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2018 Ford Explorer V6 3.5L – Steering Wheel Adjustment Feature

By R&D
Published on May 20th, 2026

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In modern vehicles, the adjustable steering wheel is a key feature that enhances both comfort and control. The steering wheel adjustment in your 2018 Ford Explorer V6 3.5L lets you modify the steering wheel’s position to suit your preferred driving posture, improving accessibility to controls and optimizing visibility of the road and instrument cluster. This feature is especially valuable in a larger vehicle such as the Explorer, where precise positioning is essential for safe handling and visibility. Proper steering wheel adjustment can also reduce driver fatigue on long drives by supporting a more ergonomic position. This article provides a step-by-step guide on how to adjust the steering wheel in your 2018 Ford Explorer V6 3.5L.

Ford

Procedure

For vehicles with manual-adjustable Steering Column:

Warning: Do not adjust the steering wheel when your vehicle is moving.

Step 1: Locate the steering wheel adjustment lever, which is positioned under the steering column, just below the steering wheel. Unlock the steering column by pulling the lever down.

Step 2: Adjust the steering wheel to the desired position. You can either move the steering wheel up or down to find a comfortable tilt angle or pull the steering wheel closer or push it away to adjust the reach (telescope adjustment).

Adjust the steering wheel to the desired position.

Step 3: Once you've found the ideal position, push the lever back up to lock the steering wheel securely. Ensure that the steering wheel is fully locked by gently attempting to move it. It should remain firmly in place.

Once you've found the ideal position, push the lever back up to lock the steering wheel securely.

Note: Make sure that you are sitting in the appropriate position before adjusting the steering wheel.

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For vehicles with power-adjustable Steering Column:

Warning: Do not adjust the steering wheel when your vehicle is moving.

Step 1: Locate the power adjustment control for the steering column, usually positioned on the left side of the steering column or on the lower dashboard near the steering wheel.

Step 2: Use the power control to adjust the steering column position:

  • Tilt Adjustment: Press the top or bottom button of the control to tilt the steering wheel to the desired angle.
  • Telescoping Adjustment: Press the front or rear button of the control to move the wheel away or pull it back to bring it closer.
Use the power control to adjust the steering column position

Note: Make sure that you are sitting in the appropriate position before adjusting the steering wheel.

Steering column maximum traveling range reset

The steering column is designed to stop just short of its maximum position to prevent potential damage. If the column encounters an obstruction while tilting or telescoping, it automatically establishes a new stopping position.

To reset the steering column to its original stopping point:

Step 1: Verify that no objects are obstructing the steering column's movement.

Step 2: Press and hold the steering column control until it reaches the stopping point and ceases movement.

Step 3: Press the steering column control again.

Note: The steering column may initiate movement again.

Step 4: When the steering column stops, continue holding the control for a few seconds longer.

Step 5: Perform this reset in each direction as needed.

The new stopping position is now set. The steering column will stop just short of its maximum range during subsequent adjustments.

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