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severe Owners of the 2012 Honda Civic have filed 74 NHTSA complaints about the steering, typically surfacing around 68,000 miles at roughly $700 to repair (U.S. federal records, as of July 2026). Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation. See steering across all vehicles →
| Model year | steering complaints |
|---|---|
| 2008 Civic | 24 |
| 2009 Civic | 13 |
| 2010 Civic | 19 |
| 2011 Civic | 4 |
| 2012 Civic (this page) | 74 |
| 2013 Civic | 37 |
| 2014 Civic | 15 |
| 2015 Civic | 20 |
| 2016 Civic | 431 |
Of the 74 steering complaints filed for the 2012 Honda Civic, here's the actual mileage breakdown — failures cluster heaviest at 0-25,000 mi.
Each bar shows the share of total complaints filed at that mileage range. Peak failure window highlighted. Some owners report problems earlier; some make it well past 150,000 miles symptom-free. Maintenance habits and driving conditions shift the curve as much as mileage alone.
No new NHTSA steering complaint has been filed on this vehicle in over 11 years — the issue may be aging out of the active population.
The steering column may not have proper energy absorbing characteristics, which could increase the risk of injury during a vehicle crash.
The manufacturer has issued service bulletins covering steering on this vehicle — documented repair instructions, service campaigns, or warranty extensions sent to dealers. A TSB isn't a recall (it's not a free safety remedy), but it's the manufacturer acknowledging the issue and how to fix it.
ServiceNews Article - When removing and installing a cable reel, you need to keep both the cable reel and the steering angle sensor in position. If you don't , the VSA indicator may come on along with one or more VSA DTCs. And when you run the Neutral Memorization Procedure in the i-HDS, it won't complete.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗"DEALER MESSAGE - AMERICAN HONDA (AHM) IS INVESTIGATING CERTAIN 2012-2015 CIVICS WITH A CUSTOMER COMPLAINT OF EPS (ELECTRIC POWER- ASSISTED STEERING) LIGHT ON WITH/WITHOUT LOSS OF POWER STEERING ASSIST AS WELL AS HAVING THE DTC 33-01 (LOWER FET STUCK ON), 33-02 (UPPER FET STUCK ON) AND/OR 33-06(LOWER FET STUCK ON) STORED. TO FULLY UNDERSTAND THE CAUSE OF THIS OCCURRENCE, AHM WOULD LIKE TO INSPECT THE VEHICLE PRIOR TO YOU ATTEMPTING A REPAIR OF ANY KIND."
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗"ENGINEERING REQUEST - AMERICAN HONDA (AHM) IS INVESTIGATING CERTAIN 2012-2015 CIVICS WITH A CUSTOMER COMPLAINT OF EPS (ELECTRIC POWER-ASSISTED STEERING) LIGHT ON WITH/WITHOUT LOSS OF POWER STEERING ASSIST AS WELL AS HAVING THE DTC 33-01 (LOWER FET STUCK ON), 33-02 (UPPER FET STUCK ON) AND/OR 33-06 (LOWER FET STUCK ON) STORED. TO FULLY UNDERSTAND THE CAUSE OF THIS OCCURRENCE, AHM WOULD LIKE TO INSPECT THE VEHICLE PRIOR TO YOU ATTEMPTING A REPAIR OF ANY KIND."
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗"DEALER MESSAGE - AMERICAN HONDA (AHM) IS INVESTIGATING CERTAIN 2012-2015 CIVICS WITH A CUSTOMER COMPLAINT OF EPS (ELECTRIC POWER- ASSISTED STEERING) LIGHT ON WITH/WITHOUT LOSS OF POWER STEERING ASSIST AS WELL AS HAVING THE DTC 33-01 (LOWER FET STUCK ON), 33-02 (UPPER FET STUCK ON) AND/OR 33-06 (LOWER FET STUCK ON) STORED. TO FULLY UNDERSTAND THE CAUSE OF THIS OCCURRENCE, AHM WOULD LIKE TO INSPECT THE VEHICLE PRIOR TO YOU ATTEMPTING A REPAIR OF ANY KIND."
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗HONDA: SEE DOCUMENT SEARCH BUTTON FOR OWNER LETTER. STEERING WHEEL AUDIO CONTROL SOFTWARE UPDATE. UPDATED 11/28/11. UPDATED 5/3/2012.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Source: NHTSA manufacturer communications. Bring the bulletin number to your dealer or shop.
