Lincoln Aviator: Driving Aids / Steering

Electric Power Steering

WARNING: The electric power steering system has diagnostic checks that continuously monitor the system. If a fault is detected, a message displays in the information display. Stop your vehicle as soon as it is safe to do so. Switch the ignition off. After at least 10 seconds, switch the ignition on and watch the information display for a steering system warning message. If a steering system warning message returns, have the system checked as soon as possible.

WARNING: If the system detects an error, you may not feel a difference in the steering, however a serious condition may exist. Have your vehicle checked as soon as possible. Failure to do so may result in loss of steering control.

Your vehicle has an electric power steering system. There is no fluid reservoir and therefore requires no maintenance.

If your vehicle loses electrical power when you are driving, electric power steering assistance is lost. The steering system still operates and you can manually steer your vehicle. Manually steering your vehicle requires more effort.

Extreme continuous steering could increase the effort you need to steer your vehicle. This increased effort prevents overheating and permanent damage to the steering system. You do not lose the ability to manually steer your vehicle. Typical steering and driving maneuvers allow the system to cool and operate as normal.

Steering Tips

If the steering wanders or pulls, check for:

• Correct tire pressures.
• Uneven tire wear.
• Loose or worn suspension components.
• Loose or worn steering components.
• Improper vehicle alignment.

Note: A high crown in the road or high crosswinds could also make the steering seem to wander or pull.

Adaptive Learning

The electronic power steering system adaptive learning improves overall handling and steering on roads with irregularities. It communicates with the brake system to help operate advanced stability control and accident avoidance systems. When you install a new battery or disconnect the battery, you need to drive your vehicle a short distance so it can relearn and reactivate all systems.