2018 Honda Civic complaints

The steering wheel is very sticky/notchy at highway speeds. Makes steering difficult especially with minor adjustments. Very unsafe as it can stick and cause you to drift if you’re not on top of the steering or even overcompensate

My vehicle has a jerk in the electronic power steering. The exact same year make and model vehicles already have a verified recall. I understand my vin number says my vehicle isn’t affected. But it’s having the exact same issue and its exact same year make and model. I do not have the 170.00 dollars to get it diagnosed and Honda is saying they will not upfront cover the cost the diagnose the exact same issue the other same year make and models are already verified to be having and have already been recalled.

The contact owns a 2018 Honda Civic. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the steering wheel was sticky, making the vehicle difficult to maneuver. There was no warning light illuminated. Upon investigation, the contact discovered NHTSA Campaign Number: 18V663000 (Steering); however, the vehicle was not included in the recall. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and confirmed that the VIN was not included in the recall. The contact was also informed that there was a TSB on certain model vehicles related to the same failure; however, the vehicle was not included. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 44,000.

Have the dangerous sticky steering while traveling down the road where steering wheel needs to be “broke free” to make minor corrections. Aware that there is a recall on certain years and models of the Honda’s for the electronic steering rack recall replacement, it isn’t covered on other select years. Honda has diagnosed yet another vehicle not covered by this recall (mine) and is now wanting me to pay $4500 out of pocket for a new steering rack

We got notified of the recall by mail in early 2024. We called the Honda dealership in our locality, First Texas Honda (3400 Steck Ave, Austin, TX 78757) about it and they said the parts weren't available yet, and was estimated to be ready by Fall 2024. In July 2024, we were driving on a highway and the accelerator stalled as we reached 80 mph, with the check engine light flashing. Cars around us had to swoosh left and right to avoid colliding with our stalled car. By extreme luck we were able to use the car's momentum to safely exit the highway. Upon restarting the car, power was restored and the check engine light didn't illuminate again. There was slight shuddering in low gears. We made an appointment at the same First Texas Honda mentioned above to fix the problem, but after inspection they insisted that the problem was caused by loose battery cable unrelated to the fuel pump recall. Charged us $225 for the inspection and denied to replace the recalled part. Their predatory practice should be illegal and we are so disappointed in the system.

Passenger seat dings and interior light comes on when making a left turn. It sounds like the seat belt alert even when the passengers and driver have their seat belts on. It also happens when rhe passenger shifts their weight. This is a distraction while driving.

I own a 2018 Honda Civic. On August 4, 2025, I brought the vehicle to Honda of Greenbelt in Maryland for a fuel pump replacement required by a service recall. Immediately after this repair, the vehicle began producing a strong fuel odor, and after refueling, the smell persists for several days each time I add gas. This issue did not exist prior to the repair. I contacted American Honda customer service to request assistance and to ask whether I could have the vehicle serviced at a different Honda dealership, since the issue appears to have been caused by the original repair. A case manager was assigned, but despite multiple calls and several voicemails, I have received no response or follow-up. All responses from American Honda customer service have been generic email acknowledgments, and no substantive assistance or resolution has been provided despite my repeated attempts to contact the assigned case manager. Because the fuel odor consistently appears after refueling, I am concerned the repair may have resulted in a leak or improper installation involving the fuel pump or related components. The entire fuel delivery system should be thoroughly re-checked to ensure there are no leaks or safety hazards. This presents a clear safety risk, including the potential for fire. I am requesting that this matter be formally reviewed due to the ongoing fuel-system safety concern and Honda’s lack of meaningful response.

Both door handles need to be replaced at 800.00 a piece. Key fob to door handles causing parasitic draw to the battery and car goes dead. Risk - have to lift that 47 lb hood to jumpstart while putting my back out. Steroid injects on 12/2/2025. My Honda advisor and pain doctor are aware. Problem has been reproduced by my Honda advisor and mechanic at Crown Honda Florida. No warning lamps in this Honda Civic 2018 shows no low battery capability. Google search door handles causing parasitic draw. 1600.00 is a lot of money to pay so I hope there will be a recall.

