Steering Problems of Honda Pilot - part 1

When turning steering there is a clicking noise almost like a spring clicking on a gear. It is sound like it is coming from under the middle part where the airbag sits. Not sure if it is the airbag mechanism that it is the attached to the steering or a faulty clock spring.

After going over a railroad track, at 15mph, several warning sensors appeared. Including brakes, power steering and several more flashed quickly. Power steering failed and I could not turn my wheel. It told me to not drive and see a dealer. Luckily I was in traffic and it was moving slow. I was able to turn my car off and back on and all the senor systems cleared. I took my car to the dealer, which it is at now, and they cant find a problem outside of wheel sensor going off in history. I dont feel safe with this car.

See all problems of the 2024 Honda Pilot 🔎.

I own a 2023 Honda Pilot. On two separate occasions while the vehicle was being driven, the vehicle experienced multiple system warnings and a significant loss of steering assistance. The first incident occurred before July 16, 2026, at approximately 40,605 miles. While my wife was driving, multiple warning lights illuminated and the steering wheel suddenly became extremely stiff and difficult to turn, although the engine remained running. She was able to pull over, turn the vehicle off, and restart it. After the restart, the warning lights disappeared and the steering returned to normal. I brought the vehicle to john eagle Honda of dallas on July 16, 2026. The dealer's repair order documents: “customer states multiple lights came on while driving and steering wheel got really stiff but vehicle was still running. ” the dealer reported that it performed a battery check and charging-system test, found no stored diagnostic trouble codes, could not duplicate the condition during a test drive, and performed no repair. The problem occurred again on September 8, 2026, at approximately 42,511 miles while my wife was driving. Once again, the steering became extremely difficult to operate. During this second incident, my wife also reported that the brakes were not functioning normally. Multiple warning lights and system-failure messages appeared simultaneously. Photographs were taken of the instrument cluster before the condition cleared. One message specifically stated: “electric power steering system problem. Steering assist not available. Do not drive. ” another stated: “awd all wheel drive system problem. Only front wheels may be powered. See your dealer. ” the instrument cluster also displayed additional warning indicators associated with other vehicle systems. This is particularly concerning because the failure has now occurred twice while the vehicle was being driven. Turning the vehicle off and restarting it has caused the symptoms and warnings to disappear.

See all problems of the 2023 Honda Pilot 🔎.

Lost power on steering wheel while driving, unable to turn left/right. All of the warning lights related to braking, lane assist, hill descent, adaptive cruise control, trailer stability assist, hill start assist, low speed breaking, auto-high beam, parking sensor detector, etc. . "all wheel drive system problem. Only front wheels may be powered. See your dealer. ".

See all problems of the 2025 Honda Pilot 🔎.

While driving to work this morning. Rate of speed under 45 mph with no apparent issues. Suddenly warning lights on the dash lit up and steering became difficult. Three separate information warnings: lane keeping assist problem, electric power steering problem, adaptive cruise control problem. I was able to continue to drive the 3 miles to work. Had to use 2 hands and pull hard on the steering wheel to pull into the parking lot from the street. Actually had to stop the car, turn it off and restart it just to get into a parking space. Turned engine off twice, both times all warning lights came back on on the dash when I restarted the car. I only have 29,043 miles on this vehicle. It was unsettling to find myself in an unsafe situation today.

When turning the steering wheel a clicking sound happen full lock both ways.

Steering wheel makes a clicking/spring noise when turning, especially at low speeds.

A critical failure in the direct fuel injection system caused severe engine misfiring, sudden loss of drive power, and a cascade failure that disabled safety systems during vehicle operation. Diagnostic scan confirmed dtcs p0172 (fuel system rich) and p0301 (cylinder 1 misfire). In response to the misfire, the vehicle's computer automatically disabled the electronic power steering (eps), vehicle stability assist (vsa), and sh-awd systems (diagnostic codes u0401-68, u0416-68). This is a known manufacturing defect involving internal injector wear and high-pressure fuel pump debris (detailed in Honda TSB 20-100). The sudden loss of engine responsiveness paired with the simultaneous disengagement of traction and steering assists while driving creates an immediate crash hazard. Because Honda currently limits this repair to a 10-year warranty extension rather than a mandatory safety recall, vehicles with low mileage are experiencing sudden safety-assist shutdowns on the road without manufacturer remedy.

