2017 Honda Civic Type R Safety Report

2017 Honda Civic Type R: Strong crash ratings, but persistent 'sticky steering' and electrical issues raise safety concerns with no recalls.

524Complaints
0Recalls
65/100Reliability Score
21Crash Reports
6Fire Reports
10Injuries
Most reported components: Unknown Or Other (117)Steering (116)Electrical System (39)Structure (20)Engine (20)Fuel/Propulsion System (14)Service Brakes (12)Power Train (12)Air Bags (11)Visibility/Wiper (11)

AI Safety Analysis for the 2017 Honda Civic Type R

The 2017 Honda Civic Type R, despite its performance orientation, presents a mixed safety picture based on available NHTSA data. While it boasts excellent crash test ratings for Side (5 stars) and Rollover (5 stars), specific frontal crash test data is not available, and an overall rating is also missing. The vehicle has accumulated 524 total complaints, with a concerning 21 reported crashes, 6 fires, and 10 injuries, but no fatalities. A significant pattern emerges from the complaint data, with 'STEERING' being the second most reported component (116 complaints), closely following 'UNKNOWN OR OTHER' (117 complaints). Many steering complaints describe a 'sticky' or 'notchy' feeling, particularly at highway speeds, requiring excessive force and leading to overcorrection, which is a serious safety concern. This issue is frequently linked to the steering gearbox. Beyond steering, other notable complaint areas include 'ELECTRICAL SYSTEM' (39 complaints), often related to the Body Control Module (BCM) causing alarms, lights glitching, and battery drain, and 'ENGINE' (20 complaints). Air conditioning system failures are also prevalent, with numerous reports of A/C compressors, condensers, and evaporators failing, sometimes despite extended warranties. The absence of any recalls for the 2017 Honda Civic Type R is notable, especially given the high volume of steering complaints that mirror issues addressed in recalls for newer Civic models (2022-2025). This suggests a potential gap in addressing a known safety defect for this model year. In summary, while the vehicle performs well in side and rollover crash tests, the high number of steering complaints, describing a potentially dangerous 'sticky' or 'notchy' sensation, raises significant safety concerns. The lack of recall action for these steering issues, despite their prevalence and similarity to problems in newer models, is a critical point. Buyers should be aware of these persistent mechanical and electrical issues, particularly the steering defect, which could compromise vehicle control.

Reliability Score

The 2017 Honda Civic Type R receives a reliability score of 65 out of 100 based on analysis of NHTSA complaint data, recall history, crash reports, and safety ratings. This indicates average reliability — some notable concerns exist that prospective buyers should be aware of.

Known Issues for the 2017 Honda Civic Type R

The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2017 Honda Civic Type R:

IssueSeverityFrequencyTypical Mileage
Sticky/Notchy Steering
Steering wheel feels 'sticky' or 'notchy', especially at highway speeds, requiring excessive force to turn and leading to overcorrection. Often attributed to the steering gearbox.		 High Common unknown miles
Ac System Failure
Failures of the AC compressor, condenser, or evaporator leading to loss of cold air. Often reported even after warranty replacements.		 Medium Common unknown miles
Body Control Module (Bcm) Malfunctions
Faulty BCM causing alarm to go off, interior lights to glitch, battery drain, and key fob recognition issues.		 Medium Occasional unknown miles
Paint Delamination/Rust
Paint coming off leading to rust issues, particularly on older vehicles.		 Low Occasional unknown miles

Common Problems Reported by Owners

Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2017 Honda Civic Type R:

Steering 22% of complaints

Frequent complaints about 'sticky' or 'notchy' steering, especially at higher speeds, requiring excessive force and causing overcorrection.

Electrical System 7% of complaints

Issues with the Body Control Module (BCM) leading to alarm malfunctions, light glitches, and battery drain.

Engine 4% of complaints

Various engine-related complaints, though less specific patterns are identified from the provided data.

Structure 4% of complaints

Complaints related to the vehicle's structure, including issues like window molding failures.

Fuel/Propulsion System 3% of complaints

Reports concerning the fuel or propulsion system.

Frequently Asked Questions About the 2017 Honda Civic Type R

Is the 2017 Honda Civic Type R safe?

Based on NHTSA data, the 2017 Honda Civic Type R has excellent 5-star ratings for Side and Rollover crash tests. However, it has 524 total complaints, including 21 crashes and 10 injuries. A significant concern is the 116 complaints related to 'STEERING', describing a 'sticky' or 'notchy' sensation that could compromise control, and the absence of recalls for this issue.

What are common problems with the 2017 Honda Civic Type R?

The most reported issues are related to 'STEERING' (116 complaints), with many owners experiencing a 'sticky' or 'notchy' steering wheel, particularly at highway speeds. Other common problems include 'ELECTRICAL SYSTEM' issues (39 complaints), often linked to the Body Control Module, and frequent failures of the A/C system components like compressors and condensers.

Are there any recalls for the 2017 Honda Civic Type R?

According to the provided NHTSA data, there are no recalls issued for the 2017 Honda Civic Type R. This is notable given the high volume of complaints, especially concerning the steering system, which has seen recalls for similar issues in newer Civic models.

How does the 2017 Honda Civic Type R perform in crash tests?

The 2017 Honda Civic Type R received a 5-star rating for Side crash tests and a 5-star rating for Rollover tests from NHTSA. However, specific ratings for Frontal crash tests and an Overall safety rating are not available.

Is the 'sticky steering' issue a safety concern?

Yes, the 'sticky steering' issue reported by 116 owners is a significant safety concern. Drivers describe the steering wheel resisting movement and then suddenly 'unsticking,' leading to overcorrection and making it difficult to maintain lane position, especially at higher speeds. This directly impacts vehicle control and could increase the risk of an accident.

Buyer Advice

Our recommendation: Given the excellent crash test performance in some areas but significant and unaddressed 'sticky steering' complaints, potential buyers should prioritize a thorough pre-purchase inspection focusing on the steering system and be aware of potential AC and electrical issues.

NHTSA Data Summary for 2017 Honda Civic Type R

This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2017 Honda Civic Type R. The data includes 524 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 0 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 21 reported crashes, 6 fire incidents, 10 reported injuries, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.

All data presented in this report is sourced from public NHTSA databases. Our AI analysis identifies patterns across complaint narratives, correlates them with recall history, and produces the safety assessment above. This analysis is updated as new complaints and recalls are filed with the NHTSA.

Consumers are encouraged to report vehicle safety problems to the NHTSA at nhtsa.gov. If your vehicle is subject to a recall, contact your dealer to schedule the free repair.