2018 Honda CR-V Steering Problems

Vehicle •Year: 2018 •Make: Honda •Model: CR-V Touring AWD •VIN: [XXX] •Mileage when failure occurred: 125,934 miles •Date repaired: XXX Component: Steering / power steering / steering rack I own a 2018 Honda CR-V Touring AWD with 125,934 miles. The vehicle developed a sticky, jerky, popping steering condition when turning, and the steering rack/gearbox required replacement. On September 10, 2026, the steering rack was replaced. The repair invoice identifies the part as Honda Rack Assembly, Power Steering (EPS), part number 53620-TLA-A13. The steering rack alone cost $3,895.99, and the total repair cost was $5,046.20 including labor, tie rods, hazardous materials and tax. I contacted Honda regarding the steering problem because Honda previously recalled certain 2017–2018 CR-V vehicles for a steering gearbox problem under NHTSA recall 18V-663. Honda refused my recall claim and subsequently refused my request for goodwill assistance. I am submitting this complaint because I believe a complete electronic power-steering rack/gearbox failure at 125,934 miles is a significant safety concern and should be documented. I am also concerned about whether other 2017–2018 CR-V vehicles may experience similar steering-rack failures. The vehicle was repaired and is currently operating with the replacement steering rack. The invoice attached is in our son’s name because we are in the process of giving him the vehicle and if there is an issue with the repair he could take the car back to the repair vendor. We do have the replaced part if that is of any help to you. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA ID

11766437

Incident

Sep 10, 2026

The contact owns a 2018 Honda CR-V. The contact stated that while driving 55 MPH and turning right, the steering wheel was sticking. The failure was a recurring failure. The contact associated the failure with NHTSA Campaign Number: 18V663000 (Steering); however, the VIN was not included in the recall. The dealer was contacted and stated that the cost of the repair was not covered because the VIN was not included in the recall. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic and was diagnosed with steering gearbox failure. The independent mechanic associated the failure with the recall. The failure mileage was approximately 52,000.

NHTSA ID

11765020

Incident

Mar 4, 2025

Mileage

52,000 mi

Steering sticking in the mid position on highway speeds

NHTSA ID

11763986

Incident

Sep 2, 2026

Sticky steering especially at highway speeds and when air temp in hot. Stickiness is now apparent at slower speeds in hot wx. Current Recall is only for 2023-2025. This CRV is 2018. Problem has been apparent for over a year. Local dealer could not replicate issue on two occasions when car was in Honda dealership.

NHTSA ID

11762210

Incident

Jul 15, 2025

Honda 2018 crv with approx 56,000 miles began to have a sticky steering issue. It feels like it causes the car to wander in the driving lane, especially at highway speeds. Making the driver constantly correct the vehicle to keep a strait line. But in reality it seems to over-correct the steering which makes it feel impossible keep a strait line while driving. The steering is not smooth during the minor adjustment. It feels like there is a lack of lubrication somewhere in the linkage. The steering wheel actually makes a creaking, or clicking noise when turned slowly. After searching into the issue, I see it a common complaint among owners of the same vehicle. All complaints appear to have the same symptoms with the sticky, rough feel of the steering wheel. Turning corners seems very normal. Highway driving, or straight roads, with the steering wheel at the center positon, doesnt hold the vehicle straight causing sticky corrections. Living in the midwest, the issue isnt as noticeable in the winter months. But in warmer weather it is very prevalent. This vehicle has never been in an accident.

NHTSA ID

11762098

Incident

Jun 1, 2025

This car has the same Steering Rack sticking problem for this Model and year that there is a recall for but the VIN for this car is not included in the recall. The problem has been confirmed by a Honda dealer. They want me to pay close to $5,000 to repair it. They told me to reach out to HNTSA. Hoping you can correct this. Thank you, [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA ID

11759231

Incident

Jun 1, 2026

The steering on my 2018 Honda CR-V intermittently sticks around the center position. When making small steering corrections, the steering wheel does not move smoothly and requires additional force to move past the center position. This creates difficulty making precise steering corrections and is a safety concern, particularly at highway speeds. I am concerned about a potential steering gearbox/EPS steering defect. I contacted Honda Customer Service regarding this issue, but Honda denied assistance because there is currently no recall associated with my VIN. I am requesting that NHTSA investigate whether this represents a safety-related defect affecting 2018 Honda CR-V vehicles. I want to report this as a potential safety defect and Honda should rectify with their own cost. This is similar to hundreds of other complaints.

