Honda Canada has announced the recall of approximately 239,000 vehicles over concerns related to a defective steering system component, which could increase the risk of a crash or injury. The voluntary recall impacts 2022-2025 models of both Honda and Acura vehicles, marking a significant safety issue that has also led to a recall of around 1.7 million vehicles in the United States.
The problem stems from an “improperly produced steering gearbox worm wheel,” a crucial gear within the steering system. According to Honda’s advisory, the worm wheel may swell when exposed to heat and moisture, affecting the thickness of the grease layer between the gear and the connected bar. This can cause excessive friction between components, leading to increased steering effort or “sticky” steering, which could result in drivers having difficulty controlling the vehicle in certain conditions.
Potential Safety Risks
The increased friction within the steering system presents a serious safety hazard, as it can impair a driver’s ability to steer the vehicle smoothly. The defect, if not addressed, may significantly increase the likelihood of an accident. Honda Canada, recognizing the potential danger posed by this issue, has urged affected vehicle owners to take immediate action.
“Excessive friction between these components can cause increased steering effort and difficulty, or ‘sticky’ steering, which could lead to a crash,” the advisory warns. Although no specific incidents of crashes or injuries related to this defect have been reported so far, the recall is seen as a proactive measure to prevent future accidents.
Affected Vehicles and Free Repairs
Owners of affected vehicles will receive a notification by mail and are entitled to a free repair at authorized Honda and Acura dealerships. Honda Canada has assured owners that the faulty part will be replaced without charge to ensure the safety and functionality of the vehicle’s steering system.
The list of recalled models includes a range of popular vehicles across Honda and Acura brands. Here are the specific models impacted by the recall in Canada:
- 2022-2025 Honda Civic Sedan
- 2022-2025 Honda Civic Hatchback
- 2025 Honda Civic Hybrid Sedan
- 2025 Honda Civic Hybrid Hatchback
- 2023-2025 Honda Civic Type R
- 2023-2025 Honda CR-V
- 2023-2025 Honda CR-V Hybrid
- 2023-2025 Honda HR-V
- 2023-2025 Acura Integra
- 2024-2025 Acura Integra Type S
Honda is working closely with its network of dealerships to expedite the repairs, ensuring that customers can have their vehicles serviced promptly. Owners of affected vehicles are encouraged to contact their local dealerships or visit Honda’s website to check their vehicle identification number (VIN) for recall status.
How to Check if Your Vehicle is Affected
While Honda Canada will notify vehicle owners by mail, those who are unsure whether their vehicle is included in the recall can visit Honda Canada’s website and use their VIN to verify if their car requires repairs. This proactive approach is recommended for those who want to ensure their vehicle’s safety as soon as possible.
Vehicle owners are urged to address the issue immediately to avoid any potential safety risks. Even if the vehicle has not yet displayed signs of the defect, it is critical that the faulty component be replaced to ensure safe driving conditions.
Wider Implications and Safety Concerns
This recall adds to a growing list of vehicle safety recalls in Canada and the U.S. related to steering and control issues. Honda, like many other automakers, has faced challenges with certain manufacturing processes, especially with components as critical as those related to steering systems. The scale of this recall—affecting hundreds of thousands of vehicles across North America—underscores the seriousness of the issue.
The safety of drivers and passengers remains a priority, and recalls like this highlight the importance of regular vehicle maintenance and staying updated on manufacturer announcements. Vehicle owners who have concerns about their car’s performance are encouraged to seek inspection and repairs, particularly when dealing with issues related to steering, brakes, or other essential systems.
Next Steps for Vehicle Owners
Owners of the affected models should expect to receive recall notices by mail in the coming weeks. In the meantime, they can take the initiative to verify their vehicle’s recall status online and schedule an appointment at their nearest Honda or Acura dealership for a free replacement of the defective part.
Given the scale of the recall, Honda Canada has reassured customers that dealerships will prioritize these repairs and work as quickly as possible to resolve the issue. Vehicle owners should not ignore the recall notice, as the defective part poses a significant risk if left unrepaired.
As Honda Canada and its dealers work to rectify the issue, the recall serves as a reminder of the importance of addressing vehicle recalls promptly. By taking swift action, drivers can ensure their vehicles remain safe and reliable on the road.
This recall, covering a wide range of models across multiple years, underscores Honda’s commitment to addressing potential safety hazards and maintaining the trust of its customers. Vehicle owners are encouraged to stay informed and take the necessary steps to ensure their vehicle is safe to drive.