Power Steering for a 2014 Ford Focus
The 2014 Ford Focus uses an electronic power steering system, meaning no traditional fluid is needed.
Written by Emily Maracle
Reviewed by Melanie Reiff
Since your 2014 Ford Focus uses an electronic power steering system, you won’t be able to fix issues with your power steering by changing the fluid. While you’ll likely have to take your car to the mechanic if you’re experiencing issues, there are a few signs to look out for to determine if it’s time to visit a mechanic.
If you’re driving along and notice your steering wheel becomes hard to turn, one side is easier to turn than the other, or your electric power steering light illuminates, your Ford Focus is experiencing issues with its electronic power steering system. While you won’t be able to change your power steering fluid at home, it doesn’t mean you automatically have to visit a mechanic.
To learn more about electronic power steering, common issues you may face, and when to visit a mechanic,
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Does my 2014 Ford Focus use power steering fluid?
While older vehicles use either a hydraulic or electro-hydraulic power steering system, many newer vehicles have moved to electronic power steering systems (EPS). With an electronic power steering system, your 2014 Ford Focus no longer needs traditional power steering fluid. Instead, it uses electricity and sensors to help turn the wheels.
For example, how fast you’re going is sent to your Focus’ power steering system, which determines how much power steering assistance to use.
Common problems with 2014 Ford Focus power steering
Although technology has advanced significantly, it doesn’t mean your EPS is without issues. Some problems you may experience with an electronic power steering system are fairly similar to a hydraulic system but typically require a mechanic's knowledge. Common problems include:
- Pulling or alignment problems: If yourFordis pulling to one side or it’s easy to turn the steering wheel one way and difficult the other, you likely have EPS issues.
- Sounds coming from the steering wheel: You may hear grinding, squeaking, or squealing noises coming from your steering wheel.
- Difficulty steering: The steering wheel may feel heavy or difficult to turn in either direction.
- Your EPS light is illuminated: If the EPS light illuminates on your dashboard, the system has detected an issue with your electric power steering system.
Should I try to fix it myself or take it to a mechanic?
Since your 2014 Ford Focus doesn’t use a hydraulic power steering system, a fix for your system isn’t as easy as changing your power steering fluid. But that doesn’t mean you have to rush off to a mechanic!
Should you have issues with your power steering or your EPS light is illuminated, check your battery. Your battery powers everything electronic in your vehicle, and a faulty battery can cause all sorts of issues.
Disconnecting and reconnecting your battery is an option, but you’ll also want to check your battery’s output. If you don’t have a voltmeter handy, you can visit an auto repair shop or parts store for a battery test. Locations like AutoZone and Advance Auto Parts often offer free battery testing. Otherwise, you can opt for a jumpstart to see if that recharges your battery.
Once recharged, turn your car on and drive around for a few miles. If your Ford is still difficult to steer or the light has turned back on, it’s time to visit a mechanic.
Cost to repair a 2014 Ford Focus’ power steering
Unfortunately, a trip to the mechanics isn’t going to be cheap. Depending on the cause of your issue, a 2014 Ford Focus power steering fix could range anywhere from $300 to $2,500+, depending on the malfunction, where you live, and the shop you visit.
For a better idea of the cost, consider investing in an
OBD II code scanner
to determine what error code your car is reporting. From there, you’ll have a better idea of what repairs may need to be done. When do you change a Ford Focus’ power steering fluid?
In Ford Focus models from 2011 and earlier, you should only need to change your power steering fluid every three to four years or 30,000 miles, whichever comes first.
However, with a 2014 Ford Focus, you aren’t required to change the power steering fluid since there isn’t any! If you experience any problems with your EPS or power steering system, it may not occur until your vehicle has hit the 80,000 to 100,000-mile mark.
Even so, the Ford Focus is known to have issues with the electronic power steering system in vehicles under 10,000 miles to vehicles with 75,000+. If you notice any of these signs, you likely have a power steering malfunction:
- Strange noises while turning
- Difficulty steering
- Loss of power steering
- EPS light on the dashboard
How to save money on Ford insurance
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Can I replace the power steering fluid in my 2014 Ford Focus myself?
Unfortunately, no. After the 2011 model year, Ford made the power steering system in the Focus electric. With an electronic power steering system, no fluid is used.
Is it common for a 2014 Ford Focus power steering system to fail?
It is somewhat common. Many Ford owners report issues with their power steering systems, and there has been a recall on some 2014 Ford Focus vehicles as the steering gears were assembled incorrectly, leading to issues.
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