See all problems of the 2016 Honda Pilot 🔎.

While driving on my way home from work (24 mile drive) I received on my dashboard faults that flashed briefly for my steering, lane keeping assistance, lane departure, forward collision, automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control and parking collision (warning lamps). My radio also had cut out at the same time. While that occurred my steering wheel jerked suddenly while going straight at speeds around 60mph. I brushed it off as a communication issue since it is known to occur on these vehicles, but the steering wheel jerking was new to me. Made it home turned the vehicle off (vehicle was off for 15 minutes). I started up the vehicle no warning lamps came on. But as soon as I got up to 40mph and a mile from my home the same issue occurred but more frequent, but less of the steering wheel jerking. I got where I needed to go and got back onto the road and reached 30 mph the warning lamps came on more a lot more frequently on my way home. As soon as reached my alleyway turning left, the steering wheel had a moment of locking up (about 5-10mph). This came as a shock for me. I backed up into my garage and had to turn the steering wheel left again and the same thing happened. I parked the while the vehicle was running I turned the steering wheel really fast, recreated the steering wheel locking momentarily a few times. I turned the vehicle off and tried to restart it but there was no power. Turns out that my battery had gone bad. I had no indication of a low voltage or battery issue. I replaced the battery and issue was resolved. For me and a situationally unaware driver and this issue occurs where the steering wheel jerked and/or an emergency evasive action was needed, this could cause an accident due to the sudden loss of steering. There was no indication of battery issues. No dealer or independent shops were involved. I am a mechanic myself.

See all problems of the 2020 Honda Pilot 🔎.

During a routine trip thru the [xxx]/[xxx] section of [xxx] our 2025 Honda Pilot suddenly lost power steering capability, we could hardly control the vehicle and had to manage an exist to a side street. We received a message on the dash board of a lost of power steering assistance and to notify the dealer. We shut the car off, restarted and gained control of the vehicle less the lane departure feature. At this time we made an appointment with fred beans in abington for service, we have lost confidence in the vehicles safety after this incident. Information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u. S. C. 552(b)(6).

I was driving on a somewhat bumpy road (due to construction works in that location), when suddenly several warning lights came on. Driver assist was disabled, power steering and electrical braking were disabled as well. I was driving at 10mph (this was at a roundabout) so was able to control the vehicle and safely navigate it to a place where I could park. I turned off the vehicle and waited a few moments. When I turned it back on the warning lights cleared and I had power steering wheel/brake control as normal. I brought the vehicle to a certified Honda service station first thing in the morning. The report states an error code c0051-96 has occurred. The wheel sensor was recalibrated and the vehicle was cleared to drive by a Honda certified technician.

I am filing this complaint regarding my new Honda Pilot with only approximately 300 miles. The vehicle has multiple serious problems that I believe should be investigated as potential safety defects. Steering/rack clicking: the steering system produces a loud clicking/rattling noise that sounds like loose marbles, especially at low speeds and during slow turns. This appears to come from the steering rack/steering assembly. There are multiple reports from Honda Pilot owners on online forums describing the same or very similar steering noise dating back to the 2023 redesign. It is extremely concerning that the issue continues in newer vehicles. A potential defect involving the steering system could affect steering control and represents a serious safety concern. Transmission jerking: the transmission jerks, lurches, and rocks the vehicle at low speeds, particularly when shifting into drive, reverse, and between 1st and 2nd gear. There is sometimes hesitation followed by an abrupt engagement. Unexpected movement during parking, reversing, or stop-and-go traffic could create a safety risk. A/c not cooling: the a/c is not properly cooling the cabin and has a condenser/refrigerant leak. In extreme temperatures, inadequate cabin cooling can also become a safety concern, particularly for children and other vulnerable passengers. It is unacceptable for a vehicle with only 300 miles to have these significant issues. Given the multiple owner reports and the apparent persistence of the steering problem across model years, I strongly believe NHTSA should investigate these complaints and determine whether Honda should be required to conduct a safety recall. Honda should not wait for accidents or injuries before taking action. If these are widespread defects, Honda should issue a recall and provide a permanent repair to affected owners. I am requesting that NHTSA investigate these issues and take appropriate action to protect Honda Pilot owners and the public.

