steering angle sensor or the steering pump. Depending on the issue, replacing these parts can be quite costly, and it is essential to ensure that the mechanic or technician you use is experienced and reliable.
If the issue is related to the car’s battery, all you would need to do is to recharge or replace the battery. In some cases, the issue can be resolved by resetting the car’s computer system by disconnecting the battery for a few minutes. However, it is worth noting that while this may be a temporary fix, it will not solve the root problem and may cause the issue to reoccur.
In conclusion, the power steering assist fault can cause serious safety concerns and should never be ignored. If you suspect that your Ford Fusion 2012 has this issue, it is essential to seek professional help immediately. Also, make sure to use a reliable and experienced technician to fix the issue. This will give you peace of mind when driving, knowing that your vehicle is safe and under control.
Checking Power Steering Fluid Level
One of the common causes of power steering assist fault in a Ford Fusion 2012 is low power steering fluid level. The power steering fluid is responsible for providing the hydraulic pressure that the power steering system needs to function properly. Therefore, if there is a leak in the power steering system or the level of fluid is low, you may experience difficulty while steering the vehicle. Here is how to check the power steering fluid level:
- Park your Ford Fusion 2012 on a level surface and turn off the engine.
- Open the hood of the car and locate the power steering fluid reservoir. It is usually located near the engine and has a cap that says “Power Steering Fluid.”
- Remove the cap of the power steering fluid reservoir and wipe it clean with a clean rag.
- Check the level of the fluid by looking at the dipstick attached to the cap or by looking directly into the reservoir. The level should be at or above the “MIN” mark on the dipstick or reservoir.
- If the level is low, add power steering fluid until it reaches the “MAX” mark. Use the type of power steering fluid recommended by Ford.
- Put the cap back on the reservoir and start the engine. Turn the steering wheel from left to right a few times to circulate the fluid.
- Turn off the engine and check the fluid level again. Add more fluid if necessary and repeat the process until the level is at the “MAX” mark.
It is important to note that overfilling the power steering fluid reservoir can also cause problems with the power steering system. Therefore, make sure you do not overfill the reservoir while adding the fluid.
Additionally, if you notice that the fluid level is consistently low, there may be a leak in the power steering system. In such a case, have your Ford Fusion 2012 checked by a professional mechanic for any leaks or damages.
Regularly checking and maintaining the power steering fluid level can prevent issues with the power steering system. It is recommended to check the power steering fluid level at least once a month or as recommended in the owner’s manual.
Inspecting Power Steering Pump and Belt
One of the main reasons behind the power steering assist fault in Ford Fusion 2012 could be a problem with the power steering pump or belt. Therefore, it is essential to inspect the power steering pump and belt before taking any other step.
The power steering pump is responsible for generating the hydraulic pressure that enables the power steering to function correctly. If the pump is not functioning correctly, then it can lead to a power steering assist fault in the car. One of the most common problems with the power steering pump is leakage of power steering fluid, which can cause the pump to malfunction. Therefore, while inspecting the pump, it is essential to look for any signs of leakage.
The power steering belt is another essential component that helps the power steering system to function effectively. A loose or damaged belt can lead to a power steering assist fault in the car. While inspecting the belt, it is essential to check whether it is tight enough. If the belt is too tight, it can cause the pump to malfunction, while if it is too loose, it can result in slippage.
During the inspection, it is also essential to check for any signs of wear and tear on the belt. If there are any visible cracks or splits, it is an indication that the belt needs to be replaced.
In case the inspection reveals any problem with the power steering pump or belt, it is recommended to take the help of a professional mechanic. A skilled mechanic will be able to diagnose the problem accurately and make the necessary repairs.
In addition to inspecting the power steering pump and belt, it is also advisable to check the power steering fluid level regularly. The power steering system requires an adequate amount of fluid to function correctly. If the fluid level is low, it can cause the pump to malfunction and lead to a power steering assist fault. Therefore, make sure to check the fluid level regularly and refill it as required.
It is essential to note that a power steering assist fault can occur due to various reasons, and inspecting the power steering pump and belt is just one step towards fixing the problem. Proper maintenance and inspection of all the components related to the power steering system can help in preventing such faults from occurring.
Replacing Power Steering Rack and Pinion
If the power steering assist fault in your 2012 Ford Fusion is due to a faulty power steering rack and pinion, then you will need to replace it. The rack and pinion are the two main components of your vehicle’s steering system. The rack is a long metal rod with teeth and grooves that move side to side. At each end of the rod, there is a ball joint that connects it to the steering knuckles.
