In January 2025, Honda announced a recall of approximately 295,000 vehicles in the United States due to a software issue that could cause engines to stall unexpectedly. The affected models include:
- 2022-2025 Acura MDX Type-S
- 2021-2025 Acura TLX Type-S
- 2023-2025 Honda Pilot
The issue stems from improper settings in the fuel injection electronic control unit (FI-ECU). Sudden changes in throttle opening can trigger a torque control failure, leading to engine hesitation, loss of power, or stalling. As of mid-January 2025, Honda had received 674 warranty claims related to this problem but reported no crashes or injuries.
How Do You Know If Your Car Is Part Of The Honda Recall?
To check if your vehicle is part of this recall, locate your 17-character Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), which can be found on the lower left of your car’s windshield or on your vehicle’s registration card. Once you have your VIN, visit the Honda Recall Information page and enter the number to see if your vehicle is affected. Alternatively, you can use the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recall lookup tool for information.
Steps to Take if Your Vehicle Is Recalled
If your vehicle is identified as part of the recall:
- Contact Your Local Dealer: Reach out to an authorized Honda or Acura dealership to schedule a service appointment. Dealers will reprogram the FI-ECU software at no cost to you.
- Await Official Notification: Honda plans to mail notification letters to affected owners starting in March 2025. However, proactively checking your vehicle’s status and scheduling repairs is advisable.
- Stay Informed: For additional information or assistance, contact Honda Automobile Customer Service at (888) 234-2138.
Can I Ignore The Honda Recall?
Ignoring a recall, especially one related to engine stalling, can lead to serious safety risks and potential long-term consequences for both you and your vehicle. Here’s what could happen if you choose not to address the Honda recall:
1. Increased Risk of Accidents
Since this recall involves a faulty fuel injection electronic control unit (FI-ECU), your vehicle could experience unexpected stalling or loss of power. This can be especially dangerous if it happens while driving at high speeds or in heavy traffic, increasing the risk of an accident.
2. Potential Engine Damage
Software-related engine issues can worsen over time. If the FI-ECU is not fixed, it could lead to further mechanical problems, potentially causing costly repairs that wouldn’t have been necessary if the recall was addressed.
3. Higher Repair Costs in the Future
If you ignore the recall and later experience engine failure or power loss, you may have to pay out of pocket for diagnostics and repairs that would have otherwise been covered by Honda. Even if the recall is still active, waiting too long could lead to additional issues not covered by the manufacturer.
4. Lower Resale Value
When selling or trading in your vehicle, an open recall could lower its value. Many buyers and dealerships check for recalls using a vehicle’s VIN, and unresolved recall issues may make the car less desirable.
5. Possible Legal or Insurance Complications
- Liability Issues: If you get into an accident due to the recall-related issue and knowingly ignored the recall, you could be held liable.
- Insurance Complications: Some insurance companies might not cover damages caused by known recall-related defects, arguing that the driver failed to take necessary action.
6. Potential Future Repair Delays
Ignoring the recall now could make it harder to get the fix later. If too many affected vehicles experience problems at once, repair appointments may become backlogged, and you will have to wait longer to get it fixed.
Schedule Your Honda Recall Service In Denver
Even if you haven’t noticed any issues with your vehicle, it is always best to address a recall promptly. Scheduling a free repair appointment with an authorized Honda or Acura dealer ensures your car remains safe and reliable while preventing potential future problems.
Mile High Honda is a certified Denver Honda dealership with a dedicated repairs department that specializes in all aspects of your Honda. Trust us to get your vehicle running smoothly and safely. Call or go online to schedule your service today.
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