NHTSA ID

11757564

Incident

Aug 1, 2026

I am writing to report a severe, premature safety defect in the steering system of my 2018 Honda CR-V.While attempting to turn the vehicle,I noticed an audible grinding sound accompanied by a distinct feeling of "stickiness" and resistance in the steering wheel. Despite being a low-mileage vehicle with approximately 54,412 miles,the vehicle's steering has experienced a significant mechanical failure.Two independent, certified mechanics have thoroughly inspected the vehicle and confirmed that the steering column assembly has failed internally and requires a complete replacement.Both mechanics stated that the mileage was too low for this kind of issue.There were no warning lamps or messages prior to the failure, nor have any began occurring.The vehicle was last inspected in April of 2026 by the Honda dealership and passed.The failed steering column causes unpredictable mechanical binding, grinding, and a sticky sensation while turning.This creates a severe safety hazard as the steering wheel catches and requires increased physical effort to steer safely, significantly increasing the imminent risk of a collision or loss of vehicle control.The failure occurred under normal driving conditions without any prior collision or external damage.I have official diagnostic reports from two separate repair facilities confirming this diagnosis.There is currently a very limited existing steering recall for this generation (NHTSA Campaign 18V663000),but my VIN is excluded despite exhibiting identical hazardous symptoms.I am requesting that the NHTSA investigate this widespread steering column/gearbox failure trend in 2018 Honda CR-Vs to force an expanded safety recall before a catastrophic accident occurs.I contacted Honda's official recall department to report this defect.The representative documented the issue but stated there was nothing further they could do.When I asked if the case could be reviewed for a potential recall, I was told there is no formal process.

NHTSA ID

11757131

Incident

Aug 5, 2026

The steering on my 2018 Honda CR-V intermittently sticks around the center position. When making small steering corrections, the steering wheel does not move smoothly and requires additional force to move past the center position. This creates difficulty making precise steering corrections and is a safety concern, particularly at highway speeds. I am concerned about a potential steering gearbox/EPS steering defect. I contacted Honda Customer Service regarding this issue, but Honda denied assistance because there is currently no recall associated with my VIN. I am requesting that NHTSA investigate whether this represents a safety-related defect affecting 2018 Honda CR-V vehicles. I want to report this as a potential safety defect and honda should rectify with their own cost.

NHTSA ID

11756141

Incident

Jul 2, 2026

Vehicle steering wheel would eventually seize up, then snap out while driving on all types of roads, causing the whole car to jerk left or right. Happens at all speeds on any road type Upon inspection from Schofield Honda in Wichita KS, they determined that it was the electronic power steering module that failed and needed to be replaced. A $4,949.31 bill for parts and labor. This vehicle just hit 51,000 miles so not new necessarily, but for something to make the vehicle inoperable while driving... There were no warning lamps, message, anything at all and progressivly got worse the more it was driven over the span of a month

NHTSA ID

11753959

Incident

Jun 1, 2026

There is an ongoing problem with the electric power steering on my 2018 Honda CR-V that has begun malfunctioning. The steering sticks near the center position and requires additional force before it releases. When it releases, the steering changes from tight to loose, making it easy to overcorrect. It sometimes feels as though gears are catching inside the steering system. There is also a clicking or cracking sound when the steering wheel is turned, along with occasional creaking during slow turns, such as when leaving a driveway. The condition makes it difficult to make small steering corrections and could cause the vehicle to leave its lane or become difficult to control. The symptoms have become more noticeable and create a safety concern during normal driving. An independent mechanic scanned the vehicle with a diagnostic scanner and reported a fault involving the electric power-steering system. The exact diagnostic code is unavailable. The vehicle has not yet been inspected by Honda, and the failed component has not yet been replaced. The vehicle and steering components remain available for inspection upon request. No power-steering warning lamp was observed before the symptoms began. Honda previously issued NHTSA Campaign 18V-663 and Service Bulletin 18-103 involving steering-gearbox failure in certain 2017–2018 CR-V vehicles. My vehicle is not included in that recall despite exhibiting similar steering symptoms. Other 2018 CR-V owners outside the recall population have reported sticking, clicking, and confirmed steering-rack or steering-gearbox failures. I am requesting that NHTSA investigate whether the recall population should be expanded.

