U0131 on Ford: How to Diagnose & Fix
Lost Communication with Power Steering Module
7 Ford models · 7 documented issues · 7 critical · $300-$3,700 repair
U0131 on Ford by model: symptoms, diagnosis and fix
NHTSA recall 15V340 covers 2011-2013 Ford Fusion (and Lincoln MKZ) without the 3.5L engine. An intermittent electrical connection in the steering gear can cause sudden loss of electric power steering assist while driving. Owners notice heavier steering effort especially at low speeds, increasing crash risk. Dealers check the Power Steering Control Module (PSCM) for DTCs; if any loss-of-assist codes are stored, the steering gear is replaced free. Note: 2010 Fusions had the same parts but were excluded from the recall — feds closed the probe without expanding scope. 2010-owner symptoms are real but uncovered by recall.
Common Symptoms
- Power steering warning message on dashboard
- Steering becomes heavy or requires extra force
- Intermittent loss of power steering assist
- Steering wheel off-center after loss of assist
- Clunking or grinding from steering column area
- Complete loss of power steering (requires significant force to turn)
- Steering assist comes and goes unpredictably
- Check engine light or power steering fault code stored
How to Fix
Check if your vehicle is covered under Ford recall (2011-2012 Fusion/MKZ power steering failure recall - free repair). For non-recall vehicles, the electric power steering rack must be replaced as a complete unit since the motor and control electronics are integrated. RepairPal estimates $1,958-3,362 installed. Remanufactured racks from PWR Steer or Cardone are available at $800-1,500, significantly cheaper than new OEM ($2,000+). Have the alignment performed after rack replacement.
Sources for this issue (1)
An intermittent connection in the electric power steering gear can cause the electric power steering assist system to shut down unexpectedly while driving. This results in significantly increased steering effort required, which can be dangerous especially at low speeds during parking maneuvers or in emergency situations.
Common Symptoms
- Power steering warning light illuminated
- Grinding or rubbing noise from steering
- Sudden loss of power steering assist
- Steering becomes very heavy/difficult to turn
- Intermittent power steering operation
How to Fix
Replace electric power steering gear assembly. Steering control module reprogramming. Check and repair wiring connections to steering gear.
Sources for this issue (2)
The 2009-2013 Ford Flex uses an electric power steering system that is prone to sudden failure, leaving the driver with extremely heavy steering that requires significant effort to turn. The power steering control module can overheat or fail internally, and the steering motor itself can burn out. The failure often occurs without warning, typically during low-speed maneuvers like parking lot turns. This was one of the top NHTSA complaint categories for the Flex.
Common Symptoms
- Steering suddenly becomes very heavy and difficult to turn
- Power steering warning light illuminates on dashboard
- Steering assist intermittently cuts in and out
- Grinding or whining noise from the steering column
- Steering feels normal at highway speed but fails at low speed
How to Fix
Have the power steering control module and motor tested at a Ford dealer or independent shop with Ford-specific scan tools. The steering column assembly with motor costs $400-$800 for the part, plus $300-$500 labor. Some owners have had success with aftermarket rebuilt units for $200-$400. Ford issued a TSB with a software update that can help in some cases — ask the dealer to check for applicable TSBs.
Call to confirm they can assess your vehicle and perform the stated work. Search results do not confirm qualification, eligibility or coverage.
Sources for this issue (1)
The 12th-gen F-150 uses a belt/column electric power-assist steering (EPAS) system that replaced the old hydraulic pump. Owners report the dash lighting up with a 'Power Steering Assist Fault — Service Now' or wrench warning, after which the assist cuts out and the wheel becomes very heavy, often at low speed in parking lots or during a turn. The failure is usually an intermittent electrical connection or a failed torque/steering-angle sensor or the EPAS motor buried in the rack, sometimes triggered by low battery voltage or a software calibration fault. While the F-150 was not part of Ford's large 2011-2013 sedan EPAS recall (423k Flex/Taurus/MKS), the truck shares the failure mode and it is heavily reported on owner forums.
Common Symptoms
- 'Power Steering Assist Fault' or wrench warning on dash
- Steering wheel suddenly very heavy / hard to turn
- Intermittent loss of assist, often at low speed or when turning
- Fault clears after restart then returns
- Whining or clunk from steering when assist drops
How to Fix
Scan for EPAS/steering DTCs and check battery voltage and the C-connector at the steering gear first (a poor connection or low voltage can trip the fault without a bad rack). Reflash the PSCM with the latest Ford calibration if applicable. If the motor or internal sensor has failed, the fix is a complete steering rack/gear assembly replacement (motor is non-serviceable). Always verify charging system health before condemning the rack.
Sources for this issue (1)
The electric brake vacuum pump can fail, resulting in a hard brake pedal and reduced braking assist. This is critical in the hybrid system since the engine is frequently off and vacuum assist is electric.
Common Symptoms
- Hard brake pedal
- Brake warning light
- Poor braking performance
- Pedal requires excessive force
How to Fix
Replace the electric brake vacuum pump. Check vacuum lines for leaks as well.
Sources for this issue (1)
The Transit Connect uses an electric power steering (EPAS) system with a column-mounted assist motor that is prone to failure between 60,000-100,000 miles. Symptoms range from intermittent loss of power assist to complete failure requiring significant steering effort. The steering warning light illuminates and the system may enter a reduced-assist mode. Failures are more common in vehicles used for delivery routes with frequent low-speed turning.
Common Symptoms
- Power steering warning light on dashboard
- Intermittent heavy steering, especially at low speeds
- Complete loss of power steering assist
- Steering assist cuts in and out randomly
- Whining or grinding noise from steering column area
How to Fix
Replace the electric power steering motor/torque sensor assembly. Ford part DT1Z-3504-C covers most model years. The steering column does not need removal in most cases — the motor unbolt from the column. After replacement, a steering angle sensor calibration must be performed with a Ford IDS or compatible scan tool. Used/remanufactured EPAS motors from reputable rebuilders can save 40-60% over new OEM.
Sources for this issue (1)
U0131 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 U0131 mean on a Ford?
U0131 stands for "Lost Communication with Power Steering Module." This is a network communication code meaning the vehicle's computers have lost communication with the power steering control module over the data bus (CAN). Modern cars link control modules so they can share data, and this code sets when other modules stop receiving expected messages from the power steering unit. The most common result is loss or reduction of power-assisted steering, making the wheel feel heavy, along with a warning light. It generally points to a wiring/connector or power problem at the steering module, a bus fault, or a failed module rather than a mechanical steering issue. On Ford it is documented across 7 models: Fusion, Explorer, Flex, F-150, C-Max, Transit Connect, Focus.
What are the most common causes of U0131?
The most common causes of U0131 are: Loss of power or ground to the power steering module, Open or shorted CAN bus wiring to the module, Corroded or loose connector at the steering module, Blown fuse feeding the power steering system, Failed power steering control module, Other module or wiring fault disrupting the data bus, Software/configuration mismatch after a repair. The specific cause varies by vehicle.
How much does it cost to fix U0131 on a Ford?
Published repair estimates on Ford range from $300 to $3,700 depending on the model and root cause. If an issue mentions a recall or campaign, check your VIN with the manufacturer or NHTSA and confirm eligibility and coverage with a dealer.
Looking for U0131 on a different make?
View U0131 across all makes →Content compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, and owner reports. May contain errors. Always verify with your vehicle's service manual.