The steering box has failed twice in under 60000 miles 53601-tg7-a02.

See all problems of the 2022 Honda Pilot 🔎.

Steering wheel makes a clicking noise. The internal steering rack or the cable reel (clock spring) behind the wheel.

The steering wheel became extremely difficult for my husband to turn. Power steering went out on my 2025 Honda Pilot trailsport. Numerous warnings were then displayed on the vehicle's dashboard screen, it was impossible to drive, and caused us to have to get towed. We had it towed to a Honda dealer for repair, where it was discovered that the steering wheel had more turns in one direction than the other, the shaft boot was misplaced, non-factory pins on the steering rack were noted, and the clock spring was stuck reading 508 degrees. Furthermore, the steering wheel rack gearbox had to be replaced following a steering angle sensor failure in my 2025 Honda Pilot trailsport. This is a serious safety issue and should have never have happened in such a new vehicle. This incident not only put my family's lives at risk, but also everyone else on the roadway. Why did my vehicle that I bought brand new and have only serviced at Honda have non-factory parts?.

While driving my 2025 Honda Pilot at normal road speeds, multiple warning messages suddenly appeared on the dashboard, including steering system warnings. The steering wheel became extremely difficult to turn and felt as though it had locked, creating a serious safety hazard. I had very limited ability to steer the vehicle and could have lost control, especially if this had occurred at higher speeds or in traffic. The vehicle had to be towed to a Honda dealership for inspection. I was informed there were issues involving the steering system, including the steering rack/rack and pinion, and an alignment was recommended. The estimated repair cost was approximately $5,900, and I was told the warranty would not cover the repair even though this appears to be an internal component failure. The failed components are available for inspection upon request. I believe this is a serious safety defect because a sudden loss of steering control while driving could easily result in a crash, serious injury, or death.

Started up vehicle, and (all the bashboard warning lights illuminated),tsa,check engine light,power steering, brake lights. . . . . All of them. Doors won't lock, and the raido stays on, even when the vehicle is completely turned off. Vehicle purchased on:12/02/2024. 3 miles on the odometer. Currently 14,000 miles. . Honda corporation attempting not honor the warranty. $8400 dollars, to fix,and to contact my insurance company, and claim rodent damage; I, wouldn't have to pay, the insurance company will cover the cost.

Steering wheel started making a clicking noise after a couple hundred miles. Dealer replaced clock spring and wrapped in felt tape. I could hear the felt tape a few days later when turning the wheel, and the clicking returned within a few hundred miles, returned to dealer again and they replaced clock spring again and wrapped in felt tape. The issue was only fixed for 1 day before I started hearing the felt tape when turning the wheel.

While driving roughly 15 mph, my car displayed emergency messages, brake applied automatically by the vehicle and the power steering failed. In order for me to get out of the way of traffic in an intersection, I had to veer to the opposite side of the road passing oncoming traffic. The following lights were displayed "tsa, hill start assist problem vehicle may roll upon brake release, vehicle stability assist problem reduced traction and handling, brake system problem brake system reduced, electric power steering problem steering assist not available do not drive" vehicle has had no issues and only has 6,460 miles on it. Car is currently waiting to be towed to the dealership.

