2016 Ford F-150 steering problems

Updated from NHTSA data · How we count

41 owners have reported steering problems with the 2016 Ford F-150, 3% of all complaints about this model year. The typical problem appeared around 76,640 mi.

Steering complaints
41
Crashes
1
Fires
0
Injuries
0
Related recalls
0
Median mileage
76,640 mi

Specific components reported

Steering covers: Power steering, steering column and wheel, loss of steering assist.

ComponentComplaints
Steering40
Steering:critical fasteners1
Steering: steering wheel/handle bar1

Steering complaints across Ford F-150 years

22005332007322009667201152692013843020154136201751202019104120219162023432025
Steering complaints by model year. The 2016 is highlighted.

Mileage when the problem appeared

Under 10k410k–30k530k–60k660k–100k5100k–150k1150k+
Complaints that list mileage, grouped by odometer reading.

Related recalls

No recalls on file.

What owners say

  1. Filed Sep 12, 2026TXSteering
    The vehicle experienced a sudden and unexpected loss of power steering assistance while being driven on a highway. The failure made the vehicle extremely difficult to steer and nearly caused an accident, creating a serious safety hazard. After pulling over to get off the highway, it was observed at lower speeds, the vehicle did not have its full range of steering also creating a safety hazard. The problem was confirmed by the dealer, who determined that the power steering…
    NHTSA complaint #11763788 · source
  2. Filed Aug 24, 2026INSteering
    "While operating my 2016 Ford F-150, the vehicle lost power-steering assist. Ray Skillman Ford diagnosed an internal failure of the power steering control module and replaced the steering gear assembly. The vehicle had approximately 94,620 miles. Sudden loss of steering assist significantly increased the effort required to steer the truck and created a safety concern. The repair cost me $3,804.27."
    NHTSA complaint #11759088 · source
  3. Filed Jun 4, 2026CAAcceleration & Cruise ControlSteering
    My 2016 Ford F-150 is currently subject to Recall 26S28 / NHTSA Recall 26V237. Prior to the recall remedy becoming available, the vehicle began experiencing erratic transmission shifting and illuminated the check engine light, wrench symbol, and codes P0720 and P0722 were present. I brought the vehicle to an authorized Ford dealership for diagnosis. The dealership documented that the vehicle was experiencing erratic shifting and was considered not drivable. The technician…
    NHTSA complaint #11742178 · source
  4. Filed Apr 7, 202681,000 miARTowedSteering
    The contact owns a 2016 Ford F-150. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the steering wheel seized, and the vehicle lost the power steering assist feature. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic, who replaced the electric power-assisted steering (EPAS) system. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 81,000.
    NHTSA complaint #11729633 · source
  5. Filed Feb 7, 2026MIElectrical SystemOther / UnknownSteering
    Our 2016 Ford F-150 experienced a sudden, forceful, uncommanded lane deviation while traveling at highway speed. Without warning or driver input, the vehicle abruptly jolted into the left lane. The steering was corrected and returned to our lane, but shortly afterward the truck again forcefully veered left. The movement felt comparable to being struck by another vehicle. There was no oncoming traffic at the time; however, had there been oncoming traffic, this would have…
    NHTSA complaint #11716506 · source
  6. Filed Feb 6, 2026TXSteering
    While driving vehicle between approximately 30-50mph and making a slight turn left or right and lane changes, vehicle steering would stick. Power steering would get stuck and driver would have to manually correct the steering wheel in the opposite direction after lane changes or slight turn to prevent further veering off of the vehicle. Only occurs when vehicle speed is approximately 30-50mph.
    NHTSA complaint #11716355 · source
  7. Filed Nov 14, 2025INAirbagsAcceleration & Cruise ControlSteering
    All push button controls on steering wheel are not functioning. Appears the Steering Wheel Clock Spring is going bad. Which in turn affects airbag, steering, cruise control ect.
    NHTSA complaint #11699449 · source
  8. Filed Aug 18, 2025NCBrakesSteeringTransmission & Drivetrain
    While driving today, my Ford F150 manual light came on while I was driving and then break assistance. Light came on, and it told me to check the brake system. And immediately immediately the truck slammed on the brakes while driving. I almost wrecked with my [XXX] daughter who is [XXX] in the vehicle. This needs to be fixed ASAP. This is very dangerous and could’ve been a lot worse this morning. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C.…
    NHTSA complaint #11681248 · source
  9. Filed Jul 21, 2025225,000 miWASteering
    The contact owns a 2016 Ford F-150. The contact stated that while attempting to start the vehicle, the power steering assist became inoperable. Several unknown warning lights were illuminated. The contact stated that an independent mechanic was contacted. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, where it was diagnosed, and it was determined that the steering rack and pinion needed to be replaced. The manufacturer was notified of the failure but offered no assistance…
    NHTSA complaint #11675168 · source
  10. Filed Apr 10, 2025SCAcceleration & Cruise ControlSteeringTransmission & Drivetrain
    I’m a single mother driving a 2016 Ford F-150, my only vehicle, while transporting small children daily. I’ve been experiencing sudden, violent shaking and unexpected downshifting while driving, especially at highway speeds. On more than one occasion, it has felt like the rear wheels try to lock, causing the entire truck to jolt and decelerate rapidly, putting my safety and the safety of my children at serious risk. I’ve taken the truck to the dealership and multiple…
    NHTSA complaint #11653978 · source
  11. Filed Jan 10, 2025103,000 miCTSteering
    The contact owns a 2016 Ford F-150. The contact stated while driving at slow speeds on several occasions, while making left or right turns, the steering wheel was shaking abnormally. The contact stated that the “Steering assist fault - Service Required" and "Traction - Steering Assist Failure” message was displayed on several occasions. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where it diagnosed and determined that the steering rack and module needed to be replaced.…
    NHTSA complaint #11635327 · source
  12. Filed Sep 13, 2024INSteering
    During highway driving at speeds of 70 mph the steering stiffens and while driving through curves I have to over correct because the steering wheel jerks to the left/right. On 9/12/24 while driving home from work at speeds of 35 mph the steering duplicated the issue and the Advance Trac service light came on along with Hill Assist disabled. This is a major safety concern. Furthermore this is the second F150 that I have experienced this issue. The first F150 was 2011 FX4 and…
    NHTSA complaint #11614392 · source

Other 2016 Ford F-150 problem areas

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Source: U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) Office of Defects Investigation public data. Complaints are submitted by owners and are not verified by NHTSA or by us; a complaint does not prove a defect exists. View this vehicle on NHTSA.gov Methodology