The steering wheel has been sticky on our 2018 Honda Civic. We took it to a Honda dealership for evaluation and they said it needs a Steering Gearbox Replacement. Other 2018 Honda Civics have had the same issue and a recall was issued but our particular vin number is not apart of this recall. The 2018 recall states: “Due to incorrect production of the steering gearbox torque sensor, the torque sensor magnet may shift from its normal position inside the gearbox. A shifted sensor magnet may cause the steering to move left or right unexpectedly, increasing the risk of a crash.” Because of this risk while driving, as well as it being the same issue that other cars with the same make and model were recalled, ours should also be recalled.

My boyfriend has a Honda Civic 2018 EXL and on 11/07/2025 around noonish, I briefly turned on the passenger side seat warmer for approximately 15 minutes and received second degree burns/blisters on the back of my thighs from the seat. I knew something was wrong because I had to peel my thighs off the seat and my skin felt really flushed and hot. Over 24 hours, the blisters formed and then popped.

I have replaced my battery twice. I have purchased a new door handle so it wouldn’t drain the electric in my vehicle. I was told to drive my car every day to keep my battery charged. I just walked out the door and my battery is dead. This has happened approximately 12 times since I have owned this vehicle and I believe there should be a recall because you cannot find the parasitic draw. Please help me. I cannot afford all these repairs and this should be a recall. I have seen lots of articles about the 2018 Honda Civic sedan please file this under a recall.

While driving, my steering wheel sticks in position. The steering wheel will remain in that position until I break it free using more than normal force. At speed, this can often result in overcorrection once the steering finally breaks loose. It is most noticable on the highway when trying to make micro-adjustments to the steering to maintain my lane. The micro-adjustments are not possible since more force is needed to loosen the steering wheel from it's stuck position. I've tried to look this issue up online, and it appears this is a common issue experienced by owners of this generation of Honda Civic. The issue is bad enough that steering racks are on back order due to so many being replaced.

Mid 2025 my brakes started malfunctioning above 50 mph. Then they were stuck closed. It was found to be a faulty abs module. We replaced it with Honda in the phone. The second module failed within 2 weeks. Now my car is still sitting at the shop, and Honda still hasn't responded. It's been 2 months

Steering wheel sticks when traveling over 60 MPH and trying to make minor lane adjustments on the freeway. This causes the driver to over correct and jerks the car back and forth.

AC did not work at all when the outside temperature was hot. Service Bulletin 19-091 performed. AC blew cold after the repair. 1 year later AC did not work at all again. Dealership said the extended warranty will not cover it because it is an evaporator leak. This is a known issue and many have complained. If there is a leak in the evaporator then I would assume the refrigerant is leaking into the car and not outside the car. Risks of R1234yf Refrigerant: Flammability: R1234yf is classified as mildly flammable (A2L), meaning it requires a significant heat source to ignite but can burn. Toxic combustion products: When burned, R1234yf produces highly toxic and corrosive substances, such as hydrogen fluoride. Asphyxiation risk: A leak can displace oxygen, leading to a risk of asphyxiation in poorly ventilated areas. More information with others having this issue and difficulty with Honda acknowledging the defect: https://www.civicx.com/forum/threads/2016-2019-evaporator-failures-leaks.52319/ https://topclassactions.com/lawsuit-settlements/consumer-products/auto-news/honda-class-action-alleges-civic-ac-defect/

Sticky steering, very difficult to handle on highway. It lasted about 2 weeks, then went away.

