FAULTBASE
NEWSASKCars
© 2025 FAULTBASE
All rights reserved.
v2.0.0 • Production
ContactPrivacyImpressum
Home/Cars/Honda/Civic/9th Generation (2012-2015)/my Honda Civic steering wheel sticks when turning, what could be the cause

my Honda Civic steering wheel sticks when turning, what could be the cause

Honda Civic 9th Generation (2012-2015)

Severity: highDifficulty: medium2-4 hours
3 min read
510 words

⚠️ Safety Warning

This issue requires immediate attention. If you are not experienced with automotive repairs, consult a professional mechanic. Working on critical systems can be dangerous.

Problem Statement

Learn how to diagnose and fix steering wheel sticking issues in Honda Civic. Step-by-step guide with symptoms, diagnostic steps, and repair instructions.

Component
Steering
Repair Time
2-4 hours

Safety Warnings

  • ⚠Disconnect the battery before working on electrical systems.
  • ⚠Allow the engine to cool before inspecting the power steering components.

Symptoms

  • •Steering wheel feels rigid or unresponsive when turning
  • •Unusual noise (grinding or popping) when steering
  • •Increased effort required to turn the wheel
  • •Steering wheel does not return to center after a turn
  • •Vibration or shaking in the steering wheel

Diagnostic Steps

  1. 1Inspect the power steering fluid level and condition.
  2. 2Check for power steering fluid leaks around hoses and the pump.
  3. 3Examine the steering column for any visible obstructions or damage.
  4. 4Test the power steering pump for proper operation.
  5. 5Inspect the tie rod ends and ball joints for wear or damage.
  6. 6Verify the condition of the steering rack and its mounting points.

Solution

Solution

1. Preparation

  • Gather necessary tools and parts.
  • Park the vehicle on a level surface and engage the parking brake.
  • Disconnect the battery to ensure safety during repairs.

2. Inspect Power Steering Fluid

  • Locate the power steering reservoir.
  • Remove the cap and check fluid level; add manufacturer-recommended fluid if low.
  • Check fluid condition; if it appears dirty or contaminated, it should be replaced.

3. Check for Leaks

  • Inspect all hoses connected to the power steering pump for signs of wear, cracks, or leaks.
  • Tighten any loose hose clamps.
  • Replace any damaged hoses or seals as necessary.

4. Test Power Steering Pump

  • Reconnect the battery.
  • Start the engine and turn the steering wheel from lock to lock.
  • Listen for any abnormal noises from the pump indicating it may need replacement.

5. Inspect Steering Components

  • Raise the front of the vehicle using a jack and secure it with jack stands.
  • Check the tie rod ends and ball joints for play or excessive wear.
  • Replace any worn components with OEM or high-quality aftermarket parts.

6. Steering Rack Inspection

  • Examine the steering rack for leaks or damage.
  • Ensure that all mounting bolts are torqued to the manufacturer’s specifications.
  • Replace the steering rack if significant damage or wear is found.

Verification

After completing the repair, verify that the issue has been resolved:

  • Test the affected component to ensure it functions correctly
  • Check for any error codes or warning lights
  • Monitor the vehicle for a few days to ensure the issue does not recur

Prevention Tips

To prevent this issue from occurring again:

  • •Follow the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule
  • •Address warning signs early before they develop into major issues
  • •Use quality parts and fluids recommended for your vehicle
  • •Keep detailed records of all repairs and maintenance

Tools & Equipment Required

  • Socket set
  • Torque wrench
  • Screwdriver set
  • Power steering fluid
  • Jack and jack stands

Parts Required

  • Power steering fluid
  • Replacement hoses (if damaged)
  • Tie rod ends (if worn)
  • Steering rack (if damaged)

Additional Information

Component

Steering

Repair Time

2-4 hours

Difficulty

medium

Severity

high

Tools

5 items

Parts

4 items

Related Faults

Discover similar issues

  1. why does my Honda Civic 9th Generation (2012-2015) brake pedal feel spongy and goes to the floor

    Learn how to diagnose and fix a spongy brake pedal in Honda Civic 9th Generation (2012-2015). Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repair...

    Component:Brakes
    Symptoms
    • •Spongy brake pedal feel
    • •Brake pedal travels to the floor
    • +{count} more
  2. how to troubleshoot Honda Civic 9th Generation (2012-2015) electrical issues

    Learn how to troubleshoot and fix electrical issues in Honda Civic 9th Generation (2012-2015). Step-by-step guide with diagnostic steps and solutions.

    Component:Electrical
    Symptoms
    • •Dashboard warning lights illuminated
    • •Power windows failing to operate
    • +{count} more
  3. why does my Honda Civic 9th Generation (2012-2015) vibrate when braking

    Learn how to diagnose and fix braking vibrations in Honda Civic 9th Generation (2012-2015). Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repair i...

    Component:Brakes
    Symptoms
    • •Vibrations felt through the steering wheel or brake pedal when applying brakes
    • •Increased stopping distance
    • +{count} more
  4. how to tell if my Honda Civic 9th Generation (2012-2015) wheel bearing is bad

    Learn how to diagnose and fix wheel bearing issues in Honda Civic 9th Generation (2012-2015). Step-by-step guide with symptoms, diagnostic steps, and ...

    Component:Suspension
    Symptoms
    • •Unusual grinding or humming noise while driving, especially during turns
    • •Vibration or wobbling felt through the steering wheel
    • +{count} more
  5. how can I tell if my Honda Civic 9th Generation (2012-2015) needs a new catalytic converter?

    P0420

    Learn how to diagnose and replace the catalytic converter in a Honda Civic 9th Generation (2012-2015). Step-by-step guide with symptoms and tools requ...

    Component:Exhaust System
    Symptoms
    • •Check engine light illuminated
    • •Decreased engine performance or loss of power
    • +{count} more
  6. what are the symptoms of a bad wheel bearing on Honda Civic 9th Generation (2012-2015)

    Discover the symptoms of a bad wheel bearing on Honda Civic 9th Generation (2012-2015) and learn how to diagnose and fix the issue with our step-by-st...

    Component:Suspension
    Symptoms
    • •Grinding or humming noise that increases with vehicle speed
    • •Vibration in the steering wheel or through the vehicle
    • +{count} more

Share this solution

Comments

Sign in to share your thoughts

Sign In

No comments yet

Be the first to share your thoughts

Back to Generation