SMAX Steering Problems

I have a Ford SMAX too, though I'm not sure what year it is exactly, but I had similar issues a while back. Stiff steering, especially at low speeds, and some vibrations. It does sound like a sensor failure. Could be the steering angle sensor. These modern cars are full of automotive sensors; it's a pain when one goes haywire. Wheel alignment problems can come from issues in the steering column so could be related. Was the effort required when steering always increased, or did it start suddenly?

Thanks for the reply! The increased effort when steering started suddenly, it wasn't gradual at all. One day it was fine, the next it felt like I was driving a tank! The vibrating/shaking steering wheel appeared at the same time as the increased steering effort. Since it seems like you had similar symptoms, did replacing the sensor fix the wheel alignment or was additional realignment needed?

Yeah, that sudden change sounds even more like the sensor. For me, replacing the steering angle sensor sorted everything out; I didn't need a separate wheel alignment. But honestly, best bet is to get it checked at a workshop. They can diagnose it properly and recode the new sensor if needed. Will cost around 195€ for the repair, according to the car shop.

Thanks a bunch for the help! I took it to a local mechanic, and you were spot on. The diagnostic confirmed it was the steering angle sensor and the coding was faulty. They replaced it, and now the steering is back to normal. Apparently, that sorted out the vibrations too, so all good! Glad I didn't try to fix it myself, that would have been a disaster. So relieved it's finally fixed.