The engine gasket failed, leaking coolant into Cylinder 3. This created misfires while the vehicle was driving, leading to unpredictable loss of power while driving. Eventually, the coolant purged unbeknownst to the driver and created overheating conditions while driving which could have led to complete engine failure on the road. This behavior was confirmed and reproduced by an independent shop, WenMac Repair, in Hardin County, Ohio. They replaced the spark plugs and coils, thinking the misfire was not necessarily related to the head gasket. The vehicle was then taken to Honda Development and Manufacturing of America, LLC's official repair center for Honda Associates attached to Honda's Marysville Auto Plant 10/1/25 and diagnosed by a Honda master technician. My fiance and I both directly work for Honda. It is currently having the head gasket replaced at a cost of $2,700.00 plus taxes. The vehicle is still in the shop. The failure was observed on vehicle first around 150,000 miles.

The contact owns a 2018 Honda Civic. The contact stated that while driving at 60 MPH, the vehicle started to stall while depressing the accelerator pedal with the oil and battery warning lights illuminated. The contact then stated that the vehicle drifted backwards while attempting to accelerate up an incline. The contact shifted the vehicle into neutral(N) before shifting into park(P) to turn off and restart the vehicle. Once the vehicle was restarted, the contact coasted off to the shoulder of the highway and called for tow truck assistance. The vehicle was towed off the highway, and the contact restarted the vehicle and safely drove the vehicle to the residence. Upon investigation, the contact linked the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V858000 (Fuel System, Gasoline); however, the VIN was not included in the recall. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline to report the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 141,000.

The paint on my 2018 Honda Civic Hatchback (VIN: [XXX] , color Sonic Gray Pearl) is prematurely chipping and peeling on the driver-side mirror cover and door handle. This issue is identical to paint defects already acknowledged by Honda on other Civics and Accords, which were covered under extended warranties or settlements. Honda refuses to cover my vehicle, stating my VIN is excluded, even though the defect is visibly present and widespread among Civic owners. This reduces the vehicle’s durability and resale value and demonstrates a clear manufacturing paint adhesion defect. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

My steering sticks at all speeds and is difficult to drive on the highway

EPS gear box Every time I drive vehicle It was recommended by Honda Dealership to replace. The steering wheel catches while going into curves and changing lanes. This is a know problem on other 2018 Honda Civics. Some have been recalled. No warning lights.

Steering is "sticky". It is only noticeable when turning toward the right. It is exactly like the steering gearbox recall Honda announced October 2024. [XXX] My vehicle (2018) doesn't fall under the years recall linked above but its definitely experiencing that same issue. It is dangerous and I can feel the same "stickiness" at low(and high) speeds like backing into a driveway. Especially driving 45+ MPH, going around a right-curve on the highway and immediately when I start to straighten the steering wheel, it quickly jerks. This symptom happens consistently and easily duplicated. I've noticed it about a month ago and still happening every since then. I've never had this steering issues with any of the other vehicles I've owned and driven. There people are in the same generation(2016-2021) civic forums and Facebook groups experiences the same symptoms. The recall linked above should've been at least for the 2018 civics too. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

The contact owns a 2018 Honda Civic. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds and attempting to make a left or right turn, the steering wheel was sticking, requiring extra force to turn the steering wheel. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer where it was diagnosed, and the contact was advised that the rack and pinion were faulty and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 60,000.

The steering is sticky, the power steering does not return the wheel to center whenever I turn. It feels jerky whenever trying to remain center in the lane, especially at highway speeds. Makes slight noise when turning

Electronic power steering is having issues. Did some research and apparently it’s some sort of torque sensor that requires a whole steering rack replacement. This is a safety concern for the driver and other drivers on the road because the steering is “sticky.” It feels like pulling magnets apart to get the steering wheel to rotate more. Sometimes sticking so bad you have to fight it to steer more or realign the steering wheel straight. This is a well documented issue, some models being recalled for it but why not all with the issue? Multiple models in this year had this issue only being recalled by VIN number. The steering rack has not been inspected yet by anyone, but research states this is the issue we are dealing with. The problems occurred after purchasing the car from a used car dealership. It is an expensive repair that should be recalled on all models especially for the safety of the driver and everyone else on the road.

