2012 Honda Civic: engine failure

Filed Jan 2, 2026 · Engine, Steering · CA

Component or system failure: The vehicle experienced failures involving the engine/ignition system, emissions system, Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA), and power steering. On July 14, 2025, warning messages appeared for “Check Emissions System,” “Check VSA System,” and “Check Power Steering System.” Diagnostics identified engine misfire code P0304 (Cylinder #4). On August 11, 2025, an authorized Honda dealership confirmed a seized spark plug and cylinder head damage, indicating an internal engine defect. The vehicle is currently with the selling dealership and available for inspection. Safety risk: Simultaneous failure warnings for emissions, VSA, and power steering created an unsafe driving condition. Impaired stability control and power steering increase the risk of loss of vehicle control during turning or emergency maneuvers. Confirmation of problem: Yes. Independent diagnostics confirmed the misfire. The selling dealer attempted repairs between July 22–25, 2025, but the same warnings returned. On August 8, 2025, the dealer admitted it lacked tools and software to diagnose or repair CNG vehicles. Honda later confirmed internal engine damage. Inspections: The vehicle was inspected by the selling dealer and an authorized Honda dealership. A third-party warranty administrator authorized a tear-down inspection. The vehicle has not yet been inspected by Honda Motor Co. or the federal safety agency. Prior warnings and recall concern: Warnings first appeared on July 14, 2025, about two weeks after purchase, and recurred despite repairs. The 2012 Honda Civic CNG has multiple recalls involving engine, fuel, and emissions systems, and these failures are consistent with known defect patterns, warranting further investigation.

Filed Oct 10, 2024 · Steering · TX

The contact owns a 2012 Honda Civic. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the steering wheel seized. There was no warning light illuminated. The contact stated that the steering wheel became difficult to turn. The dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was not available.

Filed Oct 27, 2021 · Steering · 72,500 miles · FL

The contact owns a 2012 Honda Civic. The contact stated that while driving approximately 5 MPH, the emergency steering warning light illuminated, and the steering wheel seized. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic, then to the dealer. Initially, the dealer could not replicate the failure but later diagnosed the vehicle with steering column failure. The vehicle was not repaired and remained at the dealer. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 72,500.

Filed Feb 8, 2018 · Electrical, Steering · 30,000 miles · NY

Tl* the contact owns a 2012 honda civic. While the contact's daughter was driving 50 MPH, the steering wheel seized and the power steering warning indicator illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed with a power steering and electrical failure. The contact was informed that the power steering column needed replacement. The contact stated that the vehicle was not repaired due to cost and believed there should be a recall. The honda manufacturer and local dealer (millennium honda, 286 n franklin st, hempstead, ny 11550, (516) 481-2800) were contacted and informed the contact of no open recalls. The approximate failure mileage was 30,000. *tt

Filed Jul 15, 2016 · Steering · 35,000 miles · OK

Tl* the contact owns a 2012 honda civic. While driving 35 MPH, the steering wheel seized. In order for the steering to operate, the contact had to turn the ignition switch on and off four times. The failure recurred numerous times. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed and the power steering rack was replaced. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 35,000. Updated 12/13/16*lj the consumer stated the steering would lock up, placing him at risk. The dealer stated the power steering rack needed to be replaced. Updated 12/19/16.