2011-'13 Ford Taurus Among Vehicles Recalled for Potential Power-Steering Problem

DEARBORN, Michigan — Ford is recalling 422,814 vehicles in North America, including the 2011-'13 Ford Taurus and Ford Flex, for a potential problem with the electric power steering, the automaker said on Wednesday.

Other affected vehicles include the 2011-'13 Lincoln MKS and Lincoln MKT, 2011-'12 Ford Fusion and Lincoln MKZ and 2011 Mercury Milan.

The vehicles are being recalled "for a potential intermittent electrical connection in the steering gear that might result in the loss of electric power-steering assist while driving," Ford said in a statement. "If this happens, the steering system defaults to manual steering mode, making the vehicle more difficult to steer, especially at lower speeds. This could result in the increased risk of a crash."

Ford said it is aware of four minor accidents linked to the recall, but no injuries.

The majority of the recalled vehicles are in the U.S.

Ford spokeswoman Kelli Felker told Edmunds the recall begins on July 20.

Ford dealers will perform one of two services fixes, depending upon whether certain diagnostic trouble codes are present in the vehicle. They will either update software for the power steering control module or replace the steering gear.

Owners can contact Ford customer service at 1-800-392-3673.

No information about the recall has been posted on the Web site of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, which oversees vehicle safety in the U.S.

Edmunds says: It will take a couple of months for this recall to begin as Ford dealers wait for replacement parts. But if you have an immediate concern, it's best to contact your dealer now.