The car has excessive play in the steering causing much vibrations in the seat and steering wheel while driving, the slightest movement will send you all over the road and presents itself extremely jerky and unstable handling. It should not have this much play in the steering. I see multiple complaints over the steering of this car model but oddly enough i have the opposite issue pertaining to the same components but either way it sounds like the steering system of these cars are not up to par in some way and it seems dangerous to continue driving with noticeable issues there. Im about to trade it in dispite im still paying on it and there is over 100,000 miles on it. It feels like an expensive fix that just aint that worth it to me.

P0302 Cylinder 2 Misfire Detected, diagnosis concluded fuel injector is faulty, the rest are to follow the same path. Vehicle hesitation happened during highway traffic driving.

Ac evaporator leaking along with ac condenser and ac compressor confirmed by honda dealership

The contact owns a 2018 Honda Civic. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the steering wheel was jerking to the left or the right. Additionally, the contact stated that after making a turn, the steering wheel was sticking and failed to return to center, requiring the driver to forcefully return the steering wheel to the center. An unknown warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was diagnosed and determined that the EPS gearbox control unit assembly needed to be replaced, an alignment needed to be performed, and the steering angle neutral position learning procedure needed to be performed. The vehicle was also taken to Sons Honda (105 Sons Dr, McDonough, GA 30253), where the same assessment was made. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 18V663000 (Steering); however, the VIN was not included in the recall. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 73,000.

At first when driving highway speeds small adjustments to stay in lane steering wheel sticks. It has now progressed to any speed. When making adjustments to stay in lane steering wheel sticks causing over corrections, and repetitive correction. The vehicle has been inspected by two private shops. The first shop indicated there was a recall on the steering box. Second shop found two “soft codes” C0051-62 and UO416-68, and also suggested a recall that has been placed on other 2018 Honda civics for a faulty magnet in the steering gearbox could be the issue and suggested connecting with Honda. Called Honda customer service who stated there is no recall on my car, therefore suggested placing report to NHTSA.

I was told by the Honda Service team that my Electric Power Steering rack could be failing. I went in with the complaint of my wheel not returning to center and jerking when turning left -> center. Upon further research, it seems this issue is wide spread and extremely common in the '16 - 19' models of the Honda Civics. Despite this however, Honda has yet to recall the issue, and I was denied on my goodwill claim for assistance resolving the issue. There were no warning lights or signs regarding this issue before it started occurring, and the vehicle has been properly maintained.

The recall for my 2018 Honda Civic EX-L (VIN: [XXX] ) was completed at the Honda service center in Santee. I have contacted both Honda corporate and the service center, and each time I was told the recall would be cleared, but it is still showing as *open* on the NHTSA site. Because of this, the car cannot pass the required Vehicle Safety Systems Inspection, blocking registration. The bank is holding loan funds for the sale and may cancel the loan due to the delay. I am requesting immediate action to have the recall status updated. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Honda Civic 2018 EX keyless with BCM failure. Alarm won’t deactivate, engine won’t shut off. Only solution is battery disconnection. Issue reported in 2016+ models, Honda charges $1,000+. Full Complaint: My 2018 Honda Civic EX keyless has a serious electrical problem. The alarm activates and cannot be turned off with the key fob. I have to use the physical key to silence the horn, but the vehicle stays in accessory mode. If I start the car, I cannot turn off the engine. The only way is by disconnecting the battery cables, which is very dangerous since the ignition stays hot and could cause an electrical short. Honda knows about this defect but has not issued a recall. They are charging customers $1,000+ to replace the BCM. This problem has been reported in multiple Honda models from 2016 and newer, including the Honda Civic. In my opinion, this is a clear safety issue because if the vehicle cannot be turned off in an emergency, it could cause a serious accident or tragedy. I ask NHTSA to investigate and hold Honda accountable.