The 2012 Honda Civic steering system shows a consistent failure pattern. Owners report the electronic power steering (EPS) light illuminating with sudden loss of steering assist, often at highway speeds (35–70 mph). The steering wheel becomes locked or extremely stiff, requiring exceptional force to turn. Many cases recur even after dealerships replace the EPS control unit, update software, or replace the steering rack. Owners describe having to shut off and restart the engine multiple times to restore steering function—a risky workaround on busy roads.
Beyond EPS loss, some owners report combined failures of steering and brakes shutting down simultaneously, creating a two-system failure hazard. One complaint describes the VSA stability control taking total command and accelerating the vehicle sideways into a curb during light snow, preventing the driver from applying throttle to escape. Control arm bushing cracks and complete suspension failures have also been cited, with one vehicle becoming a total loss after control arm collapse.
Steering column lock-up at startup occurs frequently enough that some owners avoid driving the car. Vague steering with excessive play at speeds above 55 mph requires constant correction. Steering wheel cracks at the hub (where the airbag deploys) have been reported but dismissed by dealers. Dealerships consistently tell owners no recalls apply and either cannot replicate the failures or lack tools to fix them properly. Multiple owners—some mechanics themselves—describe the failures as dangerous and believe a factory recall is overdue.
Same Honda Civic steering reports on nearby years: 2009 · 2010 · 2013 · 2014 · 2015
The EPS system abruptly loses function, causing the steering wheel to become unresponsive or extremely difficult to turn. The CHECK POWER STEERING warning light illuminates. Loss can occur during driving or at startup. In many cases, turning the car off and restarting temporarily restores function; however, the failure recurs intermittently or persistently. Some owners report the system locks completely; others report gradual degradation. Dealers have replaced EPS control units, updated EPS software, and replaced steering racks, but failures often return despite these repairs.
When: Ranges from 17k to 136k miles. Failures reported during driving (35–70 mph typical), at startup, and while parked.
Symptoms owners cite: CHECK POWER STEERING warning light illumination; Steering wheel becomes stiff, unresponsive, or locked; Loss of power assist; manual steering requires excessive force; Intermittent failures; function returns after engine restart; Failures recur even after replacement of control unit or rack; System may reset after 10–15 minute shutdown
Codes mentioned: Code 33-01, Code 33-06, Code 51-04, Code 33-01FET (switch within steering rack), P0304 (cylinder #4 misfire, in one CNG case)
Repairs/costs cited: EPS control unit replacement ($867 reported); EPS software updates ($70); steering rack replacement ($1,514.77 reported); one case required power steering column replacement. Repairs often do not resolve the issue permanently.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Multiple Honda dealerships reported no open recalls for EPS failures on 2012 Civic. Owners mention Honda has issued recalls for EPS on other vehicles (13V288000 referenced). Honda corporate allegedly stated unwillingness to pursue recalls due to cost concerns (per complaint #1). TSBs or warranty programs not explicitly mentioned by complainants.
The VSA system activates during minor road slip (such as light snow, gentle turns) and takes complete control away from the driver, preventing throttle input and causing erratic brake and steering wheel jerking. The vehicle accelerates uncontrollably sideways down a slope or into obstacles. The driver cannot disengage VSA and dealers refuse to disable it. This differs from normal stability control function and creates a dangerous loss of vehicle control.
When: Occurs during light snow/low-traction conditions and light-speed turns (e.g., ~10 mph turn on a slope). No specific mileage cited.
Symptoms owners cite: VSA light illuminates during minor slip; Loss of throttle control (driver cannot apply gas); Brakes activate erratically (one at a time or wildly); Steering wheel jerks involuntarily; Vehicle accelerates sideways uncontrollably despite driver input; Complete loss of driver control for minor wheel slip
Repairs/costs cited: Suspension damage ($1,125 repair; tire/wheel replacement ~$600). Dealers refused to disable VSA system.
The steering wheel suddenly becomes locked or frozen and does not turn in either direction. The wheel may move only a fraction of an inch. Occurs both at startup (parked vehicle) and while driving. Often accompanied by the CHECK POWER STEERING light. The problem may be temporary (resolves after engine restart or a few minutes) or persistent. Some cases required power steering column or rack replacement.
