NHTSA Complaint #11529908 — 2019 HONDA CIVIC

I have noticed steering wheel stiffness/notchiness when traveling at varying road speeds. The issue is present when turning the wheel left and it takes more force than usual to return the wheel back to the normal position with audible clicks/groans heard when turning/returning the wheel to neutral. During highway driving, it takes more effort than usual to maintain the vehicle within the lane, like the car is fighting against you. I brought the car into the dealership while still in warranty and the vehicle was misdiagnosed as a sway bar coupler link issue. Having completed their repair recommendations, the issue still persisted and I brought the car back for further evaluation. The car is now out of warranty, and the dealership is stating it is an electric issue with the EPS. The way the part is engineered, the entire EPS rack must be replaced which would cost me upwards of $4200. I will be in contact with corporate Honda in regards to this, as the issue was brought to their attention while the car was under warranty, misdiagnosed, and now I am expected to pay out of pocket for the repair out of warranty. This issue has only gotten worse as time progressed and I am becoming increasingly concerned about my safety and anyone who drives my vehicle due to a manufacturer defect. Research online through the NHTSA website as well as other Honda Civic Forums show hundreds, if not thousands of other Civic owners experiencing the same issue I am and being expected to pay out of pocket for this manufacturer defect. I urge the NHTSA to take action and demand Honda to recall this product as it clearly stems from an engineering fault, not the consumer, and poses a massive safety risk to anyone driving a 2016-2021 Honda Civic.