2017 Ford F-150 Steering Pull or Wander: Causes & Cost

Steering pull or wander — cost 2017 Ford F-150

Is your 2017 Ford F-150 constantly drifting off course, requiring you to make continuous steering corrections just to drive in a straight line? This frustrating issue, often described as a steering pull or wander — cost 2017 Ford F-150 owners frequently inquire about, can make driving tiresome and even unsafe. It means your truck isn't tracking straight without input, forcing you to "fight" the steering wheel constantly. Understanding the underlying causes is the first step to restoring your F-150's predictable handling.

What drivers notice on this 2017 Ford F-150

Owners of the 2017 Ford F-150 experiencing a steering pull or wander often report a distinct set of sensations. The truck might feel "loose" or "vague" in its steering, as if there's a delay between your steering input and the vehicle's response. On long drives, this constant micro-correction can lead to driver fatigue. You might find yourself gripping the wheel tighter, anticipating the next drift, rather than enjoying a smooth, stable ride. This behavior is more than just an annoyance; it's a clear signal that something in your steering or suspension system needs attention.

At a glance: difficulty, repair cost, and diagnostic workflow

• Difficulty Rating: 8/10 — Moderate to advanced
• Common Symptoms: Vehicle drifts left or right: The most prominent symptom, where the truck veers without direct steering input.; Requires constant steering correction: You're always adjusting the wheel to maintain a straight path.; Loose or vague steering feel: The steering wheel might have excessive play before the wheels respond.; Uneven tire wear: Look for feathering (one side of the tread block worn more than the other), cupping (scalloped wear),
• Estimated Repair Cost: $200–$1,800 (parts + typical shop labor)
• OEM Tooling Required: Standard OBD-II scanner and hand tools

Diagnostic workflow:

1. Confirm the symptom on your vehicle.
2. Scan for stored or pending codes with an OBD-II tool.
3. Inspect the most common causes in this guide (visual checks first).
4. Run verification tests before replacing parts.
5. Repair, clear codes, and verify on a test drive.

Symptoms and warning signs

Beyond the obvious sensation of the truck not tracking straight, several other symptoms can accompany a steering pull or wander:

• Vehicle drifts left or right: The most prominent symptom, where the truck veers without direct steering input.
• Requires constant steering correction: You're always adjusting the wheel to maintain a straight path.
• Loose or vague steering feel: The steering wheel might have excessive play before the wheels respond.
• Uneven tire wear: Look for feathering (one side of the tread block worn more than the other), cupping (scalloped wear), or excessive wear on one edge of the tire.
• Steering wheel not centered: When driving straight, the steering wheel might be off-center.
• Vibrations through the steering wheel: Especially at certain speeds, indicating wheel balance or suspension issues.
• Clunking, rattling, or popping noises: Sounds from the front end, particularly over bumps or when turning, suggesting worn suspension or steering components.
• Difficulty returning to center: After making a turn, the steering wheel doesn't naturally return to the straight-ahead position.

How to verify and confirm the issue

Verifying a steering pull or wander on your 2017 F-150 involves a combination of practical driving tests and visual inspections:

• Road Test on a Flat Surface: Find a safe, level, and straight road. Briefly and safely release the steering wheel (while maintaining control) to observe if the truck consistently drifts to one side. Repeat this at different speeds (e.g., 30 mph and 60 mph) to see if the pull changes. Note if the pull is constant or intermittent.
• Tire Inspection: Visually inspect all four tires for abnormal wear patterns, punctures, or bulges. Check and adjust tire pressures to the manufacturer's specifications (found on the door jamb sticker). Uneven pressure, mismatched tires, or significant wear differences between tires can cause a pull.
• Front End Visual Check: With the truck safely supported on jack stands, inspect visible steering and suspension components. Look for:
  • Worn Ball Joints: Try to move the wheel up and down and side to side, feeling for play.
  • Damaged Tie Rod Ends: Check for looseness or torn boots.
  • Cracked or Deteriorated Bushings: Inspect control arm bushings and sway bar bushings for signs of wear.
  • Leaking Struts/Shocks: Look for fluid leaks or damage to the strut bodies.
• Steering System Play: Have a helper gently rock the steering wheel back and forth (engine off, wheels on ground) while you observe the steering linkage. Look for any excessive play or movement in tie rod ends, the steering rack, or the intermediate shaft before the wheels begin to turn.
• Professional Wheel Alignment: The most definitive verification. A reputable shop can put your F-150 on an alignment rack to measure toe, camber, and caster angles. Even if components aren't visibly worn, incorrect alignment is a primary cause of pulls and wanders. A printout will show "before" and "after" readings, clearly identifying any out-of-spec angles.
• Brake Drag Check: After a drive, carefully feel the temperature of your wheels. If one wheel is significantly hotter than the others, it could indicate a sticking brake caliper causing a pull to that side.