When: Ranges from 30k to 115k miles. Can occur at any speed including highway (60 mph). Often happens after vehicle has been parked.
Symptoms owners cite: Steering wheel will not turn left or right (or moves only ~0.5 inch); CHECK POWER STEERING warning light illuminates; Wheel is locked in place; Occurs at startup or during driving; Temporary; resolves after engine restart or 10–15 minute wait
Repairs/costs cited: Power steering column replacement required (not repaired in at least one case due to cost); steering rack replacement; one case required four engine restart cycles to restore steering function.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Dealerships either cannot replicate the failure or claim no open recalls apply. One dealer offered airbag replacement ($1,200) despite no airbag involvement in steering complaint.
Power steering and brake systems fail simultaneously or in close succession, leaving the driver unable to steer or stop. The CHECK POWER STEERING light illuminates. Occurs at low speed (parking lot) and highway speeds. In at least one case, brake pedal was pressed repeatedly without effect. Emergency brake was used to stop the vehicle. This failure creates an extremely hazardous condition with dual loss of steering and stopping control.
When: Occurs during normal driving and parking maneuvers; one case at 50 mph traffic light scenario.
Symptoms owners cite: Brakes fail; pedal does not slow vehicle despite pumping; Power steering fails simultaneously; CHECK POWER STEERING warning light illuminates; Complete loss of steering control; Driver forced to use emergency brake to stop; Wheel locks or becomes extremely difficult to turn; Loss of all electrical power in one case (lights, engine, brakes, steering off simultaneously)
Codes mentioned: Electrical system codes (referenced but not detailed)
Repairs/costs cited: In one case, complete electrical failure required towing to service center. One case involved alternator replacement that did not resolve the steering issue.
Steering wheel has excessive play or feels vague, especially at highway speeds (above 55 mph). The vehicle pulls to the right requiring constant left-hand steering correction to maintain a straight line. Driver reports needing to make repeated steering corrections. Dealerships have performed two-wheel and four-wheel alignments without resolving the issue. Dealer inspection of steering and suspension components revealed no problems despite persistent symptoms.
When: Occurs at speeds above 55 mph. No specific mileage cited in vague steering complaints.
Symptoms owners cite: Excessive play in steering wheel; Vague steering feel; Vehicle veers to the right; Requires continuous left-hand correction; Lack of control at highway speeds; Feels unsafe on highway
Repairs/costs cited: Four-wheel alignment performed twice; bushings replaced; dealer inspection found no problems. Issue unresolved.
Damage to the power steering electrical system caused by rain water entering the vehicle, particularly through an open sunroof. Loss of power steering with warning light illumination occurred after rain. Technician confirmed water damage to the EPS electrical system.
When: 17,300 miles; failure occurred the day after rain with sunroof open.
Symptoms owners cite: Loss of power steering with warning indicator; Sporadic failure; Water damage to EPS electrical components
Repairs/costs cited: Vehicle was repaired (specific repairs not detailed).
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Manufacturer was notified of the problem.
The center section of the steering wheel, where the airbag is housed, develops cracks. Owner is concerned this could affect airbag deployment. Multiple owners report this issue. Honda dealership dismissed the concern as 'not a big deal.' No prior accident or collision caused the cracks.
When: No specific mileage cited; one case at 69,000 miles.
Symptoms owners cite: Visible cracks in steering wheel center hub; Crack originates from area where airbag deploys; Vehicle never in accident
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Honda dealership refused to address issue, claiming it is 'not a big deal.' Manufacturer was notified in one case but provided no assistance.
A loud clanking noise occurs when turning the steering wheel left and right, happening 95% of the time. Noise worsens over time. Dealer incorrectly attributed it to power steering fluid (even though the 2012 has an electronic system). Dealer mentioned other Honda models had recalls for driveshaft issues that may apply but refused to cover the repair since this car was not under the applicable recall.
When: No specific mileage cited.
Symptoms owners cite: Loud clanking noise during left and right turns; Noise occurs 95% of the time; Noise worsens progressively
Repairs/costs cited: Dealer unable or unwilling to diagnose or repair under warranty; owner may need to pay out of pocket. Possible driveshaft issue per dealer comment, but not confirmed.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Dealer mentioned a possible recall on driveshaft for other models but stated this vehicle is not covered.