The pinion is a small gear at the end of the steering column that meshes with the rack and converts the rotary motion of the steering wheel into the linear motion of the rack. When you turn the steering wheel, the pinion moves the rack left or right, which turns the wheels. When the steering rack fails, it can cause various issues such as stiffness while turning, wandering, pulling, and even total loss of steering control. To replace the power steering rack and pinion in your Ford Fusion, follow these steps:
Step 1: Disconnect the Battery
Before starting any repair work on your vehicle, you must disconnect the battery to avoid any electrical shock or damage to your car’s electrical components.
Step 2: Raise the Vehicle
Use a jack to raise the vehicle off the ground and support it with jack stands. This step is crucial to provide adequate clearance underneath the car to work on the steering system.
Step 3: Remove the Wheel and Tie Rod Ends
Loosen and remove the lug nuts securing the wheel, and then remove the wheel. With the help of a ball joint separator, separate the tie rod end from the steering knuckle.
Step 4: Remove the Steering Rack
Unfasten the steering rack from the frame or subframe and then remove the rack from the vehicle. You may need to detach some electrical connectors, hoses, and brackets that secure the rack in place.
Step 5: Install the New Steering Rack
Place the new steering rack in position and attach it to the frame or subframe. Tighten the bolts or nuts according to the manufacturer’s specifications. Reconnect the hoses, electrical connectors, and brackets that you unfastened earlier.
Step 6: Reinstall the Tie Rod Ends and Wheel
Reattach the tie rod end to the steering knuckle and then torque the nut to the recommended value. Install the wheel and tighten the lug nuts to avoid any wheel vibration or wobbling. Lower the vehicle to the ground.
Step 7: Bleed the Power Steering system
After replacing the steering rack and pinion, you need to bleed the power steering system to remove any trapped air that may cause a power steering noise or reduced performance. To do this, you will need to start the engine and turn the steering wheel left and right several times while checking the power steering fluid level.
In conclusion, replacing the power steering rack and pinion in your 2012 Ford Fusion requires moderate mechanical skills and some special tools. If you are not confident with your abilities, it is recommended to take your car to a professional mechanic or auto repair shop to avoid any safety hazards or risks of damage to your vehicle.
Seeking Professional Help for Power Steering Assist Faults
If you have tried all the DIY approaches to fix your 2012 Ford Fusion’s power steering assist fault and still have no joy, it’s time to consider seeking professional help. While you may have the technical know-how to figure out the problem, leaving a professional to handle it ensures the job is done correctly and meets all factory specifications. With that said, here are some tips to help you find the right professional to fix the problem.
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1. Find a Certified Ford Mechanic
You do not want to make the mistake of entrusting your Ford Fusion to a regular mechanic. To get your car running like new again, you need a certified Ford mechanic who has the knowledge and expertise to fix the power steering assist fault. A certified mechanic is trained to handle both minor and major repairs using only genuine Ford replacement parts, which will prolong the lifespan of your Ford Fusion.
2. Get Referrals
Word of mouth is one of the most effective ways of finding a good mechanic. Connect with family, friends, or colleagues who own Ford Fusions and have had their power steering assist faults fixed. They can provide you with honest feedback on their experience and recommend a mechanic they trust and who offers quality services.
3. Check Certifications and Licenses
When looking for a professional mechanic, it is necessary to check their certifications and licenses. A certified and licensed mechanic has undergone rigorous training and passed various exams, which means they know how to fix your car’s power steering assist fault correctly and safely. They will use the right tools and procedures to diagnose and fix the problem while ensuring your car’s warranty remains intact.
4. Compare Prices and Quality of Service
Before choosing a professional mechanic to fix your power steering assist fault, you need to compare prices and quality of services from different service providers. This way, you can be sure you are getting value for your money. However, do not go for the cheapest option, especially if it means compromising the quality of service. Go for a mechanic who offers a fair price and quality services that match your car’s needs.
5. Choose a Mechanic with a Warranty or Guarantee
You need to choose a mechanic who provides some form of guarantee or warranty on their services. This way, you can be sure that if the problem recurs within a specified time, you can return the car and have the mechanic fix it at no extra cost. A warranty or guarantee gives you peace of mind and confidence in the mechanic’s services.
In conclusion, fixing a power steering assist fault on a 2012 Ford Fusion requires a professional mechanic’s expertise and know-how. However, to get the best service, you need to choose a certified Ford mechanic, get referrals, check certifications and licenses, compare prices and quality of service, and choose a mechanic who provides a warranty or guarantee. These tips will ensure your Ford Fusion’s power steering assist fault is fixed correctly, and your car runs like new again.