Parts for your 2017 Ford Escape-Steering rack

2017 Ford Escape steering rack — what it does and how to look after it

Yes, the 2017 Ford Escape is fitted with a steering rack. Ford’s own technical literature confirms this: the Ford Workshop Manual (2017 Escape/Kuga, Section 211‑00 Steering System) and the Ford Electronic Parts Catalogue specify an electric rack‑and‑pinion steering gear, commonly called EPAS (Electric Power‑Assisted Steering). So the steering rack is absolutely relevant to this model, it’s just electrically assisted rather than using hydraulic fluid.

What does it do? The steering rack converts the driver’s rotary input at the wheel into the side‑to‑side motion that turns the front wheels. On the 2017 Escape, an electric motor and control module (PSCM) add assist based on vehicle speed and steering load, which gives a light feel around town and more weight at highway pace. No power‑steering fluid, no pump, fewer leaks — tidy.

When servicing a 2017 Escape, a quick check of the steering rack and linked bits pays off. Routine inspection focuses on:

• Rack boots (gaiters) for splits, weeping, or debris build‑up
• Inner and outer tie‑rod ends for play or torn dust boots
• Mounting points and subframe hardware for looseness
• Steering feel and noises — clunks, knocks, or graunching over bumps

Because it’s EPAS, there’s no fluid to flush. If the dash shows “Steering Assist Fault” or the wheel feels heavy or inconsistent, a proper scan is the next step. A workshop with Ford‑capable diagnostics can read PSCM faults, check torque/angle sensor data, and update software where required.

Replacement is more involved than old‑school boxes. The front subframe typically needs to be lowered, single‑use bolts replaced, and a wheel alignment performed. After fitting a new or exchange rack, the technician should complete module setup (PMI/programming), steering centre/angle calibration, and a lock‑to‑lock learn. Battery support during programming is essential. Skipping these steps can leave the wheel off‑centre or the assist feel a bit odd.

Owners can help the rack live a long life by keeping tyres correctly inflated, avoiding hard curb strikes, and getting alignment checked after suspension work or pothole hits. Early signs like a slight knock, wandering on the motorway, or uneven tyre wear are worth attention before they snowball into a rack or tie‑rod replacement.

Popular questions about 2017 Ford Escape steering racks

Does the 2017 Ford Escape use a steering rack or a steering box?
It uses an electric rack‑and‑pinion steering rack (EPAS). This is documented in Ford’s 2017 Escape/Kuga Workshop Manual and parts catalogue, which specify an electric steering gear assembly rather than a hydraulic system.

Do you need a wheel alignment after replacing the steering rack?
Yes. Any time the rack or tie‑rods are disturbed, a full four‑wheel alignment is required. After installation, the technician should also complete steering angle calibration and module setup so the assist feels right and the wheel sits straight.

How long should a steering rack last on a 2017 Escape?
With normal use, many EPAS racks run well past 150,000–200,000 km. Lifespan depends on road conditions, tyre pressures, and avoiding curb hits. Regular checks of tie‑rods and boots help catch wear early and protect the rack.