No. The 2014 Ford Escape uses electric power-assisted steering (EPAS) and does not require hydraulic power steering fluid.
In this model year, Ford adopted EPAS, which replaces the older hydraulic system with an electric motor to provide steering assist. This means there is no fluid reservoir to check, and most maintenance focuses on electrical components and software rather than fluid levels. The following explains how it works, what it means for maintenance, and what to do if steering issues arise.
How the EPAS system works on the 2014 Escape
Electric power-assisted steering relies on a motor mounted near the steering rack to provide assist based on signals from the steering wheel, vehicle speed sensors, and the steering control module. There is no hydraulic pump, hoses, or power-steering fluid to monitor. Instead, everything is powered by the car’s battery and controlled by software in the vehicle’s electronics.
Why there is no fluid in this system
The absence of a hydraulic path means you will not find a power steering fluid reservoir under the hood. Maintenance focuses on the electrical side—battery health, wiring, fuses, and software updates. If fluid leaks or contamination were to occur, it would signal an issue with a different system, not power steering.
Maintenance and diagnostic considerations
Because the system is electric rather than hydraulic, typical fluid checks are unnecessary. Instead, owners should monitor energy supply and software calibration, and watch for warning messages.
- Check for warning lights such as "Service EPAS" or "Power Steering Reduced" on the dash.
- Verify the 12-volt battery and charging system are healthy, since EPAS relies on stable electrical power.
- Keep electrical connections to the steering rack and motor clean and tight to prevent intermittent assist.
- Ensure software and calibration are up to date; dealer or qualified shop can perform diagnostic scans and updates.
Before listing common maintenance considerations, note that these are not about fluid but about ensuring reliable electronic assist:
Proper maintenance in an EPAS-equipped Escape focuses on electronics, battery health, and software calibration. Issues typically require diagnostic codes to identify problems with the motor, sensors, or control module rather than any fluid-related service.
What to do if you notice steering problems
If you experience unusual steering behavior, follow these steps to diagnose safely:
- Look for dash warnings like "Service EPAS" and note any abnormal steering feel.
- Have the vehicle scanned with an OBD-II tool capable of reading EPS codes to identify faults.
- Consult a Ford dealer or a shop with EPAS expertise for software updates, recalibration, or component replacement as indicated by diagnostics.
Because EPAS relies on software and the electrical system, professional diagnosis is often required to resolve issues effectively.
Summary
The 2014 Ford Escape uses electric power-assisted steering, which means there is no hydraulic power steering fluid to check or replace. Maintenance focuses on electrical systems, battery health, and software calibration. If steering feels off or a warning appears, pursue diagnostics rather than fluid-related fixes, since issues typically involve the EPAS motor, sensors, or control module.
Can you still drive if electric power steering goes out?
Technically, you can still drive with lost power steering, but it's not recommended. Without assistance, steering becomes much harder, especially at low speeds or during tight turns. Drivers who've lost power steering while driving often report sore arms and reduced vehicle control.
Where is the power steering reservoir on a 2013 Ford Escape?
Your vehicle is equipped with an electric power steering (EPS) system. There is no fluid reservoir to check or fill.
Does the Ford Escape use power steering fluid?
Your Ford Escape will be happy to know that the search for the right Power Steering Fluids you've been looking for is over! Advance Auto Parts has 7 different Power Steering Fluids for your vehicle, ready for shipping or in-store pick up.
Does a 2014 Ford Escape use power steering fluid?
S 2.5L 4 Cyl. Our research indicates that your vehicle has an electric power steering system ("EPS" or "EPAS"). These systems use an electric motor instead of a hydraulic system and therefore do not have any power steering fluid to leak.