Steering Gear Clatter Noise Over Bumps On Extremely Rough Road Surfaces – 2015-2019 Lincoln MKC

NHTSA ID Number: 10153940

Manufacturer Communication Number: TSB 18-2392

Summary

Some 2015-2019 MKC vehicles may exhibit an electronic power assist steering (EPAS) gear clatter-type noise over bumps that is only present on extremely rough road surfaces. Follow the Service Procedure steps to correct the condition.

 

5 Affected Products

Vehicle

LINCOLNeBay logoMKC2015-2019

 


Model:

LincolneBay logo

2015-2019 MKC

 

Issue: Some 2015-2019 MKC vehicles may exhibit an electronic power assist steering (EPAS) gear clatter-type noise over bumps that is only present on extremely rough road surfaces.

 

Action: Follow the Service Procedure steps to correct the condition.

 

Parts

DescriptionPart NumberQuantity
Steering Gear Assembly (Refer To The Parts Catalog For The VIN Specific Application)35041
Steering Coupling BoltW711137-S442eBay logo1
Stabilizer Bar NutW715135-S440
Ford W715-135S440, Suspension Stabilizer Bar Link Nut
3 Reviews
Ford W715-135S440, Suspension Stabilizer Bar Link Nut
  • Compatible with Parts Included: ONLY PART REFERENCE #6 ON THE DIAGRAM IS INCLUDED, Make: FordeBay logo LincolneBay logo MercuryeBay logo
  • Compatible with Model: EcoSport MustangeBay logo Escape Fiesta MKC Focus Mariner, Sku: -W715135-S440
  • Compatible with Manufacturer Part Number: -W715135-S440, Genuine Oem: Yes
  • Compatible with Universal Fitment: Direct Replacement, FordeBay logo
  • Manufacturer Warranty: 1 Year

Last update on 2026-07-02 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API


 

1
Tie Rod NutW520203-S442
Ford W520203-S442 - Nut Hex
  • Genuine FordeBay logo part that fits your specific vehicle
  • Outer Steering Tie Rod Nut
  • Part Number: W520203S442
  • Manufactured to meet specifications for fit, form, and function

Last update on 2026-07-02 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API


 

1
Lower Control/Knuckle NutW520415-S4421
Lower Control/Knuckle BoltW716075-S4421
Subframe Bracket BoltW713199-S4421
Steering Gear BoltsW714807-S9001
Spacer (Contact Technical Support To Order)MW790418-S9001
Motorcraft® Threadlock and SealerTA-25-BeBay logo1

 

Service Procedure

1. Attach Rotunda Wireless Chassis Ears or equivalent. While driving over extremely rough road surfaces, is a clatter-type noise present at the steering gear?

(1). Yes – proceed to Step 2.

(2). No – this article does not apply. Refer to Workshop Manual (WSM), Section 100-04 for normal diagnostics.

2. Was the vehicle built on or before 7-Dec-2015?

(1). Yes – replace the steering gear. Refer to WSM, Section 211-02. Proceed to Step 3.

(2). No – proceed to Step 3.

3. If the noise or clatter concerns in the front suspension are still present, proceed to diagnose according to the Workshop manual Section 204-00 Suspension System – General Information, Diagnostic and Testing. Check the following components in search of possible damage.

(1). Stabilizer Bar

  • Check its condition of the bushings and gaps.

(2). Suspension wishbone ball joints

(3). Electric Steering Rack

  • Check if the electric terminals on the steering rack for cracks in the housing or holes.
  • Check the torque on the steering terminals, if loose, tighten to 90 Nm (67lb-ft) (Figure 1)

Figure 1

Electric Steering Rack

4. Is the noise still present?

(1). NOTE: It is recommended that all noise concerns shall be evaluated with the customer to identify the type of noise and all the information that could help in diagnosing the probable cause.

(2). Yes – proceed to Step 5.

(3). No – repair is complete.

5. Is the noise present when driving straight at 10-50 km/h on rough roads but decrease when the steering wheel is turned?

(1). Yes – a spacer needs to be installed between the EPAS gear and the frame. Proceed to Step 6.

(2). No – this article does not apply. Refer to the WSM for normal diagnostics.

