Hydraulic power steering uses 90 more of the engine s power and resources than electric power steering.
Electric vs hydraulic steering reddit.
Electric power steering uses the electricity off the alternator so it isn t as big of a drag on the engine.
My 2008 mariner ford escape s twin has an issue with the electric power steering as well.
The z offers a bit more feedback than the g but it s still nowhere compared with bmw and porsche.
Despite the name electric power steering does not require nearly as much power to perform the same function.
I wouldn t call the hydraulic steering good.
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However many people dislike the numb feeling.
With all that wear and tear on the engine it is going to shorten its lifespan considerably.
It costs so much because they have to replace the whole steering column.
While some newer systems are greatly improved the vast majority still feel numb compared to decent hydraulic ones.
No power drain at all when not turning the wheel and reduced drain otherwise which increases engine efficiency and no fluid to leak get dirty and or overheat.
Ford will not recall it but they will charge you 1 200 to fix it.
In any event a valve senses the torque the driver applies to the wheel and sends hydraulic fluid one way or the other turning the wheels assisting the direct link.
The difference is in how hydraulic vs electric works.
Hydraulic is cheaper and gives a better feel but is driven by the serpentine belt on your engine which acts as a drag on the engine.
This improves fuel efficiency.