Parts for your 2017 Ford Escape-Power steering pump

2017 Ford Escape power-steering-pump: not fitted, here’s why

For the 2017 Ford Escape, a traditional hydraulic power-steering pump isn’t fitted or used. Technical sources back this up: the 2017 Escape Owner’s Manual describes an Electric Power-Assisted Steering (EPAS) system that uses an electric motor rather than hydraulic fluid, the Ford Workshop/Service Manual for the 2017 Escape outlines an EPAS rack-and-pinion assembly with an electric assist motor and no hydraulic lines, and Ford’s genuine parts catalog lists an electric steering gear and control module for this model year, but no power-steering pump. So, a “2017‑ford‑escape/power‑steering‑pump” isn’t relevant because there isn’t one on the vehicle.

Ford moved the Escape (Kuga) to EPAS to cut parasitic drag from belt-driven pumps and improve real‑world fuel economy. It also lets the car vary steering assist by speed and driving conditions, and it integrates neatly with active safety and convenience tech like lane‑keeping and park-assist. With no pump, no reservoir, and no hoses, there’s less routine maintenance and fewer leak points.

What does that mean for servicing? There’s no power-steering fluid to check or flush. Instead, steering care focuses on electrical health and mechanical condition:

• Keep the battery and charging system in top nick—low voltage can reduce steering assist or trigger warnings.
• Scan the PSCM (Power Steering Control Module) for fault codes during scheduled services if any steering behaviour seems off.
• Inspect the steering rack boots, inner/outer tie rods, and front-end components, align the wheels if the Escape pulls or the tyres wear unevenly.
• If a “Steering assist fault – Service required” message appears, don’t ignore it—have the vehicle scanned and tested promptly.

If steering feels heavy, intermittent, or noisy, common culprits include low system voltage, a failing EPAS motor or torque sensor, wiring/connector issues, or wheel alignment and tyre problems. A workshop familiar with Ford EPAS can road test the car, check for software updates, and confirm whether the steering gear needs repair or replacement.

Popular questions about 2017 Ford Escape power-steering-pump

Does the 2017 Ford Escape have a power-steering pump?
No. It uses Electric Power-Assisted Steering (EPAS), which provides assist via an electric motor on the steering gear. There’s no hydraulic pump, no fluid reservoir, and no hoses.

Do I need to top up or flush power-steering fluid on a 2017 Escape?
No fluid service is required because the system is electric, not hydraulic. Routine steering care means checking battery/charging health, suspension and steering joints, wheel alignment, and scanning the steering module if any warnings or odd steering feel pops up.

What should I do if the steering feels heavy or shows “Steering assist fault”?
Get the battery and alternator tested first, then have a scan for steering fault codes. Issues can stem from low voltage, wiring/connectors, or a fault in the EPAS rack (motor/torque sensor). A technician can diagnose and advise on repair or rack replacement if needed.