6. Remove the front frame and identify the center bolt which holds the EPAS gear. (Figure 2)

Figure 2

front frame

7. Remove and discard the central bolt which holds the EPAS gear. (Figure 3)

Figure 3

central bolt

8. Using a pry bar, move the steering mechanism upwards to allow the insertion of the spacer between the EPAS gear and the frame. Do not install more than one spacer. (Figure 4)

Figure 4

spacer

9. Install the bolt into the central fixing point in such a way that the spacer can be centered with the EPAS gear and the frame. (Figure 5)

Figure 5

Install the bolt into the central fixing point in such a way that the spacer can be centered

10. Tighten only the central bolt. (Figures 6 – 7)

(1). Step 1: Tighten to 110 Nm 82 (lb-ft)

(2). Step 2: Loosen 360°

(3). Step 3: Tighten to 56 Nm (42 lb-ft)

(4). Step 4: Tighten 180°

Figure 6

Tighten only the central bolt

Figure 7

Tighten only the central bolt

11. To reassemble, reverse the removal procedure.

12. Perform a wheel alignment.

13. Evaluate the vehicle with the spacer installed based on the customers concern with the following steps.

(1). Evaluate for noise while driving in a straight line at 10-50 km/h on an irregular surface, turning the steering wheel right or left.

(2). Return the steering wheel to the 12 o’clock position. Drive in a straight line (preferably on highways) for 10-15 minutes with minimal steering wheel movement.

(3). At the 12 o’clock position of the steering wheel, confirm that there is no unusual effort with small movements side to side while returning the steering wheel to the 12 o’clock position.


 


18-2392
21 December 2018

https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=10153940
https://static.nhtsa.gov/odi/tsbs/2018/MC-10153940-9999.pdf

 


 

