NHTSA Owner Complaint Log
This page lists owner-reported complaints filed with NHTSA for the 2018 Honda Civic. Complaints are unverified consumer reports submitted to NHTSA and do not by themselves prove a defect or defect rate.
The contact owns a 2018 Honda Civic. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V858000 (Fuel System, Gasoline); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The dealer was contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The dealer confirmed that parts were not yet available for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The contact had not experienced a failure.
Problem presented in April 2026 at 34,300 miles on odometer. The vehicle steering sticks or locks at the 12 o'clock position at highway speeds. A high degree of effort is required to overcome the steering stiction resistance to make small steering adjustments to maintain vehicle course. This anomaly results in overshooting the desired steering adjustment which could potentially cause a accident such as a sideswipe crash or loss of control leaving the roadway. There have been no dashboard warning indicators. The local Honda dealer inspected the car and stated that the steering gearbox needed to be replaced at an estimated cost of $4,025.
While operating the vehicle normally on the highway going 70mph, there were not other cars nearby, the sunroof simply exploded.
When driving in highway or street, the steering feels very stiff. It’s difficult to turn and, especially hard when driving in the highway making small adjustments. When turning left and holding corners the wheel likes to bounce. Took it in the dealership and diagnosed to be the steering rack assembly, and want to charge me 5500 for it. I just bought the vehicle not even 3 days old and I have to spend an extra 5 grand to ensure I’m safe when I’m driving and it’s not right. This is dangerous because if I can’t control the wheel I can lose control and hit someone else. There were no warnings, which was why I purchased the vehicle. The dealership at Honda confirmed my suspicions and diagnosed it as a bad steering rack assembly, and is charging a lump some of money for the fix. The car only had 47000 miles and this should not be an issue I should be dealing with. Honda needs to resolve this as it’s very dangerous to be driving like this especially on a vehicle with very low miles.
I've had two 2018 civics (first one was totaled) and the A/C issues are a serious hazard. The condenser and seal thankfully has been addressed with a recall, but after having had the condenser and seals replaced twice now (once on each car), my car is now experiencing evaporator failure :,) which makes my car stink :,) and I can't afford the repair at nearly twice my monthly rent :,) This of course is all happening during the anomalous, record-breaking 100+ degree heat waves in Southern California. I suffered mild heat exhaustion driving home with the windows down while waiting to hear word back from Honda on whether or not they would accept my request for goodwill assistance, only to find that they initially denied it. I'm still trying to reopen my case with them, and I'd hate to have to sell the car for another, safer option. My whole family owns older model Hondas, and they have never experienced any "wear and tear" on their A/C systems. This is clearly a 2018 model design flaw and a serious safety issue that warrants investigation.
The contact owns a 2018 Honda Civic. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the steering wheel failed to turn in the intended direction. There was an abnormal clicking sound coming from the steering wheel. No warning lights were illuminated. In addition, the contact stated that the failure had occurred while making a right turn. The contact stated that excessive force was needed to turn the steering wheel. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or the dealer. The contact stated that the failure was a known failure with the vehicle. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure but provided no assistance. The contact was advised to contact the NHTSA Hotline to report the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 142,000.
I have noticed a slight resistance or “sticky” feeling in the steering, especially when driving at highway speeds or while making gentle turns. The steering does not always feel smooth when making small corrections near the center or during curves. At times, the steering wheel feels like it briefly resists movement and then releases, requiring a small additional input to continue turning smoothly. This has occurred intermittently and is more noticeable during continuous driving. The vehicle remains controllable, but the steering does not always return as smoothly as expected, which can affect driving comfort and precision.
Steering wheel gets stuck, Jerky. Steering is jerky when traveling in a straight line, at different speeds. For example when traveling at 45 mph in a straight line, if you need to make a slight correction to stay in your lane the steering wheel seems to lock causing you to exert more force to turn it and then it releases causing you to over correct. I know other owners that have the same problem. This in my opinion is a safety concern and should be investigated.
The contact owns a 2018 Honda Civic. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the steering wheel became firm and was sticking while driving forward. No warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 59,000.
The steering issue in my 2018 Honda Civic has put my safety and that of others at severe risk by causing unpredictable sticky and jerky movements at highway speeds, potentially leading to loss of control and crashes—I’ve had to fight the wheel multiple times on LA freeways just to stay in my lane, and it’s only getting worse with heat buildup. The problem has not yet been reproduced or confirmed by a dealer or independent service center, as I’m in the process of scheduling that amid Honda’s stonewalling, but it’s identical to widespread EPS failures reported in similar models. The vehicle has not been inspected by the manufacturer, police, insurance reps, or anyone else yet—Honda’s dodging responsibility despite knowing about these defects since 2016 per the Burgos v. Honda lawsuit. There were no warning lamps, messages, or other symptoms prior to the failure; it just started jerking out of nowhere during high-speed drives, first noticed today based on my best recollection. This is a blatant manufacturing flaw Honda’s covering up for older Civics while recalling newer ones for the same damn thing—force them to expand the recall before it kills someone. Approximate incident date: 03/02/2026. No crash occurred.
