Why is my 2016 Honda Civic power steering not working after rodent damage?

Quick Summary

• Issue: Rodent-damaged steering wiring
• Vehicle: 2016 Honda Civic LX 4-cylinder
• Problem: Chewed steering rack harness
• Solution: Steering rack wiring harness replacement
• Location: Omaha service

Summary

Power steering failure caused by rodent-chewed wiring in a 2016 Honda Civic requires immediate professional repair to prevent complete electrical system damage and restore safe vehicle operation.

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Gateway Auto’s diagnostic inspection in Omaha confirmed rodents had chewed through the steering rack wiring harness, severing critical electrical connections.
Our technicians replaced the damaged harness with OEM Honda components, restoring full steering assist and eliminating exposed wiring that could cause shorts or cascading electrical failures.

5 Signs of Rodent Damage to Vehicle Wiring

1. Power steering assist warning lights or complete steering assist failure
2. Visible chewed wires, nesting materials, or rodent droppings under the hood
3. Electrical malfunctions affecting multiple systems simultaneously
4. Unusual odors from decomposing nesting materials in the engine bay
5. Dashboard warning lights with no obvious mechanical cause

What We Found: 3 Critical Rodent Damage Issues

1. Chewed Steering Rack Wiring Harness

Complete insulation damage with exposed conductors on the steering rack wiring harness, requiring full replacement.

2. Compromised Electrical Connections

Severed wiring prevented proper communication between the power steering system and vehicle computer.

3. Secondary Damage Risk

Exposed wiring created potential for electrical shorts, blown fuses, and broader system failures.

Our 3-Step Wiring Repair Process

1. Comprehensive Diagnostic Inspection
   → Visual inspection confirmed customer’s rodent damage concern and identified the steering rack harness as the affected component.
   Learn more about our Electrical System Diagnostics.
2. Steering Rack Harness Replacement
   → Removed damaged wiring harness and installed new OEM Honda steering rack harness with proper sealed connections.
3. Electrical System Testing
   → Verified restored power steering assist and ensured all electrical circuits were functioning correctly.

3 Ways to Prevent Rodent Damage

• Park in enclosed garages when possible to reduce rodent access to engine compartments.
• Use deterrent products like peppermint sachets or ultrasonic repellents near parking areas.
• Schedule inspections including under-hood visual checks for rodent activity—especially after long storage periods.

Customer Reviews

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “They showed me photos of exactly where the rodents chewed through the wiring. Glad I brought it in right away before more damage happened.”

Quick FAQ

Q: How do rodents get into engine compartments?
A: Rodents enter through small openings in the undercarriage, air intakes, and wiring gaps. They’re attracted to warm engine bays and soy-based wire insulation, which unfortunately serves as an appealing food source.

Q: Can I drive with rodent-damaged wiring?
A: No — exposed conductors can cause electrical fires or steering failure, creating serious safety hazards. Even minor damage can lead to cascading electrical failures. Immediate repair is critical.

Q: Will insurance cover rodent damage?
A: Most comprehensive insurance policies cover rodent damage under “acts of nature.” Always document with photos and repair estimates when filing a claim. Coverage varies by policy, so check your terms carefully.

Don’t Ignore Rodent Damage

Rodent-chewed wiring can quickly escalate into electrical fires or total system failure.
If you’ve noticed signs of rodents or unexplained warning lights, schedule a professional inspection with Gateway Auto in Omaha today.
Our technicians provide comprehensive rodent damage car repair and electrical diagnostics to keep your vehicle safe and fully functional.