Three problems related to lose power steering have been reported for the 2009 Ford Escape Hybrid. The most recently reported issues are listed below. Please also check out the statistics and reliability analysis of the 2009 Ford Escape Hybrid based on all problems reported for the 2009 Escape Hybrid.
When driving in the mountains the power steering assist fault indicator came up and vehicle lost power steering completely.
Power steering failed while operating vehicle on public roads. I believe the falure was caused by a faulty steering torque sensor htat was the subject of Ford recall notice 14s05. The vehicle was serviced by dealer to address this recall and the dealer performed a "software update" to correct the issue. "the update allegedly would make sure the suvs wouldn't lose power steering while driving and would provide audio and visual warnings if problems occurred. If a driver received warnings, they were told to return the vehicle to the dealer. " the audio and visual alerts did not occur and the power steering system failed leaving only manual unassisted steering, making operation of the vehicle unsafe.
First occurrence driving at approx 45 miles per hour made a left turn into a parking lot and lost power steering. Was able to move to parking spot, turn off car then restarted and power steering was restored. Second incident was traveling at approx 50 miles per hour made a left turn, again lost power steering, was not able to stop car safely due to traffic and had to continue without power steering for approx 1 mile until I could safe stop the vehicle. Turned off car and restarted and power steering was restored.