The recall concerns the electric power steering (EPS) system on some 2013 Honda Accords. If your vehicle is included in the recall, Honda will repair or replace the faulty components at no charge after the VIN is verified by the manufacturer or a dealer.
This article explains what the recall typically covers, how to determine if your exact car is affected, common symptoms to watch for, and how to arrange service with a Honda dealer or the appropriate safety authorities.
What the recall covers
The recall focuses on the electric power steering system, which assists steering through an EPS motor controlled by an electronic module. A defect can lead to a loss of steering assist, or intermittent or unexpected steering feel, potentially increasing the risk of a crash. Remedies usually involve inspection, replacement of EPS components (such as the motor, control module, or wiring harness), and/or software updates. All qualifying repairs are performed at no cost to the vehicle owner.
Why EPS matters in the 2013 Accord
In the 2013 Accord, steering assist is provided by an electric motor rather than a purely hydraulic system. A fault in the EPS can make steering heavier or inconsistent, which may be noticeable especially at low speeds or during maneuvers. The recall aims to address these failures before they lead to a loss of vehicle control.
Which models and VINs are affected
The recall coverage is VIN-specific, so not every 2013 Honda Accord is affected. The exact vehicles included are published by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Honda and can change as campaigns are updated. To know if your car is affected, you must check your VIN against official recall databases.
Before attempting to verify eligibility, note that the process hinges on VIN matching rather than just the model year. A vehicle may be listed even if it has never displayed symptoms.
- Locate your VIN: on the driver-side dashboard (visible through the windshield) or on the driver-side door jamb, and also on your vehicle registration or insurance card.
- Use official recall databases to search by VIN: the NHTSA recalls database and Honda’s own recall lookup tool.
- Cross-check multiple sources if needed to confirm inclusion in the recall campaign.
Conclusion: If your VIN is listed, you should schedule service with a Honda dealer to have the recall remedy performed at no cost to you. If your VIN is not listed, you are not currently covered by this specific recall, but you should still monitor for other open recalls.
What to do if your Accord is affected
If your vehicle is included in the recall, independent driving should be avoided only if you notice loss of steering assist or other severe symptoms. Otherwise, you can continue driving to a nearby Honda dealership for service, but arrange an appointment at your earliest convenience.
Symptoms to watch for include heavier-than-usual steering effort, a warning EPS light on the instrument cluster, or unusual steering feel such as buzzing, clunking, or intermittent loss of assist. If you experience any of these issues, contact your dealer immediately or pull over safely if the situation worsens.
To prepare for a service visit, bring your VIN, proof of ownership, and a photo ID. Explain the recall concern and request the specific recall work for EPS as noted by the manufacturer; the dealer will verify eligibility and schedule the repair if applicable.
Recommended steps if you suspect or confirm eligibility:
To check your VIN now, follow these steps:
- Find and verify your VIN as described above.
- Enter the VIN on the NHTSA recall page to see if a power steering campaign is listed.
- Enter the VIN on Honda’s owners recall lookup to corroborate the same information.
- Call or visit a Honda dealership to schedule the recall repair if the VIN is listed.
Conclusion: VIN-based verification is the authoritative method to determine recall eligibility. If listed, schedule the repair promptly; if not listed, continue to monitor official sources for any new recalls related to EPS.
Summary
The 2013 Honda Accord power steering recall centers on the electric power steering system and is VIN-specific. Affected owners should verify their VIN with official sources (NHTSA and Honda) and, if included, obtain free service from an authorized dealer to repair or replace EPS components or update software. As recall information can change, always rely on up-to-date listings and contact a dealer for the definitive remedy and scheduling.
Additional resources: NHTSA recalls and Honda recalls for owners.