Honda is recalling approximately 450,000 vehicles due to possible faulty seat belts.
The recall affects several models manufactured between late 2016 and mid-2019, including the 2017-2020 model years.
The company said the driver and front passenger seat belts may not meet specifications, which could interfere with the locking mechanism.
The recall affects the 2017-2019 CR-V, 2018-2019 Accord, 2018-2020 Odyssey, and 2019 Insight.
It also includes the 2019-2020 Acura RDX, with 448,613 vehicles participating in total, however, only one percent is estimated to have this problem.
HONDA RECALL: Honda is recalling nearly half a million cars because of a potential seatbelt problem. Government regulators say several models, going back to 2017, including, CRVs, Accords and Odyssey minivans have driver and front passenger seatbelts that may not latch correctly. pic.twitter.com/LIAi8C5uj0
— CBS Evening News (@CBSEveningNews) March 15, 2023
- An out-of-specification seat belt buckle channel may interfere with the release button, and over time, continued use can cause deterioration of the belt layer, increasing friction and possibly causing problems that may prevent the buckle from closing.
- An improperly closed buckle may not secure the occupant in the event of an accident, increasing the risk of injury or death.
- Honda has not heard of any incidents involving injuries or fatalities.
- However, it received 301 warranty claims for defective seat belts. The automaker began researching the matter in June 2019 and ran durability tests in November 2019.
- Over the next few years, Honda continued to investigate the seat belts, identifying a defect earlier this month and issuing a recall.
- Affected owners will receive instructions from Honda on where to take their recalled vehicles.
- The dealer will perform an inspection and replacement of the driver and front passenger seat belt buckle release buttons as a minimum, and the dealer may replace the buckle assembly based on the evaluation.
- Honda has already informed dealers of the recall, claims the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
- Notification of owners will begin by mid-April when owners who have already paid for these repairs will be entitled to compensation.