Subject: Pop/Clunk Noise on Turns
Vehicle Involved: 2008-2010 Ford Escape and Mercury Mariner built on or before 6/11/2010.
Condition: Some 2008-2010 Escape and Mariner vehicles built on or before 6/11/2010 may exhibit a pop or clunk noise from the steering column area while turning. This noise typically occurs quarter turn before the steering column reaches its end of travel stop and typically goes away with weight off the wheels.
Repair Procedure:
FAILURE TO PERFORM STEERING WHEEL POSITION SENSOR CALIBRATION PROCEDURE, AFTER STEERING COLUMN REPLACEMENT, MAY RESULT IN STEERING COLUMN NOISE ON TURNS.
Verify noise is coming from steering column and/or steering shaft area and occurs before steering wheel reaches its end of travel stop.
If noise is only present when the steering wheel contacts end of travel stop, it is a normal characteristic of the vehicle and this procedure does not apply.
Replace both the steering shaft and steering shaft coupling u-joint per Service Manual.
Torque the steering column coupling-to-steering column shaft bolt to 52 lb-ft (70 N.m).
Tech Tip courtesy of Raybestos Brake & Chassis.
