Honda Motor Co. is recalling nearly 300,000 vehicles across the United States, impacting select models including the 2022-2025 Acura MDX Type-S, 2023-2025 Honda Pilot, and 2021-2025 Acura TLX Type-S. The recall has been prompted by serious concerns involving the fuel injection electronic control unit (FI-ECU) settings, potentially causing engines to stall or lose power unexpectedly.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), problems stemming from sudden changes in throttle opening can trigger the Check Engine Light, resulting in engines hesitating, losing power, or stalling altogether. This defect is particularly alarming as it poses significant risks associated with vehicle control and safety, leading to heightened chances of crashes or injuries.
Honda is taking the issue seriously, planning to notify affected vehicle owners by mid-March 2025, but dealer notifications have already begun. Motorists are being advised to schedule appointments at dedicated Honda dealerships where the software issue can be rectified free of charge. These preventive measures come after Honda first identified the fuel-injection problem through telemetry data back in December 2023. By early January 2025, the company realized the potential for engine stalling.
While Honda has not reported any injuries or accidents resulting from this situation, there are 674 warranty claims tied to the malfunctioning software. The automaker's decision to act swiftly should minimize any potential dangers and provide peace of mind to drivers.
Notably, the Honda recall arrives amid wider safety reviews by the NHTSA, which also announced several recalls affecting Ford vehicles for separate issues. Over 270,000 Ford Bronco and Maverick models have been recalled due to battery problems from the Camel Battery manufacturer. The NHTSA's announcement indicates similar issues could lead to significant battery failures during operation, possibly causing stalls or failure to restart.
One NHTSA report warned, "The (12-volt) battery may experience internal weld and/or cast-on-strap failures, which could lead to sudden battery degradation," underscoring the serious nature of vehicle safety technology.
These recalls, including Honda's, reflect increasing scrutiny on automobile safety and the legislative push for manufacturers to quickly address potential hazards. Honda's proactive approach aims to uphold trust with customers and reinforce their commitment to safety standards.
Owners of impacted vehicles are strongly encouraged to take these warnings seriously and attend to any notifications from Honda. By taking prompt action to address the technical issues, drivers can avoid potential accidents and maintain confidence in their vehicles.