Power steering shuts with an error message

Tiny
GARY L.
  • MEMBER
  • 2013 FORD C-MAX
  • 44,000 MILES
Hi,

Several times just after I started the car the power steering shuts off with an error message. I restarted the car and it was okay. Yet, I am worried this could happen again and put me in danger. I had it checked by my mechanic and he found nothing on the scope. He said it may not show up when the car is operating correctly. Is this an identifiable issue with the 2013 C-Max? Is there a code that would correspond to the issue? Please advise. Thanks, Gary
Tuesday, August 3rd, 2021 AT 12:03 PM

1 Reply

Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 108,288 POSTS
Hi,

Do you know if the scan that was done was able to communicate with the power steering control module? Was the CAN bus scanned?

Here is a video showing a can scan being done. CAN stands for controller area network. Basically, all computers/modules are tied together via a few wires. This type of scan will retrieve diagnostic trouble codes regardless of the module storing them. This is what needs to be done:

https://youtu.be/InIlnsjOVFA

As far as the system, here is how it works. In the event of a problem, the PSCM will enter one of two modes.

The EPAS (electronic power assist steering) enters reduced steering assist mode to protect the internal components of the EPAS (electronic power assist steering) when a concern is detected by the PSCM (power steering control module) such as low/high battery voltage or over-temperature concerns that are not considered to be a critical safety concern. This reduced steering assist mode gives the steering a heavier than normal feel.

The EPAS (electronic power assist steering) enters a manual steering mode (no electrical steering assistance is provided) when a concern that is considered to be a critical safety concern is detected. In manual steering mode, the vehicle has mechanical steering operation only, which gives steering operation a heavy feel.

As far as diagnostic trouble codes, there are more than one. However, in most cases, they will be a "B" type code.

Find out if the mechanic scanned the can-bus system. If he finds his scanner can't communicate with the PSCM, I attached the diagnostics below.

I hope something here helps. Let me know what you find or if you have other questions.

Take care,

Joe

See pics below.
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Tuesday, August 3rd, 2021 AT 9:42 PM

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