2022-2024 Honda Civic EPS Gearbox Inspection TSB 23-089

Honda has released Service Bulletin 23-089, titled "Product Update: 2022–24 Civic EPS Gearbox Inspection (Service Parts)", to address a manufacturing defect in certain Electric Power Steering (EPS) gearbox assemblies. This issue specifically impacts 2022-2024 Honda Civic models and could lead to an incorrect rack stroke, resulting in noticeable changes in driving dynamics.

Why This Matters

The electric power steering system is crucial for vehicle control and safety. A manufacturing error that affects the rack stroke of the EPS gearbox can alter how the vehicle handles, potentially leading to unexpected changes in steering feel or response. This could compromise the predictability and stability of the vehicle's driving dynamics.

What's Being Inspected

The service bulletin focuses on identifying specific EPS gearbox assemblies that were not manufactured to proper specifications. Technicians will inspect the part number label on the EPS gearbox. If the label shows an ID of "WA" with part number "53640-T21-3050-M1" or an ID of "WB" with part number "53640-T21-3060-M1", the EPS gearbox assembly will need to be replaced. If the EPS gearbox has any other ID or part number, no replacement is necessary.

Important Warnings

Honda emphasizes several critical points for both technicians and owners:

• "Owners of affected vehicles will be sent a notification of this campaign." This means you should receive a letter if your vehicle is included.
• "Some vehicles affected by this campaign may be in your new or used vehicle inventory. Repair these vehicles before they are sold." This ensures that vehicles on dealer lots are corrected before reaching customers.
• During the repair, technicians are instructed: "Do not turn the steering wheel while disconnecting the steering joint." This prevents potential damage or misalignment.
• When installing the EPS motor/control unit mounting bolts: "DO NOT use power tools to install or tighten the bolts." This prevents damage to the motor or gearbox.

Repair Procedure Summary

The repair process involves a detailed inspection and, if necessary, the replacement of the EPS gearbox assembly. The procedure begins with disconnecting the battery and steering joint, followed by removing various components to access the gearbox, including front wheels, engine undercover, exhaust mount, stabilizer links, and lower assembly bolts. Special tools are required for certain steps, such as disconnecting ball joints.

Once the subframe is lowered and the old gearbox is removed, the EPS motor/control unit is separated from the old gearbox and transferred to the new one. This transfer includes installing a new O-ring and ensuring the unit is properly seated and torqued by hand before final tightening. After installing the new Honda Civic EPS gearbox and reassembling all components, a wheel alignment and VSA Sensor Neutral Position Memorization procedure using the Honda Diagnostic System (HDS) tool are performed.

Required Tools and Parts

Replacing the EPS gearbox requires specific parts and specialized tools. Key parts include:

• Gearbox: 53640-T21-306
• Flange Bolt (12X75): 90161-SX8-T00
• Washer Bolt (14X85): 90179-T20-A01
• Flange Bolt (12X30): 90174-T20-A01
• Washer Bolt (14X45): 90163-TGH-A01
• Washer Bolt (14X85): 90130-T20-A00
• Flange Bolt (14X35): 90181-TBA-A00
• Flange Bolt (14X80): 90108-T20-A00
• Split Pin (3.0X22): 94201-30220
• Washer Bolt (10X25): 90159-TBA-A00
• Self-Lock Nut (12mm): 90215-SB0-003
• Flange Nut (10mm): 90002-S10-000

Special tools needed for this repair include:

• Subframe Adapter: VSB02C000016
• Ball Joint Thread Protector (12mm): 07AAF-SDAA100
• Ball Joint Remover (28mm): 07MAC-SL00202
• Subframe Alignment Pin: 070AG-SJAA10S

Warranty Information

For warranty claims related to this issue, specific codes must be used. The Defect Code is 03214, and the Symptom Code is DG400. Labor operations include 5131C0 for replacing the steering gearbox, 5135D9 for inspecting the parts label, and 5131M3 for replacing the EPS gearbox. The associated Template IDs are A23089A and A23089B. Technicians must attach a photo of the EPS gearbox label and input the EPS serial number, such as WA23-900622, into the warranty claim form.

Owner Action

If you own a 2022-2024 Honda Civic, you will receive a notification from Honda regarding this campaign. It is important to verify your vehicle's eligibility by checking its VIN status with an authorized Honda dealer. If your vehicle is affected, schedule an appointment with your dealer to have the EPS gearbox inspected and replaced if necessary. This service will be performed free of charge.

NHTSA ID: 10247622