FAULTBASE
NEWSASKCars
© 2025 FAULTBASE
All rights reserved.
v2.0.0 • Production
ContactPrivacyImpressum
Home/Cars/Ford/F-150/12th Generation (2009-2014)/how to fix steering issues after alignment in Ford F-150 12th Generation (2009-2014)

how to fix steering issues after alignment in Ford F-150 12th Generation (2009-2014)

Ford F-150 12th Generation (2009-2014)

Severity: highDifficulty: medium2-4 hours
3 min read
522 words

⚠️ Safety Warning

This issue requires immediate attention. If you are not experienced with automotive repairs, consult a professional mechanic. Working on critical systems can be dangerous.

Problem Statement

Learn how to diagnose and fix steering issues after alignment in Ford F-150 (2009-2014). Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repair instructions.

Component
Steering
Repair Time
2-4 hours

Safety Warnings

  • ⚠Always ensure the vehicle is securely lifted and supported before working underneath.
  • ⚠Disconnect the battery if working on electronic steering systems to prevent accidental activation.

Symptoms

  • •Steering wheel pulls to one side while driving
  • •Steering wheel is off-center when driving straight
  • •Uneven tire wear patterns on the front tires
  • •Vibration in the steering wheel at certain speeds
  • •Difficulty in returning the steering wheel to center after a turn

Diagnostic Steps

  1. 1Inspect tire pressure in all four tires to ensure they are within manufacturer specifications.
  2. 2Check the alignment settings using an alignment machine to verify they are within the recommended range.
  3. 3Examine suspension components for wear or damage, including tie rods, ball joints, and control arms.
  4. 4Inspect the steering linkage for any signs of wear or looseness.
  5. 5Test drive the vehicle to confirm the presence of symptoms and gather additional information about how the vehicle behaves.

Solution

Solution

1. Preparation

  • Gather necessary tools and parts.
  • Ensure the vehicle is on a level surface and securely lifted using jack stands.
  • Tools Required: Jack and jack stands, socket set, torque wrench, alignment tool.

2. Check Tire Pressure

  • Use a tire pressure gauge to check each tire's pressure.
    • Inflate or deflate tires to the recommended pressure as per the owner's manual.

3. Adjust Alignment

  • If alignment settings are off:
    • Loosen the adjustment bolts on the control arms and tie rods.
    • Re-align the wheels using an alignment machine, ensuring the camber, caster, and toe are set to manufacturer's specifications.
    • Torque all bolts to specified values (usually around 50-80 ft-lbs, but confirm with the service manual).

4. Inspect and Replace Worn Components

  • Inspect suspension components:
    • Check tie rods for play by moving them side to side.
    • Replace any worn tie rods or ball joints as necessary.
  • Tools Required: Socket set, torque wrench, replacement parts as needed.

5. Check Steering Linkage

  • Inspect the steering linkage for looseness or damage.
    • Tighten any loose connections and replace worn parts.
  • Tools Required: Socket set, pliers.

Verification

After completing the repair, verify that the issue has been resolved:

  • Test the affected component to ensure it functions correctly
  • Check for any error codes or warning lights
  • Monitor the vehicle for a few days to ensure the issue does not recur

Prevention Tips

To prevent this issue from occurring again:

  • •Follow the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule
  • •Address warning signs early before they develop into major issues
  • •Use quality parts and fluids recommended for your vehicle
  • •Keep detailed records of all repairs and maintenance

Tools & Equipment Required

  • Tire pressure gauge
  • Alignment machine
  • Socket set
  • Torque wrench
  • Jack and jack stands

Parts Required

  • Tie rods (if worn)
  • Ball joints (if worn)
  • Alignment shims (if needed)

Additional Information

Component

Steering

Repair Time

2-4 hours

Difficulty

medium

Severity

high

Tools

5 items

Parts

3 items

Related Faults

Discover similar issues

  1. my Ford F-150 12th Generation (2009-2014) has excessive oil consumption, why?

    Learn how to diagnose and fix excessive oil consumption in Ford F-150 12th Generation (2009-2014). Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and r...

    Component:Engine
    Symptoms
    • •Oil level dropping rapidly between oil changes
    • •Blue smoke from the exhaust during acceleration
    • +{count} more
  2. my Ford F-150 12th Generation (2009-2014) transmission fluid smells burnt, what now?

    Learn how to diagnose and fix burnt transmission fluid issues in Ford F-150 12th Generation (2009-2014). Step-by-step guide with symptoms and solution...

    Component:Transmission
    Symptoms
    • •Burnt smell from transmission fluid
    • •Slipping or delayed shifting during gear changes
    • +{count} more
  3. my Ford F-150 12th Generation (2009-2014) shakes when braking, is it safe to drive?

    Learn how to diagnose and fix brake shaking in Ford F-150 12th Generation (2009-2014). Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repair instru...

    Component:Brakes
    Symptoms
    • •Vehicle shakes or vibrates during braking
    • •Pulsation felt through the brake pedal
    • +{count} more
  4. why does my Ford F-150 12th Generation (2009-2014) keep throwing P0301 code

    P0301

    Learn how to diagnose and fix P0301 cylinder 1 misfire in Ford F-150 12th Generation. Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repair instruc...

    Component:Engine
    Symptoms
    • •Check engine light illuminated
    • •Rough idle or engine shaking
    • +{count} more
  5. my Ford F-150 12th Generation (2009-2014) has engine light and no power

    Learn to diagnose and fix engine light and power loss issues in Ford F-150 (2009-2014). Step-by-step guide with diagnostic steps and repair instructio...

    Component:Engine
    Symptoms
    • •Check engine light illuminated
    • •Significant loss of power during acceleration
    • +{count} more
  6. my Ford F-150 12th Generation (2009-2014) feels like it has no power going uphill

    Diagnose and fix loss of power when driving uphill in Ford F-150 12th Generation. Step-by-step guide with symptoms, diagnostic steps, and repair instr...

    Component:Engine
    Symptoms
    • •Check engine light illuminated
    • •Engine stalling or hesitation during acceleration
    • +{count} more

Share this solution

Comments

Sign in to share your thoughts

Sign In

No comments yet

Be the first to share your thoughts

Back to Generation