Five problems related to steering noise have been reported for the 2013 Ford Explorer. The most recently reported issues are listed below. Please also check out the statistics and reliability analysis of the 2013 Ford Explorer based on all problems reported for the 2013 Explorer.
The contact owns a 2013 Ford Explorer. While driving approximately 5 mph, a grinding noise was heard and the steering wheel seized. In addition, the "power steering service now" and advancetrac warning indicators illuminated. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic who determined that the steering rack failed and needed replacement. The vehicle was not taken to the dealer for diagnostic testing. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 140,000.
While driving steering became difficult and made noise while turning the steering wheel at 30 mph.
Loss of power steering. Started with a load grinding noise when turning the steering wheel. Within a couple of days, the problem worsened to the point of while driving, we lost steering control. An extremely dangerous situation. The current recall of this exact issue apparently does not apply to our VIN number. There are thousands of others with the same issue. The recall must be expanded to include more VIN numbers. Help!.
Started with a load grinding noise while turning the steering wheel in either direction. This problem has progressed to occasionally losing power steering. Like thousands of others, the current recall does not apply to my VIN, only models that were manufactured just a few months prior. This dangerous issue was not remedied on later models (2013, 2014 and even 2015's). Shame on Ford! they must be held accountable and extend the current recall of their faulty part to later Explorer models.
The vehicle began making rubbing/grinding noises when steered (both directions) in normal operation. This was accompanied by sluggish steering. At one point the warning lights indicated that the steering system required service "now!". Upon pulling over and stopping, the steering locked up, making the vehicle unable to drive. My Ford service tech advised that the steering gear box was "bad". They replaced the defective part at the expense (to me) of $1,700.