Parts for your 2013 Ford Escape-Steering rack

2013 Ford Escape steering rack: what it does and how to look after it

Yes, the 2013 Ford Escape uses a steering rack. Specifically, it’s an electric rack-and-pinion unit as part of Ford’s Electric Power-Assisted Steering (EPAS). This is laid out in the Ford Workshop Manual for the 2013 Escape (Steering System, Section 211) and noted in the Owner’s Manual under EPAS. Various Ford technical service publications and safety communications also reference the EPAS rack-and-pinion gear on this model year, so the part is definitely relevant to the vehicle.

The steering rack’s job is to turn the driver’s rotation at the wheel into side-to-side movement of the front wheels. On the 2013 Escape, an electric motor built into the rack provides the assist, so there’s no hydraulic pump or fluid. That makes it lighter, more efficient and quieter, and it integrates neatly with driver-assist systems.

Because it’s EPAS, there’s no power-steering fluid to check or change, which simplifies servicing. Still, the rack benefits from regular inspections. A good service routine for a 2013 Escape should include checking the rack boots for tears, feeling for play in the inner and outer tie rods, listening for clunks over bumps, and confirming the vehicle tracks straight with even tyre wear. Keeping the battery and charging system healthy also matters, because EPAS assist relies on stable voltage.

• Common signs it’s time to investigate the steering rack:
  • Intermittent heavy steering or an EPS warning light on the dash
  • Knocking or clunking from the front when turning or over bumps
  • Excess free play, vagueness on centre, or wandering
  • Torn rack boots or excessive grease around the tie rods
  • Uneven tyre wear even after correct pressures

If replacement is required, the job typically involves lowering the front subframe, transferring any brackets, torquing subframe fasteners to spec, and then carrying out a four-wheel alignment. The EPAS rack may require initialisation, a steering-angle relearn and, depending on build, programmable module installation (PMI) via a scan tool—procedures covered in the Ford Workshop Manual. It’s smart to use genuine or high-quality remanufactured racks and new subframe/stretch bolts where specified.

Not every steering issue means a new rack. If only the tie rod ends are worn, they can be replaced separately. But if there’s internal lash, a failed motor/torque sensor, cracked housing, or water ingress, a complete rack is the safe fix. As part of routine servicing, ask for a steering and suspension check every 15,000 km and book an alignment annually or after any suspension work or big pothole hits.

• Does the 2013 Ford Escape have power steering fluid?
  No. It uses Electric Power-Assisted Steering, so there’s no hydraulic pump or fluid to top up. If someone spots a “steering fluid leak”, it’s likely engine oil, transmission fluid, brake fluid, or grease from a torn rack boot rather than power steering fluid.
• How long should a steering rack last on a 2013 Escape?
  Many go well past 150,000 km, often much longer, especially with good tyres, correct alignment, and intact rack boots. Harsh roads, impacts, or water ingress can shorten life, so periodic inspections pay off.
• Do you need an alignment after replacing the steering rack?
  Absolutely. Any time the rack or tie rods are disturbed, a four-wheel alignment is essential. After fitting an EPAS rack, a steering-angle relearn or initialisation with a scan tool is also recommended.