Clicking sound when turning steering wheel.

On xxx, while my wife was driving our 2017 Honda Pilot elite (VIN: [xxx]) southbound on [xxx], approaching the intersection with [xxx], the vehicle experienced a complete engine stall due to the auto idle stop feature. The engine shut off at a stop but failed to automatically restart when she released the brake to proceed. All dashboard warning lights flashed, and the vehicle became inoperable in the middle of traffic, creating a significant traffic jam at a busy intersection. My wife was able to restart the vehicle manually by shifting to park and pressing the engine start/stop button. This is part of a persistent safety defect with the auto idle stop (idle stop-start) system. The vehicle has stalled multiple times in traffic and on highways since new. Honda performed TSB 23-008 (pgm-fi idle stop software update/product update campaign) on xxx at autopark Honda in cary, nc, but the issue was not resolved. I also replaced the battery in November 2024 at the dealership's recommendation, but the no-restart/stall problem continues. I normally keep the auto idle stop feature disabled for safety, but my wife forgot on this occasion. **cause:** unknown (per Honda tsbs 23-008 and 23-009, the issue relates to excessive cylinder pressure and/or low cranking torque after idle stop engages; prior fixes have not resolved it). This defect creates a dangerous situation where the vehicle can unexpectedly lose power in traffic, increasing collision risk. I have reported this to the dealership multiple times and am seeking resolution under TSB 23-009 (warranty extension). Information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u. S. C. 552(b)(6).

See all problems of the 2017 Honda Pilot 🔎.

The 3. 5l v6 engine in this vehicle suffered a sudden, catastrophic internal mechanical failure due to premature connecting rod bearing wear. The engine stalling occurred abruptly while actively driving, which created an immediate safety risk as the vehicle lost propulsion, power steering assistance, and power braking assistance. This forced a dangerous emergency maneuver to navigate through moving traffic to get to the side of the road. Prior to the engine failure, there were no persistent dashboard warning lights or clear messages indicating an imminent mechanical failure. The first distinct symptom was a brief, sudden metallic knocking sound from the engine bay immediately before the vehicle lost all power and stalled. An authorized dealership has since inspected the vehicle and dropped the oil pan, physically confirming a massive accumulation of metal shavings and bearing debris inside the block. The dealership verified that the complete destruction of the engine block is identical in nature, symptom, and cause to the manufacturing defects described in NHTSA recall campaign 23v-751. However, this vehicle's specific VIN was excluded from that original recall parameter. This catastrophic failure directly corresponds to the ongoing office of defects investigation probe pe25008 regarding extensive v6 engine rod bearing failures. The failed engine block remains fully intact at the service center and is available for regulatory inspection upon request.

With about 59,800 miles, a rattling noise under the driver's side of the car began near the end of June, 2026 and gradually became louder, specially on bumpier streets. By the last week of July 2026, the steering started getting erratically stiffer becoming harder to control the direction of the vehicle. A neighborhood mechanic replaced the inner & outer tire rods but this didn't resolve the problem. I brought the vehicle to the dealership, "Honda of harvey" and was informed that the steering mechanism was failing including the steering rack and would cost $5,000 to repair. Internet searches revealed that many 2023 Honda Pilots and some 2022 Pilots had been recalled for this same problems. My vehicle wasn't but apparently should have.

Slowed down to turn right into a parking lot, power steering suddenly disabled and multiple warning lights appeared on dash. Warning messages stating auto brake system disabled, lane departure assist disabled, hill assist and start disabled, and more warning lights. Steering suddenly became difficult and dangerous with moving traffic behind me. Pulled into a parking lot and restarted car multiple times. After more than 10 minutes and restarting vehicle, power steering came back.

A stuck ignition lock cylinder on a 2005 Honda Pilot. Hello I purchased this car from the second owner and they had the ignition lock replaced less than 2 years ago. This device has now failed again. Its a poor design by Honda and was never fixed or recalled. This has lead countless people to be stranded. With repairs upwords of $500.

