NHTSA recall 18E024000 · Equipment
Steering › Electric power assist system
The defect
Robert Bosch Automotive Steering (Bosch) has submitted a Defect Information Report based upon decisions by Ford Motor Company and Tesla, Inc. to conduct recalls (No. 15V250 and No. 18V204, respectively) to replace the aluminum mounting bolts in Bosch-supplied Electric Power Steering (EPS) systems that can corrode after exposure to certain driving environments such as road salt.
The risk
If the aluminum bolts corrode, they may fracture, allowing the steering gear motor to detach and cause a reduction or loss of power steering assist, increasing the risk of a crash.
The remedy
Bosch is working with the affected vehicle manufacturers. Dealers for those manufacturers will replace the steering gear mounting bolts and add a corrosion-preventative sealer, free of charge. Ford owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 15S14. Tesla owners may contact Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752. Tesla's number for this recall is SB-18-32-002.