Honda has announced a major recall of nearly 250,000 vehicles in the United States due to a manufacturing defect that could pose safety risks. The recall affects several models manufactured between 2015 and 2019, including the Acura TLX cars, Acura MDX SUVs, Ridgeline pickup trucks, Odyssey minivans, and Pilot SUVs.
The Japanese automaker has identified an error in the manufacturing of the engine crankshaft that could cause premature wear and seizure of the connecting rod bearing. If the connecting rod bearing seizes, it can cause damage to the engine and improper performance, such as stalling or failing while driving. This defect also increases the risk of fire, accidents, and potential injuries to drivers and passengers.
To address the issue, Honda will send notifications by mail to owners of the affected vehicles starting from January 2nd. Honda dealerships will inspect the vehicles and, if necessary, repair or replace the engine. The company has also announced plans to reimburse owners who have previously paid for repairs related to this manufacturing defect.
While Honda has received 1,450 warranty claims related to this problem as of November 3rd, there have been no reports of injuries or fatalities so far. The automaker was alerted about the manufacturing defect in February 2020 and has since taken steps to correct the issue in its production processes.
This recall serves as a reminder of the importance of proactive measures taken by car manufacturers to timely address potential safety issues. By initiating this recall, Honda seeks to ensure the well-being and satisfaction of its customers. If you are an owner of one of the affected Honda vehicles, it is crucial that you follow the provided instructions and have your vehicle inspected to mitigate any potential risks.