- Honda could potentially have to recall 1.4 million vehicles in the U.S. for an engine issue
- The automaker previously fixed vehicles with the problem, but NHTSA is now reporting failures in non-recalled cars
- Transport Canada’s recall covered 29,601 models in Canada, but NHTSA’s eventual findings could possibly increase that number
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Honda may be looking at a recall for some 1.4 million Honda and Acura vehicles for engine issues if a U.S. federal investigation finds they weren’t included in a previous campaign but should have been.
In 2023, the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) issued a recall for 248,999 Honda and Acura vehicles; and in Canada, Transport Canada did the same for 29,601 models. The problem was with the connecting rod bearings in certain 3.5L V6 engines, which were improperly manufactured and could wear prematurely and fail. If this happened, then according to the recall, the engine could suddenly lose power and/or increase the risk of a vehicle fire.
The recall went as planned, but NHTSA said it now has 173 complaints from people who experienced connecting rod failure, but whose vehicles weren’t included in the recall. While the investigation is only in the preliminary stages, it could potentially result in Honda having to cast a much wider net for the recall. In the original recall, dealers had to inspect the engine, and if necessary, repair or replace it.
In Canada, the vehicles involved in the original recall are certain examples of these (the U.S. recalls may have a wider model-year range):
- 2018–2020 Acura MDX
- 2015–2020 Acura TLX
- 2016–2018 Honda Pilot
- 2019 Honda Ridgeline
- 2019 Honda Odyssey
In the NHTSA investigation opened early in November, the agency noted complaints covering 173 reports of engine failure, and with one resulting in a crash. It added that all 173 engines “display failures that have characteristics consistent with those addressed” in the recall, but these vehicles weren’t included in it.
So far, the investigation appears limited to NHTSA, but if vehicles that weren’t originally recalled are placed under one, Transport Canada will likely follow up with one also. If you’re not sure if your vehicle was subject to the initial recall, you can check on Honda Canada’s recall page or Acura Canada’s recall page. You’ll need your vehicle information number (VIN), the 17-digit combination of letters and numbers that’s on your ownership, or visible through the windshield on the driver’s side of the dash. Recalls must be mailed to owners by law, so if you move or buy a used vehicle, be sure to update your information with the automaker, no matter what brand you have.
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