2006 Hybrid Steering Issue? --Doesn't return to center
 

Hello,

I am considering purchasing an 06 Escape Hybrid with 47000 miles on it and I am not sure if the steering is normal.

When you turn the wheel to corner, it does not return to center on its own. You have to manually feed it back. It's super odd... my experience tells me to look at the ball joints, in which case this could be a huge bargaining chip for me as I can do that myself. But, I've done some reading about electric power steering and I can't figure out if this is a normal condition or not... or if it is a $1K+ issue to replace an entire high-tech steering column.

I know how much it can suck having random people popping into your forum and asking questions, but I have looked everywhere... can someone help?

Thanks.
Chris