Ford Ka Quiz
Driver assistance

Steering

In this manual: Driver assistance
Introduction — 6Quick guide — 3Child safety — 6Seat belts — 5Supplemental restraint system — 7Keys and remote controls — 3MyKey — 4Doors and locks — 3Safety — 3Steering wheel — 4Washer/wipers — 4Lighting — 6Windows and mirrors — 3Instrument cluster — 4Information display — 4Climate control system — 6Seats — 8Auxiliary Power Outlets — 1Storage Compartments — 1Starting the engine — 7Fuel and refuelling — 7Transmission — 1Brakes — 4Traction control — 1Stability control — 1Ultrasonic parking system — 3Cruise Control — 1Driver assistance — 4Carrying a load — 3Towing — 8Driving tips — 5Emergency equipment — 6Fuses — 4Maintenance — 22Vehicle Maintenance — 6Wheels and Tyres — 14Technical specifications — 7Audio system — 18SYNC — 12Appendices — 3
~2min read
Electric power steering

DANGER

The electric power steering system has diagnostic controls that continuously monitor the system. If a fault is detected, a message appears in the information display. Stop the vehicle as soon as it is safe to do so. Switch off the ignition. After at least 10 seconds, switch on the ignition and check whether a steering system warning message is displayed in the information display. If a steering system warning message reappears, have the system checked as soon as possible.

If the system detects a fault, there may be no noticeable change in steering, but a serious condition may still exist. Have the vehicle checked as soon as possible. Otherwise, you could lose steering control.

Note: Your vehicle is fitted with electric power steering. There is no fluid reservoir to check or top up.

The electric power steering is driven by an electric motor that reduces the force required to turn the steering wheel.

The system works progressively and during manoeuvres, reducing the force needed to turn the steering wheel. As vehicle speed increases, the power steering reduces its assistance to improve vehicle control.

If the vehicle loses electric power assistance while driving (or if the ignition is switched off), it is still possible to steer manually, although more effort is required. Continuous steering to the end of lock can increase the effort required to steer. This happens to prevent internal overheating and permanent damage to the steering system. If this situation occurs, you can still steer manually without causing permanent damage. Normal steering and driving manoeuvres allow the system to cool down and power assistance to return to normal.

Steering tips

Avoid sudden steering wheel movements. The force needed to change the vehicle's direction is lower than in a vehicle with mechanical steering.

If the steering is uncontrollable or pulls, carry out the following checks:

  • Tyre pressures
  • Uneven tyre wear
  • Loose or worn suspension components
  • Loose or worn steering components
  • Incorrect vehicle alignment
Even large road bumps or strong crosswinds may give the impression that the steering is uncontrollable or pulls.

Test yourself

A quick Ford Ka quiz: every answer comes with an explanation and a link to the manual page.