2018 Honda Civic Type R Safety Report

The 2018 Honda Civic Type R presents a mixed safety picture, with strong crash test performance in certain areas but a significant number of owner complaints, particularly concerning the steering system. While NHTSA did not provide an overall frontal crash rating, it received a 5-star rating for side impact and rollover resistance, indicating robust occupant protection in those scenarios. However, the vehicle has accumulated 606 total complaints, including 26 crashes, 4 fires, 21 injuries, and 1 death, which is a notable volume for a single model year. The most prevalent issue, by a substantial margin, is related to the STEERING system, accounting for 193 complaints. Owners frequently report 'sticky,' 'notchy,' or 'stiff' steering, often at highway speeds, making it difficult to maintain a straight line and requiring excessive force or overcorrection, which poses a clear safety risk. Beyond the steering concerns, the vehicle is subject to one recall (NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V858000) for a FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP issue affecting a wide range of Honda and Acura models. This recall addresses a fuel pump failure that can lead to an engine stall while driving, increasing the risk of a crash. Several complaints directly reference this recall, with owners experiencing vehicle inoperability or being informed of parts unavailability for the repair. Other significant complaint categories include FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE (82 complaints), UNKNOWN OR OTHER (73), and FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM (50), many of which likely relate to the fuel pump recall. The high number of steering complaints, often describing a loss of precise control and requiring expensive rack and pinion replacements (some quoted at $6500-$7500 for vehicles under 30,000 miles), suggests a widespread manufacturing defect that has not yet resulted in a recall. This issue, combined with the fuel pump recall, indicates two critical areas of concern for potential buyers. While the vehicle performs well in specific crash tests, the recurring mechanical failures, particularly with steering, significantly detract from its overall safety profile and warrant careful consideration.

Our recommendation: Prospective buyers should be aware of the significant steering system complaints and the fuel pump recall. Ensure the fuel pump recall has been completed and thoroughly test drive the vehicle at various speeds to check for any steering anomalies before purchase.