C0051 on Ford: How to Diagnose & Fix
Steering Wheel Position Sensor
1 Ford model · 1 documented issue · 1 critical · $1,200-$3,500 repair
C0051 on Ford by model: symptoms, diagnosis and fix
NHTSA recall 15V340 covers 2011-2012 Ford Fusion without the 3.5L engine (plus Lincoln MKZ Hybrid and 2011 Mercury Milan). A steering motor sensor fault can cause the electric power steering assist to shut down while driving. Owners notice heavier steering effort especially at low speeds, increasing crash risk. Dealers check the Power Steering Control Module (PSCM) for DTCs; if any loss-of-assist codes are stored, the steering gear is replaced free. 2010 Fusions had the same parts but were not included in the recall; NHTSA closed its investigation without adding 2010 models. 2010 owners can see the same symptoms, but those cars are not covered by the recall.
Common Symptoms
- Power steering warning message on dashboard
- Steering becomes heavy or requires extra force
- Intermittent loss of power steering assist
- Steering wheel off-center after loss of assist
- Clunking or grinding from steering column area
- Complete loss of power steering (requires significant force to turn)
- Steering assist comes and goes unpredictably
- Check engine light or power steering fault code stored
How to Fix
Check if your vehicle is covered under Ford recall (2011-2012 Fusion/MKZ power steering failure recall - free repair). For non-recall vehicles, the electric power steering rack must be replaced as a complete unit since the motor and control electronics are integrated. RepairPal estimates $1,958-3,362 installed. Remanufactured racks from PWR Steer or Cardone are available at $800-1,500, significantly cheaper than new OEM ($2,000+). Have the alignment performed after rack replacement.
Sources for this issue (1)
C0051 code reference
General diagnostic-code context. The code alone does not confirm a cause for your vehicle; use the applicable issue card and its sources.
Frequently asked questions
What does C0051 mean on a Ford?
C0051 stands for "Steering Wheel Position Sensor." C0051 is a chassis code meaning the ABS/stability control module has detected a fault with the steering wheel position (steering angle) sensor signal. The stability system compares the driver's steering angle with yaw rate and wheel speeds; when the steering angle signal is missing, implausible, out of calibration or doesn't agree with how the vehicle is moving, the module sets this code and typically disables stability and traction control, with warning lights on. Normal braking and steering remain. On Ford it is documented across 1 model: Fusion.
What are the most common causes of C0051?
The most common causes of C0051 are: Faulty steering wheel position / steering angle sensor, Steering angle sensor not calibrated after an alignment, steering or column repair, Wheel alignment off-center (steering wheel not straight when driving straight), Wiring or connector fault in the sensor circuit or loss of network communication with the sensor, Internal fault or software issue in the ABS/stability control or power steering module that supplies the steering angle signal, Implausible wheel-speed data (e.g. heavy wheel slip in sand) causing a plausibility fault. The specific cause varies by vehicle.
How much does it cost to fix C0051 on a Ford?
Published repair estimates on Ford range from $1,200 to $3,500 depending on the model and root cause. If an issue mentions a recall or campaign, check your VIN with the manufacturer or NHTSA and confirm eligibility and coverage with a dealer.
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Content compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, and owner reports. May contain errors. Always verify with your vehicle's service manual.