Honda is recalling vehicles in the United States due to an electric power steering software defect that can cause an unexpected loss of power assist. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration published safety recall notices covering Acura TLX, Acura MDX, and Honda Pilot models. Honda said in its safety filing that the electric power steering assist software may cause the system to enter a failsafe mode and lose power steering assist.
Automotive engineers determined that incorrect algorithmic sensor interpretations can trigger an abrupt deactivation of steering motor assistance. The manufacturer had received warranty claims associated with the defect, including a report of an injury. Federal regulators warned that sudden increases in steering effort impair vehicle control and elevate crash hazards in congested traffic.
Authorized Honda and Acura dealerships will reprogram the electric power steering control software free of charge for affected owners, with the software flash procedure requiring diagnostic time without mechanical hardware replacement. Official owner notification letters are scheduled to be mailed under recall campaign codes. Honda customer care portals have been updated to allow drivers to check individual vehicle identification numbers.