To Whom It May Concern, I am writing to report an issue with a recall for my [Year, Make, Model, VIN]. The recall has been completed, and I have contacted both the Honda corporate office and the service center in [XXX] regarding the status. However, the recall is still not showing as completed on the NHTSA site. This delay is preventing the vehicle from passing the Vehicle Safety Systems Inspection, which is required to finalize registration. The bank is holding funds for the sale, and there is a risk that the loan may be canceled if the registration cannot be completed. I am requesting urgent assistance to ensure the recall status is updated so the vehicle can pass inspection and the transaction can proceed. Thank you for your attention, Vtek Motorsports [XXX] [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

The air conditioning unit has failed and has continual problems, despite having repairs made through the dealership on four separate occasions. The AC condenser and seals have been replaced during each service. The vehicle is available for inspection upon request. The lack of air conditioning and dark exterior paint results in a high internal temperature of the vehicle, posing a significant risk of heat stroke and syncope to the driver and passengers. After driving for twenty minutes in the vehicle during a hot day, I was unable to continue driving as I was near syncope. The problem regarding the AC has been reproduced and confirmed by both the dealer and another independent service center. The only indication of the problem within the vehicle is when the AC is turned on. There were no warning lamps or messages of the problem prior to the failure of the system. The problem was first noted during the summer months of 2021.

The contact owns a 2018 Honda Civic. The contact stated that while driving at high speeds, the vehicle became difficult to maneuver, and the steering wheel was stuck in the direction turned. There was no warning light illuminated. The contact used excessive force to correct the steering wheel. The vehicle was taken to a dealer who confirmed the power steering assist failure, and the contact was provided an estimate for the repair. The vehicle was not yet repaired. Upon investigation, the contact linked the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 18V663000 (Steering), however, the VIN was not included in the recall. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown.

Steering wheel is becoming sticky, meaning it’s not returning back to the center as any car does. It tends to stick either left or right , you cannot make minor adjustments to keep your car center in the highway. You have to constantly keep fighting it either moving the steering wheel hard left or right back and forth. There has been numerous and countless people having the same issues with these cars and more models as well. With no solution the only solution is to replace the steering rack and it’s a $2,000 price tag, not cheap and not something Americans can pay up right away.

The steering wheel feels "sticky" when driving at highway speeds, as in it takes an additional amount of force to do regular and micro adjustments when driving at mostly over 45 MPH, it is more noticeable during longer trips. This feels like a very serious safety issue, since it feels like at any moment the steering wheel might just stick or lock in a position not allowing you to safely steer your car while doing 60 MPH on the highway, a recall for such a glaring safety concern needs to be addressed by HONDA.

Lots of play on the steering wheel (at all speeds). Car swerves driving down the road. Took it to the Honda Dealership. They informed me that the rack and pinion binding need to be replaced (at a $4305.02 estimated cost, with a $139.05 re-alignment). Link to Honda Diagnostics: [XXX] I am not sure how this is possible when my car is approximately 20,000 miles. I drive mainly to work which is under 5 miles a day. I rarely drive on a highway. I have not been in an accident. I distrust these diagnostics. My research shows that 2017-2018 are known to have steering issues: A Honda steering gearbox magnet, specifically related to the electronic power steering (EPS) system, has been identified as a potential issue in certain Honda Civic and CR-V models (2017-2018). The magnet, which helps control the steering assist, may not be properly secured and could dislodge during a full lock turn, potentially causing the steering to apply assist in the opposite direction. This recall is part of a larger effort to address a steering defect in several Honda models. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Steering wheel is hard to move/ steer, makes clunking noises, can feel vibration in the steering wheel, way worse at higher speeds, definitely a safety issue if the steering locks up you can't steer the car!!! I see there are recalls on this make model and year car, but mine isn't included??, it should be and why not? This car has only 15k miles.