Common causes (most likely first)

Pinpointing the exact cause of a steering pull or wander on your 2017 F-150 requires systematic diagnosis, but these are the most common culprits:

• Tire-related issues: Uneven tire pressure, mismatched tires (different brands, sizes, or tread depths), internal tire belt separation, or uneven tire wear patterns.
• Wheel alignment problems: Incorrect toe, camber, or caster angles. Toe is the most common cause of pulls, while caster often influences wander or steering returnability.
• Worn or damaged suspension components: This includes ball joints, control arm bushings, strut assemblies (worn shocks or springs), or wheel bearings.
• Worn or loose steering components: Inner or outer tie rod ends, steering rack bushings, or the intermediate steering shaft can develop play.
• Bent or damaged wheels: An impact can bend a wheel, affecting its rolling characteristics.
• Brake drag: A sticking brake caliper on one side can cause a constant pull in that direction.
• Electronic Power Assisted Steering (EPAS) system issues: While less common for a simple mechanical pull, issues with the EPAS motor, torque sensor, or control module could lead to inconsistent steering feel or wander. This might be accompanied by a warning light or specific diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) readable with a scan tool for Ford vehicles.

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Step-by-step diagnosis and fixes

Addressing a steering pull or wander on your F-150 typically follows a logical progression:

1. Check and Adjust Tire Pressure: Ensure all tires are inflated to the recommended pressure. This is the simplest and often overlooked first step.
2. Inspect Tires for Wear and Damage: Look for obvious signs of damage, uneven wear, or foreign objects. Consider rotating tires to see if the pull changes sides or disappears.
3. Visual Inspection of Suspension and Steering: With the truck on a lift or jack stands, meticulously check all components mentioned in the "How to verify" section. Look for torn boots, excessive play, rust, or damage.
4. Check for Brake Drag: Lift each wheel and try to spin it by hand. If one wheel is significantly harder to turn, investigate the brake caliper and pads on that side.
5. Professional Wheel Alignment: If no obvious mechanical issues are found, or after replacing any worn components, a four-wheel alignment is essential. Ensure the technician has the correct specifications for your 2017 F-150.
6. Address EPAS System (if suspected): If all mechanical and tire-related issues are ruled out, and you suspect an EPAS problem, a diagnostic scan for codes related to the power steering module (PSCM) is necessary. This often requires specialized diagnostic equipment for calibration or module replacement.

Repair options and cost factors

The cost to fix a steering pull or wander on your 2017 Ford F-150 varies widely depending on the root cause. Here are common repair options and cost factors:

• Tire-related fixes: Adjusting pressure (free), tire rotation ($20-$50), tire replacement ($150-$300+ per tire).
• Wheel alignment: Typically $100-$200 for a four-wheel alignment.
• Suspension component replacement:
  • Ball joints: $200-$500 per side (parts and labor).
  • Control arm bushings/control arms: $300-$800 per side, depending on if just bushings or the whole arm is replaced.
  • Strut replacement: $400-$800 per axle (parts and labor).
• Steering component replacement:
  • Tie rod ends (inner/outer): $150-$400 per side (parts and labor).
  • Steering rack bushings: $100-$300 (parts and labor, if available separately).
  • Steering rack replacement: $1000-$2500+ (parts and labor), one of the more expensive repairs.
• Brake service: Caliper replacement ($200-$400 per wheel), rotor resurfacing/replacement ($100-$250 per wheel).
• EPAS system repair: Can range from a sensor replacement ($300-$700) to a full steering rack with integrated EPAS motor ($1500-$3000+), often requiring specialized programming.

Cost factors include: The specific parts needed (OEM vs. aftermarket), regional labor rates, the complexity of the repair, and whether additional components are found to be worn during diagnosis. For more detailed information on various repairs, you can explore our comprehensive repair guides.

When to see a professional

While some basic checks like tire pressure and visual inspections can be done at home, it's highly recommended to see a professional technician if:

• You cannot identify the cause after basic troubleshooting.
• You suspect worn suspension or steering components that require specialized tools for inspection or replacement.
• A professional wheel alignment is needed.
• You suspect an issue with the Electronic Power Assisted Steering (EPAS) system, which often requires specialized diagnostic equipment and calibration.
• You lack the experience or tools to safely perform the necessary repairs. Addressing steering issues promptly is critical for safety.

Frequently asked questions

Can a simple tire issue cause my 2017 F-150 to pull?

Yes, absolutely. Uneven tire pressure, mismatched tires, or internal tire belt separation are common and often overlooked causes of a steering pull. Always start by checking and adjusting your tire pressures to the recommended specifications and inspecting for any visible tire damage or abnormal wear.

How often should a 2017 Ford F-150's alignment be checked?

It's generally recommended to have your F-150's alignment checked annually or every 12,000 to 15,000 miles. You should also get an alignment after replacing any steering or suspension components, after hitting a significant pothole or curb, or if you notice any signs of uneven tire wear or steering problems like a pull or wander.

Is a steering pull always an expensive repair on an F-150?

Not necessarily. While some causes, like a full steering rack replacement, can be costly, many steering pull issues are resolved with less expensive fixes such as a tire rotation, wheel balancing, or a professional wheel alignment. The key is accurate diagnosis to avoid unnecessary and potentially expensive repairs. For common issues across different models, you can browse vehicles on our site.

Sources and further reading

• Ford F-150 Owner's Manual
• Automotive service manuals and technical service bulletins (TSBs)
• Professional automotive diagnostic and repair resources

This article is intended for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for OEM service procedures; always use a qualified technician for safety-critical work.

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