Honda Recalls 500,000 Vehicles Due to Seat Belt Issue

by Mindy Cohn

Honda has recalled a half-million of its most popular vehicles sold in the U.S. and Canada after reports of the driver and front passenger seat belts not latching properly.

The recall  includes 

• 2017-2020 Honda CR-V compact crossover
  
• 2018-2022 Honda Odyssey minivan
• 2019 Honda Insight hybrid sedan
• 2019-2020 Acura RDX compact crossover
• 2018-2019 Honda Accord and Accord Hybrid sedans

Honda said on Wednesday that the issue was due to the gradual deterioration of the latching mechanism. Over time, the release button can shrink against the channel at lower temperatures, increasing friction and stopping the buckle from latching and increasing the risk of injury to a driver or passenger in the event of a crash.

No reports of injuries caused by the seatbelt issue have been reported though Honda received 301 warranty claims. 

Owners will be notified by mail of the issue and how to resolve it starting April 17. Honda dealers will be on call to inspect and replace the necessary parts to allow the driver and front passenger seatbelt buckle release buttons or buckle assembly to function properly once again at no charge. Owners who have previously taken care of the work will be reimbursed.

For more info, contact Honda customer service at 1-888-234-2138 or visit Honda's recall site here.