Urgent Recall for Honda and Acura Vehicles Due to Airbag Safety Concerns

Over 750,000 Honda and Acura vehicles recalled due to a defect that may cause airbags to deploy improperly, risking injury.

American Honda Motor Co. has announced a significant recall affecting more than 750,000 vehicles from its Honda and Acura lines, due to a potentially dangerous airbag deployment issue. The recall spans several models, including the 2020-2022 Honda Accord, Civic sedan, HR-V, Odyssey, Pilot; 2020 Civic coupe, Fit; 2021-2022 Civic hatchback; 2021 Civic Type R, Insight; and 2020-2021 Accord Hybrid, CR-V, CR-V Hybrid, Passport, Ridgeline. Acura models affected are the 2020 and 2022 MDX; 2020-2022 RDX; and 2020-2021 TLX.

The core of the recall issue lies in the front passenger seat weight sensor, which may crack and short circuit. This defect could result in the airbag deploying in a collision even if a small person or child is seated in the front passenger seat, posing a significant injury risk. The sensor is designed to suppress the airbag under such circumstances to prevent injuries.

As of January 25, 2024, Honda reported 3,834 warranty claims related to this issue but no injuries or deaths. The company plans to address the problem by replacing the defective seat weight sensors at no charge to vehicle owners. Those who have previously paid for repairs related to this issue are eligible for reimbursement. Honda is expected to begin sending out owner notification letters by March 18, 2024.

The recall affects a wide range of vehicles, and owners are urged to check if their vehicle is impacted. This can be done by visiting the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) website and entering the vehicle's 17-digit Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). Honda has assigned NHTSA campaign number 24V064000 to this recall, with internal recall numbers XHP and VHQ for reference.

Vehicle owners can contact Honda at 888-234-2138 for more information. Given the frequency of recalls and the importance of safety, vehicle owners are encouraged to regularly check the NHTSA website for any updates on recalls affecting their vehicles.

Source: consumerreports