The electric power steering (EPS) system failed/malfunctioned this past week. When going over 35 mph my steering wheel would become "knotchy/jerky" and lock up and be difficult to turn. As a result, I took it to Honda to which they stated my whole rack and pinion needed total replacement. No warning signs, messages, icons, or lights came on in my car.

Parking brake does not light up. It will flash and not turn on. Once the car is in park and pull the brake button it will not engage. Turning off the engine you can hear the brake system trying to engage but doesn’t. This is a problem when parking the car up hill or down hill. Have been avoiding parking car in these scenarios.

The contact owns a 2018 Honda Civic. The contact stated while driving at high speeds, the steering wheel became difficult to maneuver. There was no warning light illuminated. The contact stated that the vehicle was drivable. The contact stated that the failure persisted while his wife was driving the vehicle at an undisclosed speed. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by a dealer or an independent mechanic. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 18V663000 (Steering), however, the VIN was not included in the recall. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and informed the contact that the VIN was not included in the recall. The failure mileage was approximately 150,000.

We have noticed a clicking noise and her steering has begun to stick. Took to Honda and they told us they have been seeing this issue and even sent video telling us they see this is an ongoing problem. Filed claim with Honda. They refused to fix the faulty part because there is not recall with my VIN even though many have been recalled. Again, multiple managers at service told us they are just waiting for Honda to recall this. Car has less than 55,000 miles. We have a video they sent us but ai have been unable to attach. It is a video Honda Service sent us stating this was an ongoing issue with Honda advice at this year and a few others. That they were seeing these parts fail.

At speed the steering sticks when turning.

The contact owns a 2018 Honda Civic. The contact stated that while attempting to make a left turn, the steering wheel became difficult to turn. No warning light was illuminated. A dealer and an independent mechanic were contacted. The vehicle was taken to the dealer and then taken to an independent mechanic, where both diagnosed that the steering assembly needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact related the failure Technical Service Bulletin: 18-102 (Steering Gearbox); however, the VIN was not included in the bulletin. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and informed the contact that there were no recalls associated with the VIN. The contact was referred by the manufacturer to the NHTSA Hotline to report the failure. The failure mileage was 80,000.

Rack and Pinion steering failure. Sticking, hard to make wheel adjustments. loss of steering control. issue confirmed but Honda Dealership. Honda Dealership contacted Honda North America and was rejected as warranty issue. repair will exceed $7500. This issue corresponded with the fuel Pump recall and failure of the AC system which were covered under warranty recall. Due the High volume of failures of R & P for these Honda civics locating replacement parts is difficult if not impossible.

My complaint is similar to most of the other ones shown here. Notchy steering. I took it to the dealer. They told me that the steering rack was bad and needed to be replaced. How much? $6500! The car has under 30,000 miles on it. Got to give the service rep credit. He asked me if I wanted them to contact American Honda. I said heck yes. While they were making their decision, which took about 2 weeks, I came here and looked at all of the other similar complaints. The dealer told me that Honda would cover 100% of the replacement cost. They ordered the parts and the replacement was completed last week. Although this was resolved to my satisfaction, it's another incident for the record, and it demonstrates that the problem showed up as early as under 30,000 miles.

The steering wheel becomes sticky and stiff. There is also a clicking noise when I try to center it. It is difficult to keep the car within my lane of traffic. There is presently 38,565 miles on this vehicle. I keep up with required maintenance. The vehicle has not yet been inspected by the dealership. There is a Safety Recall for 2017-18 civic: steering box . My VIN number is not included on this recall. I understand repair to the steering is close to 4,000.00. No warning lights are on the dashboard.....yet. My understanding is this problem only becomes worse in time. This constant swerving and erratic steering is not only tiresome I believe it can become dangerous.

Steering wheel gets really loose and very stiff at random while driving. I get power steering failure notifications on dash. I spoke with Honda dealership and was told my vehicle doesn’t belong to the recall. I have all the symptoms of the power steering recall issue.