Parts for your 2017 Ford Everest-Steering rack

2017 Ford Everest Steering Rack: What It Does, How It Wears, and When to Replace It

Technical sources confirm the 2017 Ford Everest is fitted with a steering rack. The Ford Workshop Manual for Everest (2015–2018, Section 211-02: Steering System – Rack and Pinion, Electric Power Steering) and the Ford Electronic Parts Catalogue list an electric power-assisted rack-and-pinion assembly (with inner/outer tie-rod ends and rack boots). Platform commonality with the Ranger PXII, which also uses EPAS, backs this up. So yes—this model absolutely uses a steering rack.

The steering rack’s job is to turn steering wheel input into precise side-to-side movement of the tie rods, pointing the front wheels exactly where the driver wants. On the 2017 Everest it’s an EPAS unit (Electric Power Assisted Steering), which means assistance comes from an electric motor on the rack rather than hydraulic fluid. That keeps it lighter, more efficient, and sharp to respond on-road while still behaving nicely off the beaten track.

There’s no scheduled replacement for the rack, but it pays to give it a look every service. Ask the workshop to check for torn rack boots, any free play in the inner tie rods, movement at the rack mounts, and unusual noises over corrugations. Because it’s electric, there’s no fluid to top up—so any assist warning on the dash or sudden heavy steering needs scanning for fault codes rather than a fluid check. After water crossings or dusty 4x4 trips, a quick inspection of the boots and clamps is smart.

• Clunks, knocks, or a loose feel over bumps
• Uneven tyre wear or the car drifting off line
• Steering wheel off-centre after impacts or off-roading
• Power steering warning message or intermittent assist

If the rack or inner tie rods are worn, go for OE or quality remanufactured parts. Replacement typically involves supporting or lowering the front subframe, then a wheel alignment, steering angle calibration, and a PSCM/EPAS learn procedure using Ford IDS/FDRS or equivalent. It’s crucial the rack is centred on install, mount bolts are torqued correctly, and single‑use subframe bolts (if removed) are renewed. Battery health matters too, as EPAS relies on stable voltage.

For Australia and New Zealand, supplied-and-fitted costs for an EPAS rack can sit roughly in the AUD/NZD 1,500–3,000 range depending on brand and labour. A post-repair alignment is non‑negotiable, and it’s wise to recheck it after suspension lifts, larger tyres, or a hard hit to a rim.

Does the 2017 Everest use a steering rack or a steering box?

It uses a rack-and-pinion unit with electric power assist (EPAS). This is documented in the Ford Workshop Manual (Steering, Rack and Pinion – EPAS) and supported by Ford’s parts listings for the 2017 Everest.

How long should a steering rack last on a 2017 Everest?

With straight wheels, good tyres, and no big hits off-road, many racks last well past 150,000 km. Harsh impacts, torn boots letting in grit, or neglected alignments can shorten that. If there’s play, noise, or a steering warning, get it checked promptly.

Do I need an alignment and calibration after replacing the rack?

Yes. A precise wheel alignment plus steering angle sensor/EPAS learns are required. Skipping these can leave the wheel off-centre, cause assist faults, or lead to rapid tyre wear.