Honda Canada has announced a significant recall affecting approximately 239,000 Honda and Acura vehicles across Canada, including the popular Honda CR-V models. This recall addresses a potential safety issue related to the steering gearbox, which could increase the risk of accidents and injuries. If you own a 2023-2025 Honda CR-V, it’s crucial to understand the details of this recall and what steps you need to take to ensure your safety and the safety of others on the road.
Understanding the Honda CR-V Steering Gearbox Recall
The recall stems from a defect in the steering gearbox worm wheel. According to Honda Canada’s announcement, this component may not have been produced to specification and can be susceptible to swelling when exposed to environmental heat and humidity. This swelling can reduce the critical grease film between the worm wheel and worm gear, leading to increased friction.
Adding to the problem, the worm gear spring reload in affected vehicles was set too high. This further intensifies the sliding force between these components. The combination of these issues can result in excessive friction, which manifests as increased steering effort, difficulty steering, or a sensation of “sticky” steering. This can make controlling the vehicle more challenging, especially in critical driving situations, and significantly raises the risk of a collision or injury.
Which Honda CR-V Models Are Impacted?
This steering gearbox recall affects a range of Honda and Acura models from the 2022 to 2025 model years. Specifically for Honda CR-V owners, the recall includes:
- 2023-2025 Honda CR-V
- 2023-2025 Honda CR-V Hybrid
It’s important to note that while the focus here is on Honda CR-V recalls, other Honda and Acura vehicles are also affected. These include:
- 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 HR-V
- 2023-2025 Acura Integra
- 2024-2025 Acura Integra Type S
If you own any of these models, especially a Honda CR-V within the specified years, you should check if your vehicle is included in the recall.
What Honda CR-V Owners Need to Do
Honda Canada is taking proactive steps to address this issue and ensure the safety of their customers. The repair for this steering gearbox defect will be performed free of charge at authorized Honda and Acura dealerships.
Registered owners of all affected Honda CR-V models, and other impacted vehicles, will be contacted by mail starting in November 2024. This notification will provide instructions on how to schedule a service appointment at your local authorized dealer.
Upon receiving notification, it is crucial to bring your Honda CR-V to an authorized Honda dealer as soon as possible. Dealers will perform the necessary repair, which involves adding grease to the steering gearbox and replacing the worm gear spring with an improved part. This service is designed to resolve the steering issue and restore your vehicle’s safe operation.
In the meantime, Honda Canada has provided resources for owners to check if their vehicle is affected by this recall immediately. You can determine if your Honda CR-V requires repair by visiting the following websites:
Alternatively, you can contact Honda Canada directly by calling their dedicated recall information line at 1-888-946-6329. Have your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) ready when you check online or call to get accurate information about your specific vehicle.
Conclusion: Prioritize Safety and Schedule Your Free Recall Repair
The Honda CR-V recall due to the steering gearbox issue is a serious safety concern that should not be ignored. Increased steering effort and sticky steering can compromise vehicle control and elevate the risk of accidents. Honda Canada is offering a free repair to address this defect, emphasizing their commitment to customer safety.
If you own a 2023-2025 Honda CR-V or any other affected model, please take immediate action to check if your vehicle is included in this recall. Visit the provided websites or call Honda Canada to verify. Once you receive your notification in the mail, promptly schedule an appointment with an authorized Honda dealer to have the free repair completed. Prioritizing this recall will ensure your Honda CR-V operates safely and provides you with peace of mind on every journey.