Honda Initiates Recall of Over 400,000 Civics Due to Safety Defect

Honda has officially announced a recall affecting more than 400,000 Civic vehicles due to a serious safety defect. On October 31, 2025, the company confirmed that the recall primarily involves models manufactured between 2016 and 2021. The defect, identified by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), stems from a factory error where the steel seat anchors for the aluminum wheels were not adequately pressed. This issue could lead to the loosening of wheel nuts, posing a significant risk of wheel detachment while driving.

The recall process began on the same day as the announcement, with Honda sending out notification letters to vehicle owners. These communications are expected to reach all affected individuals by December 8, 2025. In the meantime, owners can verify if their vehicle is included in the recall by entering their vehicle identification number on the NHTSA website. Honda has also made a customer service hotline available at 1-888-234-2138 for those with questions or concerns regarding the recall.

According to reports from Top Class Actions, Honda has not received any injury reports related to this defect and is not currently facing any class-action lawsuits. This recall reflects a common challenge within the automotive industry, where manufacturers occasionally need to address factory defects impacting vehicle safety.

Details of the Defect and Investigation Findings

The defect in question was first identified during a routine inspection in Japan in 2024. Honda’s investigation revealed that some wheels with unfinished steel seat inserts had been mistakenly shipped as completed products due to an incident at a supplier’s factory in Italy. As a precaution, Honda will conduct thorough inspections of all parts and wheels on affected vehicles at authorized dealerships, free of charge.

Honda emphasizes that the potential for wheel detachment can lead to loss of vehicle control, heightening the risk of accidents. In their public statement, the company acknowledged the seriousness of this issue, stating, “Wheel detachment can cause a loss of control, increasing the risk of an accident or injury.”

What Affected Owners Should Know

The recall notification process is designed to ensure that all affected Civic owners are informed. Although Honda aims to send out notifications by December 8, those who wish to proactively check their vehicle can do so through the NHTSA website. This online platform provides a straightforward method for owners to ascertain whether their vehicle is part of the recall.

In addition to addressing the current recall, Honda is also facing legal challenges related to other issues. The automaker is involved in a lawsuit concerning warranty repairs for defective 1.5-liter and 2.0-liter turbocharged engines in various models, including the Honda Accord, Civic, CR-V, and Acura RDX from model years 2016 to 2022.

As Honda navigates these challenges, the company remains committed to ensuring the safety and satisfaction of its customers. The ongoing communication and support for affected vehicle owners is a critical aspect of their response to this significant recall.