Faulty passenger airbag sensors in several Honda and Acura models prompted Honda to recall over 750,000 vehicles.
The recall, announced on Monday, covers several 2020-2022 model year vehicles—including Honda Pilot, Accord, Civic, HR-V, and Odyssey sedans. According to documents published by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the recall also includes 2020 Fit and Civic coupes.
Additionally affected are 2021 and 2022 hatchbacks of Civic, as well as 2021 models of Civic Type R and Insight, and the 2020 and 2021 models of CR-V, CR-V Hybrid, Passport, Ridgeline, and Accord Hybrid. Among Acura models, the luxury brand of Honda, the affected vehicles include MDX 2020 and 2022, RDX 2020-2022, and TLX 2020 and 2021.
The reason for the recall is a problem with the weight sensor on the front passenger seat. The sensors disable the airbags if children or small adults occupy the seat.
"The front passenger seat weight sensor can crack and short circuit, preventing the airbag from functioning properly," the documents published by NHTSA state. "As a result, an airbag that deploys during a crash may increase the risk of injury."
According to Honda, from June 30, 2020, to January 19, 2024, there have been 3,834 warranty claims related to safety sensors, but no reports of injuries or deaths due to this issue, reports The Associated Press.
Dealers will replace the seat sensors free of charge, the Traffic Safety Administration announced. The automaker will begin notifying owners on March 18.
Owners can contact Honda customer support at 888-234-2138 or call the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration hotline at 888-327-4236.