See all problems of the 2005 Honda Pilot 🔎.

Vehicle: 2026 Honda Pilot elite awd current mileage: ~3,850 miles persistent component defect and failure within the steering column assembly, specifically involving the steering clock spring (cable reel assembly). The vehicle experiences an audible clicking, rattling, and binding sensation during normal steering wheel rotation. Authorized Honda dealership warranty repairs have failed to remedy the issue due to replacement parts failing immediately upon installation.   chronology of failures: 1- 05/04/2026 (2,078 miles): vehicle brought to hennessy Honda for stiff steering and a loud clicking noise. Technicians noted the steering cable gear was making noise and binding. The column was adjusted.   2- 05/20/2026 (2,509 miles): clicking worsened significantly across full left-to-center rotations. The dealership diagnosed a defective clock spring and replaced the cable reel assembly (part: 77900-t20-e61).   3- 06/08/2026 (3,847 miles): the brand-new replacement part failed immediately. Vehicle returned with identical clicking and a new "whoosh" plastic scraping noise. Dealership replaced misadjusted steering column trim pieces to stop the scraping but confirmed the steering wheel click remains active.   safety risk: the dealership service department explicitly stated that the current production batch of factory replacement clock springs contains an inherent manufacturer defect, meaning new replacements fail out of the box. The clock spring maintains the continuous electrical connection to the driver’s steering wheel airbag, horn, and driver-assist controls. A mechanically binding ribbon cable reel presents an imminent risk of snapping or shorting out. If the cable fails on the road, it will instantly deactivate the driver's front airbag, rendering a critical safety restraint system useless in a crash.   requested action: compel Honda to investigate 2026 Pilot manufacturing lines, fast-track an updated/redesigned cable reel part number, and issue a safety recall.

Intermittent severe shaking in steering wheel while driving at various speeds. No warning. Vehicle has less than 500 miles.

Vehicle: 2026 Honda Pilot elite awd current mileage: ~3,850 VIN: [xxx] ——— defect summary: persistent component defect and failure within the steering column assembly, specifically involving the steering clock spring (cable reel assembly). The vehicle experiences an audible clicking, rattling, and binding sensation during normal steering wheel rotation. Authorized Honda dealership warranty repairs have failed to remedy the issue due to replacement parts failing immediately upon installation.   chronology of failures: 1. [xxx] (2,078 miles): vehicle brought to hennessy Honda for stiff steering and a loud clicking noise. Technicians noted the steering cable gear was making noise and binding. The column was adjusted.   2. 05/20/2026 (2,509 miles): clicking worsened significantly across full left-to-center rotations. The dealership diagnosed a defective clock spring and replaced the cable reel assembly (part: 77900-t20-e61).   3. [xxx] (3,847 miles): the brand-new replacement part failed immediately. Vehicle returned with identical clicking and a new "whoosh" plastic scraping noise. Dealership replaced misadjusted steering column trim pieces to stop the scraping but confirmed the steering wheel click remains active.   safety risk: the dealership service department explicitly stated that the current production batch of factory replacement clock springs contains an inherent manufacturer defect, meaning new replacements fail out of the box. The clock spring maintains the continuous electrical connection to the driver’s steering wheel airbag, horn, and driver-assist controls. A mechanically binding ribbon cable reel presents an imminent risk of snapping or shorting out. If the cable fails on the road, it will instantly deactivate the driver's front airbag, rendering a critical safety restraint system useless in a crash.   requested action: compel Honda to investigate 2026 Pilot manufacturing lines, fast-track an updated/redesigned cable information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u. S. C. 552(.

The contact owns a 2025 Honda Pilot. While the contact’s wife was driving approximately 70 mph, the steering wheel became extremely difficult to turn in either direction. The driver was able to forcefully steer the vehicle over to the shoulder. After turning off and restarting the vehicle, the steering failure was self-corrected, and the vehicle operated normally. The driver was able to continue driving without any additional failures. The cause of the failure was not yet determined. The local dealer and manufacturer were notified of the failure, and a service appointment was scheduled. The failure mileage was 8,000. The VIN was not available.

