Honda has issued a significant recall affecting almost 2 million vehicles in North America, highlighting a critical safety concern involving steering malfunctions. The recall impacts some of the most popular models in Honda’s lineup, including the Civic, CR-V, and the Acura Integra. Owners are advised to take this recall seriously, as the defect could increase the risk of a crash by making steering more difficult, especially at highway speeds.

What Models Are Affected?

The recall spans a wide range of Honda and Acura vehicles, with a focus on the 2022 to 2025 model years. These models include:

Honda Civic and Civic Type R
Honda CR-V
Honda HR-V
Acura Integra and Integra Type S

This recall covers approximately 1.7 million vehicles in the United States, 240,000 in Canada, and 58,000 in Mexico. It represents one of Honda’s largest recall efforts in recent years, and the issue has been under investigation by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) since March 2023. As complaints mounted, NHTSA upgraded the investigation in November.

The Steering Issue Explained

The core problem lies in the steering gearbox assembly, which was reportedly manufactured with a defect that increases friction within the system. Over time, this excessive internal friction could cause “sticky” steering, a term that describes difficulty turning the wheel smoothly. Drivers reported hearing unusual noises while steering or feeling an increase in steering effort, particularly during highway driving after traveling for an extended period.

Most worryingly, these complaints came in from owners of vehicles with low mileage, meaning the problem could surface early in the vehicle’s life. According to Honda, the defect stems from a part within the steering system that wasn’t manufactured to the correct specifications. This part can swell when exposed to heat and moisture, further aggravating the friction issue. Additionally, a spring within the assembly was improperly positioned, adding to the steering difficulties.

What Should Owners Do?

Honda plans to notify affected owners by mid-November, instructing them to visit their local dealership for a repair. The fix involves replacing the problematic gear spring with an improved part and adding grease to the steering assembly if necessary. While Honda has received over 10,000 warranty claims related to the defect since 2021, the automaker assures that the remedy will resolve the issue without cost to the owners.

If you drive one of the affected models, it’s essential to be vigilant about any changes in how your vehicle steers. If you experience any unusual stiffness or noises while turning the wheel, especially at highway speeds, contact your dealer immediately. Although Honda is moving swiftly to address the problem, staying proactive can help prevent any safety risks.

Recalls are a normal part of the automotive industry, and while it’s unfortunate, Honda’s commitment to resolving this issue should provide some reassurance to affected owners. The automaker has a long-standing reputation for building reliable vehicles, but even the best manufacturers can encounter unexpected challenges. By addressing the issue head-on, Honda aims to maintain trust with its customer base while ensuring safety on the road.