2022 Honda Civic Si Problems: Engine, Steering & More

Engine and steering issues are among the top complaints received by the NHTSA from vehicle owners

Updated on August 25th, 2023 Author: Brian Jones | Reviewer: Sergei Lemberg

The 2022 Honda Civic Si is a sport compact car designed to transform the everyday drive into something more exciting. It comes as a four-door sedan with a six-speed manual, so there aren’t a lot of options, but it’s something a little different from the standard Civic lineup. This model first arrived during the third-generation Civic models.

While the standard Civic continues to perform well in its segment, the Si is another story. While the company doesn’t break down numbers on the Si specifically, it’s clear to see that this model fits a niche market.

Civic Si Issue Highlights

The 2022 Honda Civic Si is meant to produce exhilarating feelings from drivers. At first glance, it does that because the sedan is stylish and sporty. However, it doesn’t take long for problems to manifest, from minor to major. The most concerning issues surround the steering system, with the NHTSA starting investigations. There are also engine and electrical system concerns worth mentioning.

2022 Honda Civic Si Complaint Summary

Steering Issues

• Sticky Steering: The NHTSA opened an investigation in March 2023. With 145 complaints early on in sales, both the 2022 and 2023 model year Hondas are being locked at. Complaints express that there’s a steering effort increase for a few moments at a time while traveling at highway speeds. Any overcorrection can turn into a collision.
• Pulling to One Side: Complaints have also poured in, expressing that the Honda Civic model doesn’t head straight down the road. Most often, the car pulls to the left, with the dealerships leaving customers without a remedy.
• Jerky Steering: Additionally, the steering system feels jerky at times, with drivers describing the handling as if “the front end is lifted off the ground.” The problems seem to get worse when traveling at highway speeds up to 70 mph.

Engine Problems

• Rod Bearing Failure: Rod bearings only fail prematurely because of a manufacturer defect or an inability to keep them lubricated with the right oil. Even though these engines have been notoriously failing early because of rod bearings, owners are still being rejected for warranty work because of “poor maintenance.”
• Ticking Sounds: Many users have heard ticking noises coming from the engine. Some people think it has something to do with the thin 0W-20 motor oil that’s recommended for the engine. In other parts of the world, the manufacturer suggests using 5W-30 motor oil in the very same engine. Maybe that’s why this engine continues to fail.
• Lack of Acceleration: Despite being a sporty car, owners continue to be disappointed with the power output. The engine outputs 200 horsepower, so there should be no lack of acceleration, especially considering how small the car is. Yet, people aren’t having the fun they signed up for.
• Decreased Fuel Economy: The EPA rates the 2022 Honda Civic Si with 27/37 mpg, thanks in part to the efficient powertrain. Yet, customers are having trouble replicating these numbers. It’s become a shocker to some when they have to get fuel so often.

Electrical System Issues

• Premature Failure: The first thing drivers notice is how many things seem to break within the first few months of ownership. Within six months, one driver lost the function of the air conditioning system, the power driver’s seat, cruise control, key fob operation and the windshield washer nozzle.
• Failed Climate Control System: Another driver lost the defroster and air conditioning system within ten hours of purchase. It went right back to the dealer, only to be there for several weeks while waiting for replacement parts.
• Malfunctioning Multimedia Features: Other owners have expressed disgust over a lack of reliability with the tech features. There have been reports of the dash buttons not illuminating and speakers that cut out. Other people have been dealing with static when using their phones.

2022 Honda Civic Si Recalls

It’s amazing that the 2022 Honda Civic Si doesn’t have any recalls at this time. With the steering issue currently under investigation and the numerous complaints, it’s expected that this problem will eventually turn into a recall. It probably won’t be the only one that we see in the future. The reality is that customers shouldn’t spend this kind of money on a new car and worry about the engine or electronics failing. The pressure on Honda will be hard, so we are hoping that all of the complaints will be made right soon.

A Defective Honda Civic Si Doesn’t Mean You’re Stuck—You Have Options

Do you think you may have a lemon? If you do, Lemberg Law will assess your problems free of charge. The law makes Honda pay legal fees and you may be able to get your lemon out of your life.

Every year, auto manufacturers buy back, replace or pay cash settlements to thousands of ‘lemon’ owners like you. All our Helpline or fill in our contact form and we’ll get back to you.

About the Author:

Brian Jones spent more than 30 years working as an ASE Certified Master Tech and Parts Specialist at multiple dealerships. Brian has become an authority in the industry, traveling across the country to consult for car dealerships and contributing his expertise as a writer for several major automotive publications. In his spare time, Brian enjoys working on pickup trucks, muscle cars, Jeeps and anything related to motorsports.

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