NHTSA ID

11752162

Incident

Jan 2, 2026

1. Steering, yes 2. Momentary hesitation to steer, until sudden release 3. No couldn’t reproduce 4. No have appt July 27,2026 with Honda service dept 5. Tire pressure light came on afterwards

NHTSA ID

11752118

Incident

Jul 20, 2026

While driving straight and then attempting to make a Lane Change or take an Off Ramp or On Ramp the Steering would require extra effort to make the vehicle do what was needed. The Assist Features were OFF at the time. I took the vehicle into Jim White Honda, Maumee, OH and what they found was in line with the 2017, 2018 Honda CRV recall for "STICKY STEERING". They informed me that my VIN was not included in the recall even though it demonstrated the same problem and the procedure to repair the vehicle was the exact procedure in the recall. How can the Recall exclude certain VIN numbers when the exhibit the same issue as the recall?

NHTSA ID

11751584

Incident

Jul 1, 2026

The steering wheel is jerking or sticking and now it is making a clicking noise when slightly going left or coming back from the left. After reading on line there is a lot of the same problem going on with others. It ended up the Steering Gearbox and from your site 5 out of 5 things has been recalled with this type of Honda CRV #5 was a recall for the steering. It said consumers were not notified.

NHTSA ID

11751208

Incident

Jun 22, 2026

The contact owns a 2018 Honda CR-V. The contact stated while driving 30 MPH, attempting to come around a curve on the right side she could feel hesitation in the steering wheel and the vehicle began to maneuver in the opposite No warning lights illuminated. A dealer was contacted. The vehicle was taken to a dealer where it was diagnosed the electrical steering rack assembly needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact mention that the failure has occurred on several different occasions The contact was relating to the NHTSA Campaign Number: 18V663000 (STEERING), however the VIN was not included in the recall. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, and they offered no assistance. The approximate failure mileage was 66,102.

NHTSA ID

11751080

Incident

Jul 15, 2019

Mileage

66,102 mi

While driving, the vehicle will drift to the left and I have to pull on the steering wheel to correct. Tires are aligned, so this is not the problem. When I correct the drift to the left, the car is jerky with my correction. Even passengers in the car feel the jerk. This happens frequently while driving. Took car to local mechanic and he said there was a safety recall notice for the 2017-18 CR-V Steering gearbox. Contacted the local Honda dealer, but they stated my VIN does not have a recall for this. My car is experiencing the exact problem stated in the recall notice. The repair is costly and if there is a recall I need help with identifying this with Honda.

NHTSA ID

11751037

Incident

Apr 6, 2026

My 2018 Honda CRV is experiencing steering problems it started a year ago and has gotten progressively worse. There has been no warning lights or messages. When turning the steering wheel it feel stiff, resistance and I hear creaking noise during the turn. I know on some 2017 and 2018 Honda CRV's there was a recall involving steering components. I called the Honda dealership and they said it wasn't part of the recall. I have been on multiple sites where people are complaining with the same issue. This is definitely a safety hazard and could be dangerous. I wanted to make sure this was documented because I know I am not the only one.

NHTSA ID

11750387

Incident

Jul 1, 2025

I started noticing my steering being sticky and jerky around May 1, 2026. The problem has become more severe (especially when making a large turning circle on interstate highway) so I took my vehicle to Jay Wolfe Honda on July 6, 2026. They identified the problem as a failed EPS Gear box assembly. Part 53620-TLA-A13. They replaced it at a parts cost of $4030.32 and labor $1050. Also did alignment for $149.95 I became concerned that I might lose control of the vehicle. I inquired and found Honda had an issue with the 2018 CRV and did a recall for this part, however, they said my vehicle wasn't included. I think Honda should compensate me for this repair. The vehicle only has 82000 miles on it. I have the invoice they but I am not savy enough to upload with this form, I can provide to an email address if you provide one