Front lower arm compliance bushings cracked due to leaking. In one case, right front control arm mount and control arm failed completely while driving at low speed, causing the vehicle to become a total loss. Tires have shredded without nail or visible damage. Owner alleges a defect pattern and requests extension of recall (13V288000), but Honda refused to pursue further investigation citing cost concerns.
When: 2019, 2022, 2024 (failures reported during vehicle ownership); low-speed driving when control arm failed.
Symptoms owners cite: Front lower arm compliance bushings cracked; Leaking from bushings; Right front tire shredding without nail or visible damage; Complete right front control arm mount and control arm failure; Vehicle became total loss after control arm failure; Loss of vehicle control at low speed
Repairs/costs cited: Both front lower arm compliance bushings replaced by Honda. Control arm failure resulted in total loss; collateral damage occurred.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Honda was made aware; corporate Honda stated they were taking no action and willing to wait for potential DOT evaluation. Complaint alleges Honda is not pursuing recall extension due to cost concerns.
A 2012 Honda Civic CNG experienced simultaneous failure warnings: CHECK EMISSIONS SYSTEM, CHECK VSA SYSTEM, and CHECK POWER STEERING SYSTEM. Diagnostics identified engine misfire (P0304, cylinder #4). An authorized Honda dealership confirmed a seized spark plug and cylinder head damage, indicating an internal engine defect. Warnings recurred despite attempted repairs. Dealership admitted it lacked proper tools and software to service CNG vehicles. Honda later confirmed internal engine damage. The simultaneous failures create an unsafe driving condition with impaired stability control and power steering.
When: Warnings first appeared approximately 2 weeks after purchase; failures recurred after attempted repair.
Symptoms owners cite: CHECK EMISSIONS SYSTEM warning; CHECK VSA SYSTEM warning; CHECK POWER STEERING SYSTEM warning; Impaired stability control; Impaired power steering; Engine misfire (P0304, cylinder #4); Seized spark plug; Cylinder head damage
Codes mentioned: P0304 (cylinder #4 misfire)
Repairs/costs cited: Dealership attempted repairs July 22–25, 2025; warnings returned. CNG vehicle repairs attempted but tools and software inadequate. Honda later confirmed internal engine damage. Vehicle available for tear-down inspection but not yet inspected by NHTSA.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Honda dealership admitted lack of proper diagnostic and repair capability for CNG vehicles. No recall or warranty resolution mentioned.
Synthesized from 74 NHTSA owner complaints — unverified consumer allegations, summarized for patterns. The verbatim filings appear below.
A few hours ago (2012 civic si) the check power steering system indicator came on as I was leaving the parking lot. It was heck trying to steer back into parking. Called the dealer; but since it was closing time, he advised me to call back in the a.m. The engine seems to be revving itself when I'm in neutral. It's been doing this for several months. This was the first time that the power…
Tl* the contact owns a 2012 Honda civic. The contact stated as the vehicle entered the driveway on an incline the vehicle began to move in reverse. The gear shift was in drive when the failure occurred three times. There was also a clanking noise when the gears changed automatically and whenever the contact made a left or right turn the steering wheel did not return to its normal position. The…
I began to pull out of the parking lot of my workplace to head towards the freeway when suddenly my steering stops working. I work in a very busy area and traffic is very busy. Luckily, there was a red light and that I am a safe driver because if I would have gotten on the freeway I would have most likely gotten into a fatal accident. I am also very fortunate that the weather did not end up…
It's a meaningful issue. 74 complaints have been filed and the failure mode causes operational problems for owners. Repairs average $700.
Across the 56 complaints that reported odometer mileage, most steering failures cluster between 33,100 and 89,687 miles, with the median around 68,000. A quarter of owners report trouble before 33,100; a quarter make it past 89,687. Maintenance history matters more than the odometer alone — this is the reported failure window, not a guarantee.
Independent shops typically charge around $700 for steering repairs on this vehicle. Dealer pricing tends to run 20-40% higher. The exact figure depends on the specific failure mode, parts availability, and your local labor rates. If you're outside factory warranty, an extended service contract often covers this category.
Yes — 1 active recall(s) cover steering issues on this vehicle. Recall fixes are always free regardless of mileage or warranty status. Use the VIN decoder at the top of the page to check if your specific vehicle is affected.