If you own a Honda Accord, staying informed about safety recalls is crucial for your peace of mind. This article will explain what Honda Accords are being recalled and what you need to do next.
Recalls happen when a manufacturer or a safety agency like the NHTSA identifies a potential defect that could risk your safety. For a popular model like the Accord, which has millions of units on the road, these announcements can affect many owners. We’ll break down the recent recalls, how to check your specific vehicle, and the straightforward steps to get any problem fixed, usually at no cost to you.
What Honda Accords Are Being Recalled?
Recent recall campaigns for the Honda Accord have focused on a few key areas. The most significant ones involve fuel pump failures, faulty battery sensors, and issues with missing front seat belt pretensioners. These recalls span model years from 2018 through 2022 primarily.
It’s important to note that recall lists are frequently updated. The information here is accurate as of this writing, but you should always double-check using your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). Here’s a summary of the major recent recalls:
* Fuel Pump Failure (Multiple Model Years): This is a widespread recall affecting many Honda models. The fuel pump inside the fuel tank may fail. If it does, your engine could stall while driving, increasing the risk of a crash.
* 12-Volt Battery Sensor (2020-2022 Accord): A faulty sensor could cause a short circuit. In rare cases, this presents a risk of an engine compartment fire, even when the car is parked and turned off.
* Missing Front Seat Belt Pretensioner (2018-2020 Accord): Some vehicles were assembled without a crucial component in the front seat belt pretensioner. In a crash, the seat belt might not restrain the occupant as effectively, leading to a higher chance of injury.
* Rearview Camera Display (2018-2019 Accord): An software issue may cause the rearview camera image not to appear on the display screen when you shift into reverse. This violates federal safety standards and reduces your visibility.
How to Check if Your Honda Accord Has a Recall
Don’t assume your car is affected just by it’s model year. The only surefire way to know is to check using your 17-character VIN. This number is unique to your vehicle. Here’s how to find it and use it.
Finding Your VIN:
1. Look at the lower-left corner of your windshield, visible from the outside.
2. Open your driver’s side door and check the door jamb sticker.
3. Your vehicle registration or insurance card will also list the VIN.
Checking Your VIN for Free:
1. Go to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) website (nhtsa.gov/recalls).
2. Enter your VIN in the search tool. It will show all unrepaired recalls for your vehicle.
3. Alternatively, visit Honda’s official recall website (owners.honda.com/service-recalls) and enter your VIN there.
You can also call your local Honda dealership. They can run your VIN over the phone and tell you if any open recalls exist. They should be able to schedule an appointment for you right then.
Detailed Breakdown of Recent Accord Recalls
Let’s look a bit closer at each major recall to understand the risks and symptoms.
Fuel Pump Recall (Recall 20V-355 / 21V-261)
This recall affects certain 2018-2020 Honda Accords, among other models. The impeller inside the fuel pump was improperly manufactured. Over time, it can deform and stop working.
* What to watch for: Engine doesn’t start, loss of power while driving, sputtering, or stalling.
* The fix: Dealers will replace the faulty fuel pump module with a new one. The repair takes a few hours and is free of charge.
12-Volt Battery Sensor Recall (Recall 22V-652)
This applies to certain 2020-2022 Accord hybrids. The sensor attached to the 12-volt battery could allow moisture to enter, leading to corrosion and a short circuit.
* What to watch for: You might smell smoke or see melting/burning near the battery. Your car might also have electrical issues.
* The fix: Dealers will inspect the sensor and replace it if necessary. They will also install a new fuse cover for added protection.
Missing Seat Belt Pretensioner Recall (Recall 21V-547)
Certain 2018-2020 Accords may have been built without a component called the “charge propellant sub-assembly” in the front seat belt pretensioners. This part helps tighten the belt in a collision.
* What to watch for: There are no warning symptoms for this defect. It will only become apparent in a crash, which is why checking your VIN is so critical.
