The difference is in how hydraulic vs electric works.
Electric vs hydraulic steering reddit.
Electric power steering uses the electricity off the alternator so it isn t as big of a drag on the engine.
Good old hydraulic steering electric is usually numb.
Hydraulic is cheaper and gives a better feel but is driven by the serpentine belt on your engine which acts as a drag on the engine.
No power drain at all when not turning the wheel and reduced drain otherwise which increases engine efficiency and no fluid to leak get dirty and or overheat.
Despite the name electric power steering does not require nearly as much power to perform the same function.
It costs so much because they have to replace the whole steering column.
In hydraulic systems the pump pressurizes fluid which goes to either a pitman arm box or a hydraulic piston or something.
While some newer systems are greatly improved the vast majority still feel numb compared to decent hydraulic ones.
Hydraulic power steering uses 90 more of the engine s power and resources than electric power steering.
This improves fuel efficiency.
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With all that wear and tear on the engine it is going to shorten its lifespan considerably.
The z offers a bit more feedback than the g but it s still nowhere compared with bmw and porsche.
Ford will not recall it but they will charge you 1 200 to fix it.
It is the most common problem with the vehicle.
I wouldn t call the hydraulic steering good.