Parts for your 2017 Ford Kuga-Steering rack

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

Yes, a steering rack is absolutely used on the 2017 Ford Kuga. Ford’s Workshop Manual for the 2017 Kuga/Escape (Section 211-02 Steering System) specifies a rack-and-pinion Electric Power-Assisted Steering (EPAS) gear, and Ford dealer parts catalogues list complete steering gear (rack) assemblies for all 2017 Kuga variants. These technical references confirm the steering rack is a core component on this model.

The steering rack’s job is to turn the driver’s input at the wheel into precise movement at the front wheels. On the 2017 Kuga it’s an EPAS unit, so assistance comes from an electric motor and control module rather than hydraulic fluid. That design trims weight, improves fuel economy, and lets the car fine-tune steering feel with speed. The rack also houses inner tie rods, connects to outer tie rods, and works with the column torque sensor to keep the wheel centred and stable on Aussie and Kiwi roads.

While the EPAS rack is largely maintenance-free, regular checks during servicing make a big difference. Inspect rack boots (gaiters) for tears or water ingress, feel for free play at the wheels, and listen for clunks over bumps. Keep tyres correctly inflated, matched, and rotated so the rack isn’t fighting uneven wear. After any kerb strike or suspension work, a four-wheel alignment helps protect the rack and tie rods. There’s no power steering fluid to top up on EPAS, but an EPS warning light, heavy steering, or wandering on the motorway means it’s time for diagnosis with a proper scan tool.

• Common signs of rack wear: vague on-centre feel, knocking on turn-in, stiffness or notchiness, uneven tyre wear, and an illuminated steering or stability control light.
• Service tips: check boot condition, tie rod end play, subframe and rack mounting torque, and perform a road test on both smooth and rough surfaces.

If replacement is needed, choose a quality new or remanufactured rack suited to the exact Kuga variant. The job typically involves supporting or lowering the front subframe, renewing single-use bolts where specified, and fitting new tie rod ends. A steering angle/centre learn procedure with a Ford-capable scan tool (IDS/FDRS or equivalent) is essential, followed by a precise alignment. Battery support during any programming helps avoid voltage-related faults. Done right, the Kuga’s EPAS rack will deliver crisp, confident steering for many more kilometres.

Popular questions

What are the warning signs my 2017 Ford Kuga steering rack needs attention?
Tell-tales include a light clunk over bumps, heavier-than-normal steering, a tendency to wander, uneven front tyre wear, or a steering/ESP warning lamp. Torn rack boots or noticeable free play at the wheels during a service check also point to inner tie rod or rack wear.

Does the 2017 Kuga use power steering fluid?
No. It uses Electric Power-Assisted Steering (EPAS), which relies on an electric motor and control module. There’s no hydraulic fluid reservoir to check or top up. Any issues are diagnosed electronically and mechanically, not by looking for fluid leaks.

How much does a steering rack replacement cost in AU/NZ?
Ballpark fitted pricing often falls around AUD $1,400–$3,000 in Australia or NZD $1,600–$3,400 in New Zealand, depending on parts (new vs reman), labour time, alignment, and whether associated items like tie rod ends and subframe bolts are renewed. A firm quote after inspection is the smart move.