The contact owns a 2018 Honda Pilot. The contact stated that while driving 75 mph on the interstate, the vehicle started shuddering. The vehicle was pulled over safely to the side of the road. The awd, hill descent assist, power steering, and check engine warning lights were illuminated. The contact checked the manual and continued to drive. While driving days later, there was an abnormal fuel odor coming from the vehicle. The contact continued driving approximately 20 mph. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic to be diagnosed. The failure was associated with the fuel pressure pump. The lower fuel pressure pump was previously replaced. The vehicle was towed to the local dealer, and the contact was informed that the high-pressure fuel pump needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 167,320.

See all problems of the 2018 Honda Pilot 🔎.

The contact owns a 2025 Honda Pilot. While driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle suddenly decelerated, and the steering wheel started jerking. The messages eps failure, lane keep assist, and adaptive cruise control failure were displayed. The contact safely pulled over to the side of the road. The vehicle was towed to a dealer, but was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 3,200.

The power steering system software problem undriveable. The awd failed said undriveable. Only 30k miles on it and it just locked and couldnt steering right to left in the middle of traffic. Could have caused a bad accident lycjuly my kids weren't in the car. The computer software took over completely made my car uncontrollable. Have a video of all warnings that came on.

My steering is making loud clicking noises when turning the vehicle left or right at low speeds. It sounds like loud pops. It is especially prevalent once car has warmed up and driven. It is very prominent when reversing and turning the wheel or moving forward and turning the wheel and also when parked and turned the wheel left or right. I brought this to my dealership’s attention and they confirmed the issue and said it is a faulty clock spring so they replaced it. After they replaced it, the noise is still there. The clock spring was not the cause of the noise. I’m afraid this will become a major safety issue with preventing the ability of the steering wheel to operate safely.

The vehicle previously experienced a steering wheel locking issue and was taken to the dealer for repair. The dealer stated the issue was repaired on December 11, 2024. On February 24, 2026, while driving on a public street, the vehicle hesitated or jerked slightly during acceleration and then appeared to operate normally. After a few minutes, multiple warning messages suddenly appeared on the dashboard, and the steering wheel became extremely difficult to turn and effectively locked while I was driving. I immediately activated my hazard lights. I was unable to safely pull over because the steering wheel would not respond properly, which placed me and other drivers at risk. I had to continue driving slowly until I found a side road where I could safely stop. I turned the vehicle off. When restarting, the warning messages reappeared. After several minutes, the warning lights cleared, and the steering wheel was no longer locked but felt loose and unstable ("wobbly"). I cautiously resumed driving. After several minutes, the steering began to feel normal again. The following warnings were displayed: hill start assist problem, trailer stability assist problem, hill descent control problem, adaptive cruise control problem, lane keeping assist problem, collision mitigation braking system problem, road departure mitigation problem, low speed braking control problem, auto high-beam problem, electric power steering system problem – steering assist not available, and "stop. Steering assist reduced. Stop driving when safe. " the failed component appears to be the electric power steering system and related driver-assistance systems. The vehicle is available for inspection. The problem was previously addressed by a dealer but has reoccurred. No prior warning lights were present before this incident. The failure occurred suddenly while driving.

On 1/18 I was dropping my daughter off at chicopee high school when I took left to front street I heard a snap and the car took me to the right direction causing my rim to be damaged. The tired rob broke. I called roadside they tow the car to curry Honda in chicopee mass. Today when I called cury Honda one of the managers insisted that I hit a poth hole without me explaining and saying this never happened when online there’s been customers complaining with the same situation 2023 -2025 with Honda Pilots experience the same issue. It’s a safety matter where it could been worse me in the car with 4 of my children,.