American Honda has announced a voluntary safety recall affecting approximately 295,000 Honda and Acura vehicles in the United States. The recall primarily targets the popular Honda Pilot, along with certain Acura MDX and TLX models, due to a potential issue stemming from improper programming of the fuel injection electronic control unit (FI-ECU). This programming error could lead to serious drivability concerns, including engine hesitation, stalling, and loss of drive power, thereby increasing the risk of accidents.
The issue originates from the FI-ECU software, which in some instances, may not properly respond to sudden throttle changes. This malfunction can trigger the check engine light and subsequently cause the engine to behave erratically. Specifically, drivers might experience engine hesitation, a complete loss of drive power, or engine stalling. While American Honda has stated they have not received reports of crashes or injuries related to this issue, the potential safety implications are significant, prompting this proactive recall.
Image alt text: A 2023 Honda Pilot SUV is shown in a dealership service bay, representing vehicles affected by the FI-ECU software recall. The recall aims to prevent potential engine stalling and ensure driver safety.
The Honda Pilot Recall encompasses models from the 2023-2025 model years. In addition to the Pilot, certain Acura models are also affected: the 2022-2025 Acura MDX Type S and the 2021-2025 Acura TLX Type S. It is crucial for owners of these specific models to ascertain if their vehicle is included in this recall. The recall is VIN-specific, meaning not every vehicle within these model ranges is necessarily affected.
To address this Honda Pilot recall and related Acura recalls, Honda and Acura dealerships are authorized to perform a free software update to the FI-ECU. This software update is designed to rectify the improper programming and eliminate the potential for engine stalling and related issues. The repair will be conducted at no cost to vehicle owners.
Notifications regarding the Honda Pilot recall and the Acura recalls will be sent out to registered owners via mail starting in March. These notifications will instruct owners to schedule an appointment with their local authorized Honda or Acura dealership to have the FI-ECU software updated. Honda strongly encourages owners to respond promptly to the recall notification and bring their vehicles in for the free software update as soon as possible to mitigate any potential safety risks.
Vehicle owners who want to proactively check if their Honda Pilot, Acura MDX, or Acura TLX is affected by this recall can utilize online resources provided by Honda and Acura. Owners can visit www.recalls.honda.com for Honda vehicles or www.recalls.acura.com for Acura vehicles and enter their Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) to check their recall status. Alternatively, owners can contact the American Honda customer service line at (888) 234-2138 for further information and assistance regarding this Honda Pilot recall and the related Acura recalls. Honda is committed to ensuring the safety and satisfaction of its customers and is taking proactive steps to resolve this issue through this voluntary recall and software update program.
