Parts for your 2017 Ford Fiesta-Steering rack

2017 Ford Fiesta Steering Rack — What it does and how to look after it

Based on the Ford Workshop Manual for Fiesta 2011–2017 (Section 211-02: Steering System), the 2017 Ford Fiesta is fitted with a rack-and-pinion steering gear, paired with Electric Power-Assisted Steering (EPAS). This is also backed by Ford’s service parts catalogues listing a steering rack assembly for 2017 Fiesta variants, and the Haynes Ford Fiesta 2008–2017 manual describing rack-and-pinion steering on this model range.

The steering rack on a 2017 Fiesta translates the driver’s steering wheel input into precise left–right movement to turn the front wheels via the tie rods. With EPAS, the system uses an electric motor to assist effort, keeping things light at parking speeds and nicely weighted on the motorway, while saving fuel compared with old-school hydraulic systems. It’s the heart of the car’s direct, nimble feel that Fiesta owners love.

There’s no fixed replacement interval for a steering rack, but it should be inspected during routine servicing—think every 20,000–30,000 kilometres or at each tyre rotation. Most ANZ-market 2017 Fiestas run EPAS, so there’s no power-steering fluid to change. Instead, the focus is on condition checks:

• Rack boots (gaiters): Look for splits or oil/grease contamination, torn boots let grit in and kill inner tie rods and rack bushes.
• Tie rods and ends: Check for play, cracked dust seals, or looseness that can cause vague steering or uneven tyre wear.
• Noises and feel: Notching, clunks over bumps, or a sticky self-centre can point to internal wear or bush issues.
• Alignment: If the car wanders or the wheel sits off-centre, a wheel alignment may be needed—sometimes after kerb strikes or potholes.

If a rack needs replacing, plan on a proper diagnosis first. A good workshop will confirm whether the fault is in the rack, the column, or the tie rods, then fit a quality new or remanufactured rack. Expect an alignment afterwards and, for EPAS-equipped cars, a steering angle/assist calibration with a scan tool. Subframe fasteners may be one-time-use on some variants—follow Ford’s torque-to-yield specs. Avoid driving long with symptoms, catching a torn boot early is far cheaper than a complete rack swap. With sound parts and correct setup, a Fiesta’s steering rack should deliver crisp, reliable steering for many years.

Popular questions about 2017 Ford Fiesta steering racks

Does a 2017 Fiesta have a steering rack or a steering box?
It has a rack-and-pinion steering rack with electric power assist (EPAS). This configuration is documented in the Ford Workshop Manual for the model years covering 2017 and in common service parts listings for the Fiesta.

How long should a Fiesta steering rack last?
With intact boots and no impact damage, a rack can last well beyond 150,000 km. Driving on rough roads, kerb hits, or leaking/damaged boots can shorten its life. Regular inspections during servicing help catch small issues before they snowball.

What’s involved in replacing the rack?
A technician will remove the old rack, transfer or fit tie rods as required, install the new unit to spec, then perform a wheel alignment. EPAS racks also require electronic calibration with a scan tool to ensure correct steering feel and assist.