The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has started a new investigation into Honda and Acura cars. The case involves about 1.4 million vehicles.
The issue comes from reports of connecting rod bearing failures in the 3.5-liter V6 engine. This could point to a new manufacturing problem.
Cars Affected by the Investigation
The investigation covers many popular Honda and Acura models. The cars include:
| Brand | Model | Years |
|---|---|---|
| Acura | TLX | 2018-2020 |
| Acura | MDX | 2016-2020 |
| Honda | Pilot | 2016-2020 |
| Honda | Odyssey | 2018-2020 |
| Honda | Ridgeline | 2017-2019 |
These models are now under review for possible defects.
Reports of Engine Failures
According to the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI), the inquiry began on August 20. So far, ODI has received 414 reports of failures. Honda itself has received nearly 2,600 similar reports.
The early data shows that the failures may come from a new crankshaft defect, not the one found in a past recall.
Previous Recall in 2023
In 2023, Honda recalled around 250,000 vehicles for a similar problem. That issue was caused by crank pins that did not meet standards. This defect caused early wear on the connecting rod bearing.
The cars recalled in 2023 were the same models as today’s list but with different model years. For example, the 2015–2020 TLX and the 2016 Ridgeline were included in the past recall.
Recall Query in 2023
Last year, NHTSA also opened a Recall Query. This happened after 173 reports of more engine failures came in. The issues looked similar to the recall problem, but those cars were not included in the 2023 recall.
This raised concerns that the issue might be bigger than first thought.
What Happens Next
Now, ODI has moved to a Preliminary Evaluation. The goal is to study the problem more deeply. Investigators want to understand how serious it is and if it puts drivers at risk.
NHTSA has said the latest failures seem different from the ones covered by the 2023 recall. But it could still lead to another massive recall.
Possible Future Recall
If the investigation finds a defect, Honda may have to recall over a million more cars. That would be a huge recall, even larger than the one in 2023.
For now, owners of these models will have to wait for the results of NHTSA’s review.
Conclusion
NHTSA is looking into a serious issue with Honda and Acura cars. Over 1.4 million vehicles are under review for a possible engine defect. While a past recall already fixed some cars, new reports suggest another problem may exist.
Honda owners should stay updated and watch for recall notices in the coming months.
FAQs
What cars are under investigation?
2016–2020 Acura MDX, 2018–2020 Acura TLX, 2016–2020 Honda Pilot, 2018–2020 Honda Odyssey, and 2017–2019 Honda Ridgeline.
How many reports of engine failure were filed?
ODI has 414 reports, and Honda has about 2,600.
Was there a recall before?
Yes, in 2023 Honda recalled about 250,000 vehicles for a similar engine issue.
Is this the same problem as before?
No, early evidence shows it may be a different crankshaft defect.
Will there be another recall?
Maybe. It depends on the results of NHTSA’s latest investigation.
