2021 Ford F-150 Owners Manual - Steering

Steering

Adapt your speed and driving behavior according to reduced steering assist.

Extreme continuous steering may increase the effort to steer. This occurs to prevent internal overheating and damage to the steering system. If this occurs, you will not lose the ability to steer your vehicle manually nor will it cause damage to the system. Normal steering and driving allows the system to cool down and steering assist returns to normal.

Note: There is no fluid reservoir to check or fill.

Electric Power Steering Adaptive Steering (If Equipped)

Electric Power-Assisted Steering (EPAS)

The adaptive steering system changes the steering ratio with changes to vehicle speed, optimizing the steering response in all conditions. The system also changes when you switch on the transmission tow/haul feature. When you select the tow/haul button, the adaptive steering system reduces vehicle sensitivity to steering inputs at higher vehicle speeds, while maintaining the ease of parking and maneuverability at low speeds.

Note: The adaptive steering system continuously monitors for faults. If the system detects a fault, a message appears in the information display. If a red warning message displays, stop your vehicle as soon as it is safe to do so. The message could clear if the fault is no longer present. If an adaptive steering system warning message appears each time you start your vehicle, have the system checked as soon as possible.

Note: The system is designed with a locking device. It remains mechanically locked at a fixed steering ratio with the lock engaged. You may notice a click when you turn your vehicle on or off.

Note: If your vehicle loses electrical power or detects a fault when you are driving, the system shuts down and you retain a normal steering function with a fixed steering ratio. During this time it is possible that the steering wheel could not be straight when the vehicle is driving straight ahead. In addition, you could notice that the steering wheel angle required to steer your vehicle could be different.

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Note: During parking maneuvers, the adaptive steering system balances the driver work load for various steering wheel inputs and vehicle loading conditions. Under extreme operating conditions the system locking device could engage. This strategy prevents overheating and permanent damage to the adaptive steering system. Typical steering and driving maneuvers allow the system to cool and return to normal operation.

Adaptive learning helps correct road irregularities and improves overall handling and steering. It communicates with the brake system to help operate advanced stability control and crash avoidance systems. Additionally, whenever the battery is disconnected or a new battery is installed, you must drive your vehicle a short distance before the system relearns the strategy and reactivates all systems.

STEERING – TROUBLESHOOTING

Steering – Warning Indicators

The adaptive steering system indicator illuminates if the system detects a fault during the

continuous diagnostic checks.

Note: If a red warning message displays, stop your vehicle as soon as it is safe to do so.

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