Bestseller No. 1
LEXIVON Torque Wrench 1/2-Inch Drive Click 10~150 Ft-Lb/13.6~203.5 Nm (LX-183)
  • PRECISE & HIGH QUALITY - Manufactured in Taiwan, our torque wrench is engineered for superior precision. It ships pre-calibrated to +/- 4% accuracy, ensuring dependable results every time. Includes a calibration certificate with a trackable serial number for your assurance.
  • DURABLE - Built to last, featuring a reinforced ratchet gear head made from hardened, heat-treated Chrome Vanadium alloy steel for maximum strength and durability.
  • LONGEVITY - Protect your investment with our proprietary Electro-Black finish, providing advanced rust and corrosion resistance for extended tool life.
  • PERFORMANCE - Easily read and set torque levels with our patent-pending dual-range scale. The high-contrast, yellow-on-black markings are designed for easy visibility, even in low-light conditions.
  • OMFORT - Equipped with a reversible ratchet head that drives in both directions and measures torque in a clockwise direction. The ergonomic, knurled handle ensures a non-slip, comfortable grip, reducing hand fatigue.
SaleBestseller No. 2
DISEN 9PCS Click Torque Wrench Set 1/4' 3/8' 1/2' Drive 20-220 In.lb, 5-45 Ft.lb, 10-170 Ft.lb with 6 Adapters, ±3% Accuracy, 72-Tooth, Dual Scale, Storage Case for Bike, Motorcycle, Car, Truck Repair
351 Reviews
DISEN 9PCS Click Torque Wrench Set 1/4" 3/8" 1/2" Drive 20-220 In.lb, 5-45 Ft.lb, 10-170 Ft.lb with 6 Adapters, ±3% Accuracy, 72-Tooth, Dual Scale, Storage Case for Bike, Motorcycle, Car, Truck Repair
  • 【9-in-1 Torque Solution】Complete set includes 1/4", 3/8", and 1/2" drive click torque wrenches plus 6 essential adapters (extension bars, universal joint, drive adapters) securely stored in a sturdy portable case.
  • 【High Precision & Dual Scales】Factory-calibrated to ±3% accuracy with included certificate; features dual-range scales (1/4": 10-220 in.lb, 3/8": 5-45 ft.lb, 1/2": 10-170 ft.lb) for versatile application coverage.
  • 【Clear & Safe Audible Click】Upgraded loud "Click" sound provides a distinct, reliable signal (strong over 5 N.m, subtle under) when preset torque is reached, preventing overtightening and ensuring safety.
  • 【Smooth 72-Tooth Ratchet & Quick Release】Reversible 72-tooth ratchet head offers a low 5° arc swing for use in tight spaces and smooth operation in both directions. Quick-release button ensures secure socket changes.
  • 【Durable Construction & Wide Use】Hardened Cr-V steel ratchet heads and phosphated adapters resist wear; aerospace aluminum handles ensure lightweight strength and corrosion resistance. Ideal for precise torque on bikes, motorcycles, cars, trucks, wheels, and industrial applications. Backed by 24-month support.
SaleBestseller No. 3
1/4 3/8 1/2-inch Drive Click Torque Wrench, 8Pcs Torque Wrench Set 10-230in.lb, 5-50ft.lb, 10-180ft.lb with Adapters, ±3% Accuracy, 72-Tooth Dual Scale Torque Wrenches for Bike, Moto, Car Repair
  • 【8-in-1 Torque Wrench Set】 Includes 1/4, 3/8, 1/2 inch drive torque wrenches that meet your different needs. 5Pcs Adapter: 1/4"Extension bar(4''), 3/8"Extension bar(6''), 1/2"Extension bar(5''), 3/8" Universal Joint, 1/2" to 3/8" Adapter with a sturdy plastic case for storage and portability
  • 【Dual range scale & High Precision】 1/4 inch 10-230in.lb/1.1-26.0Nm with 1 in.lb micro-adjustment, 3/8 inch 5-50ft.lb/6.8-67.8Nm with 0.25 ft.lb micro-adjustment, 1/2 inch 10-180ft.lb/13.6-244.1Nm with 1 ft. lb micro-adjustment. Each wrench undergoes strict and specialized instrument testing before leaving the factory to ensure accuracy within ±3% and is provided with a formal calibration certificate
  • 【Safe & Reliable】 This torque wrench set has been upgraded to have a louder "Click" sound, ensuring a clear and stronger click sound when the torque value exceeds 5 Nm, subtler click at lower than 5 Nm. The distinct click sound indicates that the preset torque has been reached, signaling you to stop applying force
  • 【Releasable & Dual Direction】These torque wrenches has a quick release button with which accessories can easily be installed and removed, the accessories can grip and is not easy to fall down. With 72-tooth reversible ratchet head, it can be used in both clockwise and counterclockwise directions
  • 【High Quality and Durable】 The torque wrench ratchet head is made from hardened treated Cr-Mo Steel for longevity. Handle crafted from high-grade aerospace aluminum for durability, and corrosion resistance. All adapters are treated with phosphating, with stronger wear resistance and a longer lifespan
SaleBestseller No. 4
EPAuto 1/2-inch Drive Click Torque Wrench, 10-150 ft/lb, 13.6-203.5 N/m
23,468 Reviews
EPAuto 1/2-inch Drive Click Torque Wrench, 10-150 ft/lb, 13.6-203.5 N/m
  • Durable Ratchet Head: Made from Hardened treated Chrome Vanadium steel alloy (Cr-V) Corrosion-Retardant: Satin Finish. Made in Taiwan
  • Easy Storage: A sturdy plastic storage case is included. Non-Slip Grip: Knurled handle
  • Easy to Read: High Contrast & Dual Range Scale. Accurate: Pre-Calibrated to ± 4%
  • Accessories included: 1/2" Drive 5" long Extension Bar
  • Simple and Reliable: “Click” sound tells the preset torque value is reached. Stop applying force when you hear and feel it.
Bestseller No. 5
Hairich Torque Wrench, 1/2 Inch Drive Click Torque Wrench, Dual-direction Torque Wrenches 10-170.0ft.lb/13.60-230.5Nm, 72-tooth with Dual Range Scales, ±3% High Precision For Car
  • ±3% HIGH PRECISION AND COOL APPEARANCE: 1/2 inch drive torque wrench (10-170ft.-lb/13.6-230.5Nm)has a calibration error range of ±3%, high precision, and comes with a corresponding serial number, which is easy to trace the original data, and you can use it with confidence.Hairich torque wrench not only has superior quality but also has a superior appearance. The classic combination of black and red is fashionable and textured, allowing you to enjoy a visual feast during use.
  • PREMIUM MATERIAL AND DURABLE: Experience the ultimate durability and antiskid with the torque wrench. The main body of Hairich torque wrench set is made of chrome vanadium steel alloy, which is more strong and more durable. The head of the inch-pound torque wrench adopts a ratchet design with a reversing device to improve work efficiency. The square knurled handle is made of aluminum titanium alloy, which is ergonomic and comfortable to hold for long-time use.
  • DUAL SCALE AND QUICK SETTING: Laser Printed by dual-range(ft-lb and Nm). Our professional torque wrench is easy to read and provides direct unit conversion, When the set torque value is reached, the torque wrench will make an audible and felt click to remind you to stop applying force. Pull down the lock knob and hold it until the torque setting is completed. Release the hand, and the lock knob will automatically rebound back to lock the value.
  • ERGONOMIC DESIGN AND POWERFUL: Every design of our industrial torque wrench conforms to ergonomic, easy to handle.72-tooth ratchet, 5° ratcheting arc head, a quick-release button for easy loading and unloading, and an aluminum non-slip handle for excellent grip and control. A recent research review that, 72-tooth ratchets are very professional tooth ratchets, you just only rotate 5 degrees to finish it. Not easy to slip and wear, can be used in small spaces, and is more durable and powerful.
  • EASY OPERATION AND SAFETY: Thanks to its bidirectional drive ratchet head, our torque wrench can be measured both clockwise and counterclockwise. When the set torque value is reached, a "click" sound will remind you to stop applying force to prevent damage to the item due to excessive torque. Notice: At low Nm settings under 5 Nm the "click" sound can be too light to hear.

Last update on 2026-07-01 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API


 

This product presentation was made with AAWP plugin.

Leave a Comment

Share to...