* The fix: Dealers will inspect both front seat belt pretensioners and replace them if the component is missing. This repair is completly free.
Step-by-Step: What to Do If Your Accord is Recalled
Receiving a recall notice can be worrying, but the process to fix it is designed to be simple. Here’s exactly what you should do.
1. Don’t Panic. A recall is a preventative measure. It means Honda has identified a potential issue and is commited to fixing it.
2. Read the Official Notice. You will get a letter in the mail from Honda. It will describe the problem, the risk, and the next steps. Keep this letter.
3. Contact a Honda Dealership. Call the service department of any authorized Honda dealer. Provide them with your VIN to confirm the recall and schedule an appointment. You do not have to go to the dealer you bought the car from.
4. Schedule the Repair. Repairs for safety recalls are always performed at no cost to you. The dealer should handle everything. Ask for a loaner car if the repair will take more than a day, though availability may vary.
5. Get the Repair Done. Bring your vehicle in at the scheduled time. The technician will perform the required inspection and replacement.
6. Keep Your Paperwork. After the repair, you will get a work order confirming the recall was completed. File this with your vehicle’s maintenance records.
Why Recalls Happen and Your Rights
Recalls are a standard part of the automotive industry. They occur when a problem is found after vehicles have been sold. This can be through internal testing, dealer reports, or customer complaints. The NHTSA monitors all safety-related defects.
As a vehicle owner, you have important rights:
* Free Repair: The manufacturer is required by law to fix the safety defect for free.
* Reasonable Time: The dealer should complete the repair within a reasonable time once parts are available.
* Notification: You should receive a letter in the mail for any safety recall. However, if you bought the car used, you may not be in the system. That’s why proactive VIN checks are essential.
If a dealer tries to charge you for a recall repair, contact Honda Customer Service directly at 1-888-234-2138. They will help resolve the situation.
FAQ: Honda Accord Recalls
Q: How will I know if my Honda Accord is recalled?
A: You should get a letter in the mail from Honda. However, you should also periodically check your VIN on the NHTSA or Honda website, especially if you bought the car used.
Q: Are Honda recall repairs really free?
A: Yes, 100%. By law, all safety recall repairs must be performed at no cost to the vehicle owner. This includes parts, labor, and any related diagnostics.
Q: What if my Accord has a problem but there’s no recall?
A: You can report it to the NHTSA. If they see a pattern of similar complaints, it could lead to an investigation and a future recall. Always report safety concerns on the NHTSA website.
Q: Is it safe to drive my Accord if it has an open recall?
A: It depends on the recall. For something like a faulty fuel pump that could cause stalling, you should get it fixed immediately. For others, like a rearview camera display, you can use extra caution until your appointment. The recall notice will specify any urgent warnings.
Q: How long do I have to get a recall fixed?
A: There is no time limit for safety recalls. Even if your Accord is 10 years old and the recall was just announced, you are still entitled to the free repair. However, for some older “non-safety” campaigns, there might be time limits.
Q: Can I sell a car with an open recall?
A: Yes, you can legally sell it. However, it’s ethical to inform the buyer and provide them with the recall information. Many used car dealers will fix open recalls before putting a vehicle on their lot.
Q: Do recalls affect my car’s value?
A: Not typically, especially once the recall is repaired. An open recall might give a buyer some negotiation leverage, but a fixed recall shows the car has been maintained and is up to date on safety issues.
Staying Proactive with Your Vehicle’s Safety
Recalls are a fact of car ownership, but they don’t have to be a headache. By knowing what Honda Accords are being recalled and taking a few minutes to check your VIN, you can ensure your vehicle remains safe and reliable.
Make it a habit to check for recalls every six months or when you get your oil changed. Register your vehicle on Honda’s owner site to ensure you recieve all future communications directly. Your safety, and that of your passengers, is worth that small bit of effort. Remember, addressing recalls promptly is a key part of responsible vehicle maintenance.