Lack of Assist, Intermittent or Inconsistent Assist

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2019 Ford Fusion. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

NOTE: There are multiple conditions (overheating protection, high voltage, low voltage, etc.) which result in limited or reduced assist from the EPAS system. Address all existing PSCM DTCs prior to diagnosing any assist symptoms.
NOTE: For some low voltage conditions the message center may display: STEERING ASSIST FAULT SERVICE REQUIRED. This does not indicate a concern with the PSCM if only U3003 is present. The status of the 12-volt battery should be evaluated.
NOTE: If the steering wheel is held at the end of travel for more than 2 seconds, the PSCM noticeably reduces assist to the EPAS gear. This is a normal condition programmed into the PSCM to protect the system from permanent damage.
Lack of assist or inconsistent assist is experienced when the steering wheel effort is higher than normal. Hard steering can remain constant through the full turn or occur near the end of a turn. Intermittent assist is experienced when the steering wheel effort is normal, then high, then normal, intermittently, causing a notchy steering feel.
If equipped, active park assist can only be activated if the steering system is providing full steering assist. If the active park assist system is currently in use and the steering system experiences a partial or non-assist event, active park assist is deactivated.
If equipped, the lane departure warning system can only be activated if the steering system is providing full steering assist. If the lane departure warning system is currently in use and the steering system experiences a partial-assist or non-assist event, lane departure warning is deactivated.

Possible Source	Action
Fuse(s) 12-volt battery Wiring, terminals or connectors Suspension components EPAS gear internal failure Loose, damaged or worn inner or outer tie rods	GO to PINPOINT TEST AF