What is the sticky steering issue on Honda?
In brief, the sticky steering issue on Honda refers to episodes where the steering feels heavy, stiff, or unresponsive, often at low speeds, due to faults in the electric power steering system or related steering components.
Across various Honda models and model years, drivers have reported moments of increased steering effort, intermittent loss of power assist, or a “sticking” sensation as the wheel turns. Honda has investigated these reports and, in some cases, issued recalls and service campaigns to repair or replace faulty components and restore consistent steering feel.
What causes sticky steering in Honda vehicles
Sticky steering can arise from several related problems in Honda’s steering and power-assist systems. Below are the common factors that have been associated with this issue:
- Faulty electric power steering (EPS) motor or controller, which can reduce or discontinue steering assist.
- Worn or sticky steering rack, column components, or linkage that increase resistance when turning.
- Hydraulic power steering failures or leaks in older models that still rely on hydraulic assist (less common in current lines, but historically relevant).
- Software calibration or sensor faults in the EPS control unit that misreads steering input or torque demand.
Diagnosing the exact cause requires a dealer diagnostic check, as the problem can manifest differently from one vehicle to another. Prompt investigation is important because steering performance is a critical safety factor.
Affected models and recall activity
Honda has issued recall campaigns and service notices related to steering and EPS across various models and regions. The scope has varied by market and model year, and owners should verify their vehicle’s status using official sources. The following notes provide a general sense of how the recalls have been structured:
- Recall campaigns have targeted several popular Honda models with EPS-related risk, including common passenger cars and SUVs, though the exact model-year ranges differ by country.
- Remedies typically involve replacement of the EPS motor or control module, software updates, and inspections of steering components.
- In some cases, campaigns address the potential for sudden loss of steering assist, which can increase steering effort and affect control, particularly at low speeds.
If you own a Honda, check for open recalls or service campaigns by entering your VIN on Honda’s recall site or the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) database for your region. Service may be performed at no charge under recall provisions.
What owners should do
Owners experiencing sticky steering should approach the issue proactively and prioritize safety. The steps below outline how to proceed, from immediate actions to getting a formal diagnosis.
- Safe driving first: If steering feels noticeably heavier or unpredictable, reduce speed, find a safe place to stop, and contact roadside assistance if needed.
- Look for warning indicators: EPS or steering-related warning lights on the dashboard should prompt prompt service.
- Check recall and service status: Use your VIN to search NHTSA.gov, Honda’s official recall site, or your regional consumer safety database to see if your vehicle is affected.
- Schedule a professional diagnosis: Bring the vehicle to an authorized Honda dealer or a qualified technician to perform EPS/steering diagnostics and inspect the rack, column, and electrical connections.
- Clarify remedies and coverage: If a recall or service campaign applies, or if there is a warranty extension, discuss the available repair options and timing with the service adviser.
Timely attention matters: issues with the power steering system are safety-critical, and a confirmed diagnosis can prevent further risk of tough steering or unexpected loss of assist.
Honda’s response and guidance
Honda reiterates a commitment to steering safety and ongoing monitoring of customer reports. The company advises customers to bring any steering concerns to an authorized dealer promptly, particularly if the vehicle is subject to a recall or service campaign. Where EPS-related faults are confirmed, repairs or replacements are performed under the applicable warranty or recall terms.
How to verify recall status and arrange service
To determine if a specific vehicle is affected and to arrange service, use the VIN-based recall lookup tools provided by Honda and by national safety authorities. Keep in mind that recall campaigns can be country-specific, and the remedies may include EPS module replacement, software updates, or component inspections.
Differences between stickiness and other steering issues
Not all instances of “sticky” steering are the same. Some involve temporary resistance at low speeds due to EPS calibration, while others may reflect mechanical wear of the steering rack or column. A professional diagnostic is essential to distinguish between electrical, software, and mechanical causes and to apply the correct fix.
Summary
The sticky steering issue in Honda vehicles describes episodes of heavy or unresponsive steering caused by faults in the electric (or occasionally hydraulic) power steering system and related components. It has prompted recalls and service campaigns across multiple models and years, with remedies ranging from software updates to EPS module or steering rack replacements. If you notice increased steering effort, warning lights, or odd steering behavior, check recalls with your VIN and consult a dealer promptly to ensure safe operation.
How to fix sticky power steering?
Thickened Power Steering Fluid Can't Flow as Easily
This is why you may notice a stiff steering wheel if your power steering fluid is dirty. Luckily, a simple power steering fluid replacement should help smooth out the motion of your steering wheel again.
Why does my steering wheel stick in a Honda?
Honda, which manufactures the Honda models and its luxury line – Acura, acknowledges that the Sticky Steering defect may be due to the manufacturing process of the steering gear box, which may cause internal stress resulting in the degradation of the gears inside, and possible lack of continuous gear lubrication.
Which Hondas are being recalled for steering issues?
The recalled models include the 2023-2025 Acura Integra, Civic Type R, CR-V hybrid, CR-V and HR-V; 2022-2025 Civic and Civic hatchback; 2024-2025 Acura Integra Type S; and 2025 CR-V Fuel Cell EV, Civic hybrid and hatchback hybrid.
What is the sticky steering wheel recall on Honda?
2024 Honda Sticky Steering Recall Affects 1.7 Million Vehicles. The issue stems from the steering gearbox worm wheel, which may have been improperly manufactured. During use, the worm wheel can swell, reducing the thickness of the grease film between it and the worm gear.
