To adjust the steering wheel, pull the tilt/telescope lever under the steering column toward you to unlock, move the wheel to your preferred height and reach, and then push the lever back to lock. Do this with the car parked and the engine off or in park to ensure safety.
What to know before you adjust
The 2016 Honda Civic uses a tilt and telescoping steering wheel. A locking lever on the lower left side of the steering column unlocks the mechanism, allowing you to raise or lower the wheel (tilt) and pull it in or out (reach). After repositioning, always return the lever to the locked position. For best results, adjust with the vehicle parked, seats set for comfort, and your hands near the 9 and 3 o’clock positions to maintain control and visibility.
Steps to adjust the steering wheel
Follow these steps to set a safe, comfortable steering position.
- Park in a safe spot and adjust your seat so you can reach the pedals and see the instrument cluster clearly.
- Locate the tilt/telescoping locking lever on the lower left side of the steering column.
- Pull the lever outward toward you to unlock the steering column.
- Move the steering wheel up or down (tilt) and toward or away from you (reach) until your arms are slightly bent and your hands rest near the 9 and 3 o’clock positions.
- Push the lever back toward the column to lock the wheel in place. Apply light pressure on the wheel to confirm it is securely locked.
- Gently tug the wheel to ensure there is no movement. If it shifts, repeat the locking step or have it inspected.
By following these steps, you should achieve a comfortable and safe steering position that offers a clear view of the gauges and controls. If the lever doesn’t unlock or the wheel won’t lock, stop and seek service to avoid compromising control or safety.
Safety checklist after adjustment
After repositioning the wheel, use this quick checklist to ensure you’re ready to drive safely.
- Keep your hands at about 9 and 3 o’clock and ensure a relaxed grip.
- Verify you have an unobstructed view of the instrument cluster and essential controls.
- Re-check the driver’s seat position and outside mirrors for optimal visibility.
- Confirm the steering wheel is securely locked before moving the vehicle.
- Avoid adjusting the wheel while the car is in motion; perform adjustments only when parked.
Following these checks helps ensure you maintain proper control and situational awareness after making an adjustment.
Common issues and troubleshooting
If you encounter problems with the steering wheel adjustment, try these quick checks: ensure you are fully pulling the lever to unlock and fully returning it to the lock position; confirm you are performing the steps with the vehicle parked; if the wheel still won’t move or won’t lock, do not force the mechanism and contact a Honda service center. A malfunction could affect steering control or airbag deployment.
Summary
The 2016 Honda Civic’s steering wheel can be adjusted for comfort via a tilt and telescope lever located under the steering column. Unlock with the lever, adjust tilt and reach to suit your seating and driving posture, then lock the lever again. Always adjust while parked, verify secure locking, and perform a quick safety check before driving. If you encounter persistent issues, seek professional service to ensure safe operation.