NHTSA ID

11750040

Incident

May 1, 2026

2018 CRV owned since 2020 has had air bag and fuel filter recalls completed but now has another known defect that requires recall/repair: steering gear box. Two months ago, the steering wheel started to "stick" requiring driver to exert additional force to the steering wheel to direct the vehicle in the desired direction. There is an audible "tick or click" when the steering "catches" and pulls to one side or the other. There was no causal incident that started the issue that began occurring during normal driving conditions. The "sticking/catching" of the steering wheel is still ongoing every time the CRV is driven. The steering does not perform properly. It is a dangerous malfunction of the steering gear box assembly that needs to be addressed by American Honda with recall repairs to all affected vehicles. My VIN number is not covered by current recalls. With CRV recalls of the steering gear box for multiple production years identifying that part as a known defect, all affected CRVs should be covered. These are bits of information that may be helpful. NTHSA campaign #18V663000 steering Recall #24V-744 Honda Service Bulletin A2411 American Honda: 1-800-999-1009 For each report here there are likely thousands who are having the same issues. I have owned Hondas since 1990 and am discouraged to find that a known defect is not covered for my newest CRV.

NHTSA ID

11749229

Incident

May 4, 2026

Steering is sticky.

NHTSA ID

11749018

Incident

Jun 1, 2026

Here’s the revised version with that important detail added naturally: For the past two years, my vehicle has experienced the same recurring steering problem during long highway trips. The issue consistently begins after approximately 1–2.5 hours of highway driving and always occurs during very hot or humid weather. The steering wheel starts to stick when making small corrections while driving straight, feeling as though it moves in notches instead of smoothly. Once the problem starts, it continues for the remainder of the trip, even after leaving the highway and driving at lower speeds. This has happened on multiple long trips over the last two years, typically toward the end of extended drives in hot or humid conditions. During some incidents, the steering wheel also produced a clicking noise each time it moved into a notched position. The sticking and clicking make it difficult to make small steering adjustments and create a jerky, clunky steering feel, especially on narrow or curvy roads, making the vehicle feel unsafe to drive. To rule out other causes, we replaced all four tires, but the problem continued exactly as before. There have never been any warning lights or dashboard messages associated with this issue. After researching the problem, we found information about EPS gearbox recalls affecting newer CR-V models. We discussed our symptoms with our mechanic, who agreed that the problem sounds consistent with an Electric Power Steering (EPS) issue and recommended reporting it to NHTSA. Because the problem only develops after extended highway driving in hot or humid conditions, it is difficult to reproduce during a typical short test drive. This wording makes it clear that the weather connection isn’t just a possibility—it has been a consistent pattern every time the issue occurs.

NHTSA ID

11748648

Incident

Jul 3, 2026

Crown Honda diagnosed my used 2018 CR-V I purchased on 07/05/2021, with a defective gearbox, on a vehicle with only 34,400 miles. A failing steering rack is not a standard wear and tear component like tires. It is a critical vehicle safety component. The steering gearbox should last the lifetime of the vehicle. Premature mechanical binding constitutes an unreasonable safety risk. Honda explicitly recalled 1.7 million newer CR-Vs for an improperly produced steering gearbox worm wheel that swells and creates excessive internal friction. I have a 5'th generation CR-V sharing the same foundational electronic power steering (EPS) architecture, and it is experiencing the exact same "notchy/sticky"e mechanical friction failure.

NHTSA ID

11747922

Incident

Jul 1, 2026

The contact owns a 2018 Honda CR-V. The contact stated that while driving 65 MPH, the steering wheel jerked and failed to turn in the intended direction. The failure had occurred on several occasions. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was diagnosed and determined that the steering gear box had failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not yet repaired. The contact associated the failure with NHTSA Campaign Number: 18V663000 (STEERING); however, the VIN was not included in the recall. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and offered to partially cover the cost of the repair. The failure mileage was approximately 36,000.

NHTSA ID

11747909

Incident

Jul 2, 2024

Mileage

36,000 mi

-The steering wheel is sticking, especially at highway speeds, causing the wheel to jerk even on straight and smooth roads. -The problem has been reported online, but Honda only fixed 54 from NHTSA campaign number: 18v663000 -I am taking the vehicle in to be inspected but reviewing online complaints, this fix is thousands of dollars that I cannot afford -There have been no warning lights or messages for this

NHTSA ID

11747888

Incident

Jul 1, 2026

Power steering issue with vehicle wanting to veer left and having to jerk the wheel back to keep from crossing the center line. There was a previous recall by Honda (18V663000) but my vehicle is not listed. This began at about 75K miles. For the year, this is a low mileage car and this is becoming dangerous to drive because of the steering issue.

NHTSA ID

11747589

Incident

Jun 4, 2026