The ac system has failed. I took it to the dealership to have the condenser replaced, as Honda has extended the warranty on it due to the failure, but the evaporative core has also been affected and is leaking. Honda knows that this is a problem. There are many reports from other Civic owners that have had the same issue. Honda refuses to acknowledge this, and will not replace the condenser until the evaporative core is fixed. I am currently homeless, and live in my vehicle full time. I need my air conditioning to be working as the heat here is a safety risk. The problem has been confirmed by the dealership. The only symptom that occurred was the air conditioning was no longer blowing cold, and it occurred on February 24, 2026. I have contacted Honda and requested goodwill assistance, but they have refused to help in any way.
The electric power steering gets notchy and sticks instead of smooth turning. This causes the car to drift left and right in the lane. The hotter the day and longer the drive, the worse the problem gets.
The contact owns a 2018 Honda Civic. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle stalled. The contact stated that the vehicle failed to accelerate as needed. The contact associated the failure with NHTSA Campaign Number: 20V314000 (FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE). The vehicle was repaired; however, the failure reoccurred. The vehicle was towed back to the residence. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 56,000.
Windshield has a sudden crack after snow. I don’t know how it came to be.
•I am an Indiana resident. •I purchased a vehicle from a private seller in Ohio (seller operates through an LLC) on 1/16/2026 •Fraudulent title activity was discovered by mechanic on 1/26/26 (taken to mechanic due to sudden and unexpected issues) •The purchase agreement and price ($9,000) were confirmed via text message; there was no written bill of sale and no “as-is” agreement. •Prior to purchase, the seller provided a VIN that belonged to a different vehicle than the one sold. •After purchase, I discovered the vehicle has evidence of odometer rollback; the Ohio title indicates “odometer inaccurate,” which was not disclosed prior to sale. •The vehicle was previously salvage titled and originated from Canada, neither of which were disclosed. •The Ohio title lists an incorrect purchase price of $4,000, despite the agreed purchase price of $9,000. •Title was sold under dealer name permit number XXX •The vehicle was shown and represented as being in “great condition”; however, shortly after purchase, a licensed mechanic determined the vehicle requires a replacement engine, battery, and additional major mechanical repairs, rendering it unsafe and not drivable. Files attached support all of the above. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
1. the vehicle has stalled twice now. both times when i tried to accelerate. 2. the vehicle is having problems starting 3. the starter was replaced once before but now i wonder if it was related to the fuel pump 4. there is a fuel pump recall on 2018 Hondas but mine is not part of it 5. the vehicle has issues when i come to a complete stop, sometimes the car seems like it doesn't want to accelerate. 6. the vehicle has not been inspected yet and there are no warning lights.
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
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
The contact owns a 2018 Honda Civic. The contact stated that while driving and turning the steering wheel, the steering was sticking and turned in the opposite direction, reducing the maneuverability of the vehicle. The contact was able to turn the steering wheel to the intended direction. There was no warning light illuminated. The dealer was notified of the failure and informed the contact that the VIN was not included in NHTSA Campaign Number: 18V663000 (Steering). The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was approximately 100,000.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 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.
My steering sticks at all speeds and is difficult to drive on the highway
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
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.
ac evaporator leaking along with ac condenser and ac compressor confirmed by honda dealership
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.
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
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 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.
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 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.
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)
Airbag deployment after minor incident .. foot slipped off the brake at a traffic light while car was not in motion, car rolled a few feet and bumped the back of another vehicle and the tow ball from the back bumper of said vehicle went through the front bumper of my 2018 Honda Civic and the airbag was deployed
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
I own a 2018 Honda Civic that is subject to an open fuel pump recall. My vehicle suddenly became completely inoperable. When attempting to start the car, all of the dashboard lights come on, but the engine will not start or crank. The vehicle has power but will not turn over at all. This failure happened without any prior warning. I contacted Nalley Honda in Union City, GA, and they confirmed that the issue is related to the fuel pump recall. However, they refused to provide towing for the vehicle and told me the earliest appointment available would be over a week out, despite the vehicle being undrivable due to this known safety defect. This situation puts my safety and my family’s safety at risk, as I am now stranded without reliable transportation because of a manufacturer defect. The problem has been acknowledged by the dealership but has not been resolved because of their refusal to assist with towing or provide a timely repair. There were no warning lights or error messages prior to the failure—this happened suddenly. I am requesting that the NHTSA investigate this issue further, as it presents a serious safety concern. I also want to report that Honda has not provided towing assistance or a loaner vehicle while the safety recall repair is pending, which leaves me without any transportation.
Data synced from NHTSA on May 4, 2026