Drivers of certain late-model Honda vehicles have reported a pattern of troubling and unexpected sensations at highway speeds. Oftentimes, the issue appears as the steering wheel feeling momentarily stuck when making small corrections, then suddenly releasing. This phenomenon, often referred to as “sticky steering,” can occur without warning and may require extra force to overcome, increasing the risk of overcorrection.

The issue drew the attention of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), which investigated complaints and ultimately oversaw a recall impacting approximately 1.7 million Honda and Acura vehicles. The 2022–2025 Civic and CR-V models were the primary focus, though the recall expanded to include the HR-V and Acura Integra as well. While NHTSA closed its investigation in January 2025 after the recall was issued, a class action lawsuit continues into 2026, with plaintiffs arguing the recall remedy may not fully resolve the defect.

While not every vehicle exhibits symptoms, the scope of the investigation into affected vehicles highlights growing concerns about electronic steering reliability in modern cars and what can happen when advanced systems fail in ways that may affect vehicle handling.

The 2022-2025 Honda Lineup List

While over 1.7 million Honda and Acura models were impacted by the NHTSA recall alert, Civic and CR-V units were the initial affected models. However, the recall expanded to include additional model years and types:

• 2022-2025 Honda Civic 4D
• 2025 Honda Civic 4D Hybrid (Civic Hybrid)
• 2022-2025 Honda Civic 5D (Civic Hatchback)
• 2025 Honda Civic 5D Hybrid
• 2023-2025 Honda Civic Type R
• 2023-2025 Honda CR-V
• 2023-2025 Honda CR-V Hybrid
• 2025 Honda CR-V Fuel Cell Electric Vehicle
• 2023–2025 Honda HR-V
• 2023–2025 Acura Integra
• 2024–2025 Acura Integra Type S

Both the CR-V and Civic models transitioned to newer electronic steering configurations during recent redesigns, which appeared to coincide with the reported issues.

Why Sticky Steering Raises Safety Concerns at Highway Speeds

Unlike a complete steering failure, sticky steering can be deceptive. The wheel does not lock entirely; it just resists movement long enough to disrupt a driver’s natural steering rhythm. Common symptoms of a sticky wheel include:

• A grinding or rubbing sensation through the steering wheel
• A momentary stuck feeling when making small corrections
• Sudden release requiring more input than expected

At highway speeds, drivers make constant micro-adjustments to maintain lane position. When the steering wheel resists these inputs, the driver may instinctively apply more force. When that resistance suddenly releases, the vehicle can veer unexpectedly. This problem can dramatically increase the risk of overcorrection, lane departures, and loss of control during evasive maneuvers.

In emergency situations, such as avoiding debris or responding to sudden traffic changes, even a brief delay in steering response may increase the risk of an accident.

Electronic Power Steering Gear Replacement Costs

Modern electric power steering systems are complex, integrated assemblies that combine motors, sensors, and control modules into a single unit. When failures occur internally, repairs are rarely simple or inexpensive. For perspective, RepairPal estimates that the average cost for a steering gearbox replacement is between $1,000 and $1,300. Of this cost, $850 to $950 is directly correlated with labor costs, whereas the remainder is attributed to parts.

For vehicles covered under the recall, Honda will perform the repair at no cost to the owner. The figures above represent what owners could face if a similar steering issue occurs outside a recall—for example, after factory warranty expiration on a vehicle not covered by this specific campaign.

Unlike hydraulic steering systems of the past, electronic components usually cannot be repaired at the component level. This means that motors, sensors, ECUs, and more cannot be replaced individually. Replacement of the entire steering gear assembly is the standard fix. In manufacturer warranties, steering components are often excluded from powertrain warranties.

This is why extended warranties or vehicle service contracts can be a useful tool. These are auto protection plans issued by third parties, such as Endurance, that typically fill in coverage gaps once manufacturer warranties expire. They can be beneficial for a variety of automotive makes and models, regardless of whether they’re new, used, low mileage, or high mileage. Claims procedures vary by provider, but many plans include clear, established processes for submitting a covered repair claim.

Navigating the Honda Recall

Honda issued a formal recall (NHTSA Campaign 24V-744) directing dealers to replace the worm gear spring and redistribute or add grease as necessary at the dealership, free of charge. Owner notification letters were expected to be mailed by November 18, 2024.

Drivers experiencing symptoms with steering effort, the steering rack, gearbox assembly, or any other aspect should take proactive steps to ensure the issue is properly documented:

1. Check Your VIN: Locate your VIN on the dashboard, door jamb, or vehicle registration, then search NHTSA databases and Honda recall portals. Save screenshots or confirmation pages for your records.
2. Document the Symptoms Precisely: Vague descriptions like “feels weird” may not trigger proper diagnostic logging, so try to use specific phrases such as “momentary resistance during minor steering corrections at highway speeds” or “the steering wheel feels sticky before releasing”.
3. Request Written Documentation: Ask for a printed repair order, notes confirming the complaint, even if no repair is made, and diagnostic findings or fault codes.

Building this paper trail may be helpful if reimbursement, warranty escalation, or legal claims arise later. It can also help demonstrate when the concern was first reported.

Understanding Your Tech & Coverage

Electronic steering systems represent a broader shift in vehicle design, one that trades mechanical simplicity for efficiency and advanced driver assistance compatibility. Unfortunately, this also introduces new failure points that may not be fully covered under standard warranties. To plan effectively, you should familiarize yourself with what’s covered under OEM warranties vs. vehicle service contracts, common electronic steering failure modes, and what the out-of-pocket exposure will be if no recall is issued.

As vehicles become more software-dependent, manufacturers like Honda face increasing scrutiny over how these systems perform in real-world conditions.

Never Ignore Subtle Steering Changes on Your Vehicle

Sticky steering is not just an annoyance, but rather a warning sign. If your 2022-2025 Honda Civic or CR-V exhibits resistance, grinding, or delayed steering response, document it immediately and pursue formal evaluation.

With repair costs exceeding $1,000, early documentation may help support warranty or recall eligibility if questions arise later. More importantly, addressing steering issues promptly will help protect not only your finances but also your safety on the road.

If you need vehicle protection, consider a vehicle service contract with Endurance. Contact one of our service plan representatives at (800) 253-8203 or request a FREE quote. You can also see your price and plan recommendations through our convenient online store.