Normal Operation

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2010 Mercury Milan, 2010 Lincoln MKZ, and 2010 Ford Fusion. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

The electric power assist steering (EPAS) gear is very susceptible to water, moisture, dust, rust and other contaminates. If a damaged boot is suspected the inner tie rods and steering rack should be inspected for contamination. If contamination is found a new EPAS gear should be installed.

New bellows boots and clamps must be installed whenever they are removed. To avoid unnecessary repairs address all other known concerns, DTCs and customer concerns before removing the bellows boots and inspecting the steering gear.

NOTE: When installing new bellows boots and clamps, apply new lubricant as instructed to prevent water contamination or damage may result to the EPAS gear. For complete information refer to the TIE ROD -- INNER .

K1: INSPECT THE INNER TIE RODS AND STEERING RACK FOR CORROSION

Remove the outer tie rod and bellows boot. Refer to TIE ROD -- INNER .

The following inspection must be carried out on BOTH sides of the steering rack:

Turn the steering wheel in one direction all the way until it stops to expose the steering rack.
Inspect the rack, inner tie rod and gear housing for rust, moisture, corrosion and other signs of harmful contamination.

Is the rack, inner tie rod and gear housing free of moisture, rust, corrosion and other harmful contamination?

Yes	No
INSTALL a new steering gear bellows boot(s). Refer to TIE ROD -- INNER . ADJUST the front toe setting. Refer to TOE ADJUSTMENT - FRONT .	INSTALL a new EPAS gear. Refer to STEERING GEAR -- 3.5L FRONT WHEEL DRIVE (FWD) , STEERING GEAR -- 3.5L ALL WHEEL DRIVE (AWD) or STEERING GEAR -- 2.5L NON-HYBRID AND 3.0L FRONT WHEEL DRIVE (FWD) .