I have a 2005 HCH with 20,000 miles on it. Lately, the power steering has a dead spot at the center point. You have to over compensate to change lanes. I took to the dealer and they said they couldn't find anything wrong. It seems more pronounced at interstate speeds. Any thoughts.

Sorry I can't offer any suggestions, other than I've never heard of any Civic owners discussing that problem here before. I haven't experienced it. I may press the issue with the dealership. Because what has been discussed a lot, is how dealerships seem to be quick to dismiss issues. Just because they can't "find it" does not mean something is not as it should be.

*** Retired after 65,000 outstanding miles ***

Some if not all honda power steering systems are speed regulated. That is, when you are in a parking lot or driving at slow speeds the system provides more assist. When driving at highway speeds, the steering acts more like a manual system with little or no assist.

Could be what you are experiencing?? Or, is it much more noticeable at high speeds?

The power steering is more of an issue at higher speeds. It feels like it is on center and you have to oversteer to change lanes and then pull back a little as the car steers to far to the right or left and you have to compensate for it. I notice it the most changing lanes next to a jersey barrier.

This is probably too simplistic, but...

have you checked your tire pressure, all around?
Low pressure can do very strange things to the handling characteristics of autos.
Wildly mismatched pressures (usually one tire very low) can do the same.

Steve

STOP terrorism - Drive a HYBRID

Vehicles:
350 miles a week ------------ 2006 HCH II, Magnetic Pearl, w/NAVI (born on May 25, 2006)
350 miles a month ---------- 2003 Mazda Tribute ES-V6
350 miles a year (for now) - 1986 Mercedes 560SL

I have same issue on my '05 with 30k. It is definitely a tight rack issue. There is another more recent thread on this subject, but no satisfactory resolution yet AFAIK.

Could be wheel alignment time as well?

Alignment: Check
Struts: Check
Ball Joints: Check
Steering Column: Check
Power Steering Motor: Check
Rack: Tight

Process of elimination says it's got to be the rack.....unless I missed something.