I had a similar issue with a 93 taurus. Though mine went gradually, not all at once. It ended up being some module in the steering column. Sorry I do not have the specifics, I was not involved in the repair. I heard it was an easy swap though. Hope this helps a little.

-Adam- 2k Silver Frost #939 - 36K Miles H&R + Koni + Mirko + Elky Mesh + Hella Optilux + K&N + LoTek + Mille Miglia EVO 17" + ADC T-28 Turbo + Magnaflow 3" S.S. + exhaust leaks + CEL light + more to come...