If the wrench or power steering warning light has appeared on your Ford Focus instrument panel, it means a fault code has been triggered related to the electric power steering assist system. Don’t panic – in many cases, this fault can be cleared by disconnecting and reconnecting the battery. Resetting the code on your own can save time and a trip to the mechanic.
In this DIY guide, we’ll cover the straightforward process for resetting the power steering assist system fault in simple steps with images to help along the way.
Safety First When Working Near the Battery
Before beginning any work near the battery, be sure to take basic safety precautions. Wear protective eyewear and gloves, remove any jewelry or loose clothing, and avoid leaning over the battery. Be prepared to rinse with water if any battery acid makes contact with your eyes or skin.
Gather the Proper Tools
A basic toolkit is all you’ll need:
- Protective eyewear
- Gloves
- Wrench set
- Flashlight
Locate the Battery and Main Fuses
Your Ford Focus battery will be located in the engine bay, likely under a vented plastic cover. Consult your owner’s manual for the exact location if unsure.
The power steering assist system’s main fuse can usually be found in the main fuse box located under the hood. Check your fuse diagram or manual to locate it.
Inspect the Main Fuse
Before disconnecting the battery, check the condition of the power steering main fuse. Remove it and look closely for any breaks or damage. If faulty, replace it with an identical new fuse. If the main fuse is good, proceed to disconnect the battery.
Disconnect Both Battery Cables
Using your wrench set, fully loosen and disconnect the negative and positive battery cables. Avoid allowing the cable ends to touch together or any metal surfaces after being disconnected. Allow the vehicle to sit for approximately 15 minutes before reconnecting. This allows sufficient time for the vehicle computer to fully reset.
Reconnecting the Battery Cables
After 15 minutes, reconnect the positive cable first, ensuring a tight fit on the terminal. Followed by reconnecting the negative cable securely.
Start the ignition, but do not start the engine. The instrument panel and warning lights should cycle on and then off. The power steering fault may still be stored, but attempt to clear it by turning the steering wheel from lock to lock a few times.
Clear Any Remaining Codes With a Scanner
If the power steering warning light remains on after attempting to clear the code manually, you will need an OBD-II diagnostic scan tool. Connect the scan tool to your vehicle’s data link connector, usually located under the steering wheel near pedals. Follow menu prompts to scan, detect error codes, and clear.
Take a Test Drive
Before hitting the open roads, turn your steering wheel fully in both directions while stationary. Make sure the power assist is functioning properly. Proceed to drive slowly around the block, continuing to turn the wheel at slow speeds. If at any point the steering seems labored or warning lights activate, stop driving and continue troubleshooting, or take your vehicle to a professional mechanic.
Hopefully, your power steering assist system fault has been successfully cleared following these steps! Taking the time for a DIY reset can resolve many basic errors and save time and money over a trip to the shop.
Frequently Asked Questions
Still, have some questions about the process. Here are answers to a few common queries when resetting Ford Focus power steering faults:
Q – Will disconnecting the battery erase radio stations and dashboard settings?
A – Yes, expect to lose radio presets and settings like clock time when the battery is disconnected. Plan for some minor programming time when complete.
Q – Can I hurt anything by disconnecting the battery?
A – As long as precautions are taken, the reset process is harmless. Just be certain no cables touch metal or each other.
Q – What if the power steering fault persists?
A – Continue troubleshooting by inspecting the steering fluid level and pump belt condition. Or consult a professional for deeper diagnosis and repair.
Give this DIY fix a shot the next time your Ford Focus sets a power steering fault code. Respecting basic precautions during battery work, following outlined steps, and properly reconnecting terminals should have you cleared and back on the road.
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