Honda Motor Co. recalls 1.7 million vehicles over steering issue

Honda Motor Co. issued a recall for nearly 1.7 million vehicles due to a manufacturing problem that could result in steering difficulties, potentially leading to crashes. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration announced the safety recall order following complaints from Honda Civic drivers about sticky steering. The affected vehicles are from model years 2022-25 and include specific Acura Integra, Honda Civic, CR-V, and HR-V models.

The issue revolves around incorrect manufacturing of the steering gearbox assembly, causing excessive internal friction. This defect increases the effort needed to turn the steering wheel, posing a risk to driver safety. Despite the initial announcement earlier this year, there have been no reported accidents or injuries directly linked to this problem. Owners will receive notification letters on November 18 instructing them to bring their vehicles to dealers for a free replacement of the worm gear spring and necessary reapplication of grease.

In a separate incident, the U.S. government's auto safety regulator concluded a 2 1/2-year investigation into Ford engine failures after concerns over intake valves fracturing in some 2.7-liter and 3-liter turbocharged engines. The agency found that faulty valves, produced between May and October 2021 by a parts supplier, were susceptible to fracture due to high temperatures during normal engine operation. Ford recalled approximately 91,000 vehicles with these faulty valves and extended warranties for affected vehicles to ensure replacements if required.

Additionally, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is investigating issues related to potential engine failures in around 1.4 million Honda and Acura vehicles. The inquiry covers specific models like the Honda Pilot, Odyssey, Ridgeline, and Acura MDX and TLX from various model years. The focus is on connecting rod bearing failures in 3.5-liter V6 engines, raising concerns about complete engine malfunctions. While Honda had recalled 250,000 vehicles previously for the same problem, reports of failure continue from owners not covered in the initial recall, prompting further investigation by regulators.