Power steering

2006 FORD FIVE HUNDRED
75,000 MILES • 6 CYL • AWD • AUTOMATIC
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JACKIE SAFKO
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  • 3 POSTS
Power steering went out, warning message was check charging system. Power steering fluid is full. replaced power steering system three years ago. What is wrong?
Aug 2, 2017 at 3:44 PM
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CARADIODOC
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  • 34,308 POSTS
Sounds like the drive belt broke. That runs the power steering pump and the generator.
Aug 2, 2017 at 4:08 PM
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JACKIE SAFKO
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  • 3 POSTS
Thank you. is this an easy fix or do I have to take it to the dealership?
Aug 2, 2017 at 5:09 PM
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CARADIODOC
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Replacing that belt is a common maintenance issue. It is real easy on some cars, and a nightmare on others. My concern is it is not common for them to break. Usually something else happens like an idler pulley develops worn bearings, and that lets that pulley wobble or tilt. Anything that prevents the belt from running true and centered on the pulley will cause it to pop off or become shredded. Examining the belt will tell what type of failure to look for.
Aug 2, 2017 at 7:06 PM
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JACKIE SAFKO
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  • 3 POSTS
Thank you, loved your responsiveness!
Aug 2, 2017 at 8:34 PM
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CARADIODOC
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Sometimes we can take almost a day to reply, so do not panic if you do not hear back right away. Please post a followup to tell us what the fix was, or if you have more questions.
Aug 2, 2017 at 10:02 PM