C0073 on 2013-2022 Ford Escape — Lateral Acceleration (Lateral G) Sensor Output Abnormal
1 vehicles · 1 makes · $100-$1,700 repair
How to diagnose and fix C0073: most-reported vehicles
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Ford Escape · 2013–2022
The 2013-2022 Escape uses an electric power steering (EPS) rack that can fail, causing heavy steering, intermittent loss of power assist, or a steering warning light. The EPS motor or torque sensor within the rack assembly can malfunction due to heat and electrical issues. When the system faults, the steering becomes extremely heavy and difficult to turn, especially at low speeds. This is a safety concern particularly during parking maneuvers.
Common Symptoms
- Steering becomes very heavy suddenly
- Power steering warning light on dashboard
- Steering assist intermittently cuts out
- Grinding or whining noise when turning
- Steering wheel off-center after restart
How to Fix
A software update may resolve intermittent EPS faults — have the dealer check for TSBs first. If the rack itself has failed, replacement is necessary. OEM rack costs $800-1,200; aftermarket remanufactured racks are $400-700. Labor is $300-500. Total repair: $700-1,700. Some owners have had success with cleaning the EPS motor connector and applying dielectric grease for intermittent failures.
Sources for this issue (1)
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C0073 code reference
General diagnostic-code context. The code alone does not confirm a cause for your vehicle; use the applicable issue card and its sources.
Frequently asked questions
What does C0073 mean?
C0073 stands for "Lateral Acceleration (Lateral G) Sensor Output Abnormal." This code relates to the lateral acceleration (lateral G) sensor, which measures sideways force on the vehicle and feeds data to the electronic stability control system. The control module detected an abnormal, out-of-range, or implausible output from this sensor. Because stability control uses lateral-G data to detect skidding and understeer/oversteer, the system may disable stability/traction control until the fault is resolved. Base braking is unaffected, but the vehicle loses its electronic skid-prevention assistance.
What are the most common causes of C0073?
The most common causes of C0073 are: Faulty lateral acceleration / yaw-rate sensor, Loose or improperly mounted sensor, Damaged sensor wiring or connector, Sensor not calibrated after suspension/alignment work, Corrosion or poor ground at the sensor, Internal sensor module failure, Software/calibration mismatch in the stability module. The specific cause varies by vehicle.
How much does it cost to fix C0073?
Repair costs for C0073 range from $100 to $1,700, depending on the vehicle and root cause.
Which vehicles are affected by C0073?
Au7o has documented C0073 across 1 vehicle models from 1 manufacturers: Ford.
Content compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, and owner reports. May contain errors. Always verify with your vehicle's service manual.