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HOMESERVICE MANUALSFORD2007ESCAPE BASE, 2.3 Z, FWD, AUTOMATICREPAIR AND DIAGNOSISSTEERINGPOWER STEERINGSTEERING SYSTEM - GENERAL INFORMATIONDIAGNOSTIC TESTSSTEERING SYSTEMINSPECTION AND VERIFICATIONNOTES
2007 Ford Escape Base, 2.3 Z, FWD, Automatic

Inspection and Verification: Notes

2007 Ford Escape Base, 2.3 Z, FWD, AutomaticSECTION Notes
  1. Verify the customer concern.
  2. Visually inspect for obvious signs of mechanical damage.
    VISUAL INSPECTION CHART

    Mechanical
    • Fluid level
    • Tire pressure
    • Tires
    • Drive belt
    • Drive belt tensioner
    • Steering column alignment
    • Tie-rod ends
    • Suspension components
    • Steering column shaft U-joints
    • Intermediate shaft bolts
    • Power steering reservoir baffle
    • Power steering reservoir screen
    • Power steering pressure lines, fittings or O-rings
    • Power steering return hoses and clamps
    • Steering gear
    • Power steering pump
    • Power steering pressure switch
  3. Inspect the power steering fluid for the following conditions:
    4. NOTE: It may be necessary to add power steering fluid to achieve the correct level.
  4. Check the fluid level and clean the power steering components.

    With the ignition OFF:

    • Check the power steering fluid level and add fluid as necessary.
    • Wipe off any visible signs of fluid or residue build up.
      • CAUTION: Do not hold the steering wheel at the stops for an extended amount of time. Damage to the power steering pump can occur.
    • Start the engine and turn the steering wheel from stop-to-stop several times.
  5. Visually inspect the power steering hydraulic line/hose connections for leaks.
    • If a leak is detected at a threaded fitting or clamp plate joint or banjo bolt fitting, tighten to specification. If the leak is still evident, visually inspect the O-rings, Teflon ®seals or banjo bolt washer seals. Install new O-rings, Teflon ®seals or banjo bolt washer seals as necessary. Refer to the appropriate Steering System article for the procedure.
    • If a leak is detected at a constant tension spring clamp, verify that the hose is not damaged and fully installed on the hose fitting. Make sure that the constant tension spring clamp is correctly positioned. If the leak remains, install a new constant tension spring clamp.
    • If a leak is detected at a screw clamp joint, verify that the hose is fully installed on the hose fitting before tightening the screw clamp. If the leak remains, install a new screw clamp. Refer to the appropriate Steering System article for the procedure.
    • If a leak is detected at the power steering pressure switch, install a new switch. Refer to the appropriate Engine article for the procedure.
  6. Visually inspect the power steering components for leaks.
    • If a leak is detected in the power steering pressure line or return hose, install a new hose. Refer to the appropriate Steering System article for the procedure.
    • If a leak is detected in the power steering pump, install a new power steering pump. Refer to the appropriate Steering System article for the procedure.
      • NOTE: On vehicles with rack and pinion steering gear, it may be necessary to remove the bellows boot clamp from the steering gear bellows boot to inspect for internal steering gear leaks.
    • If a leak is detected in the steering gear, install a new steering gear. Refer to the appropriate Steering System article for the procedure.
    • If a leak is detected in the power steering reservoir, install a new reservoir. Refer to the appropriate Steering System article for the procedure.
  7. For information on power steering leak detection, refer to Component Tests   .
  8. If an obvious cause for an observed or reported concern is found, correct the cause (if possible) before proceeding.
  9. If the cause is not visually evident, verify the symptom and Go to Symptom Chart .
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When to See a Mechanic

Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:

  • • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
  • • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
  • • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
  • • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
  • • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.