Honda Calls Back Minivans Over Faulty Airbags

Honda is recalling nearly 450,000 Odyssey minivans due to a serious airbag problem that is already causing havoc on the road.

The vehicles’ side curtain airbags could inadvertently deploy without warning, the automaker recently told federal regulators. Honda said it is aware of at least 25 injuries allegedly related to the defect and has already received at least 130 warranty claims.

A software problem is to blame, Honda said in a recall report filed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. “Incorrect deployment parameters for the side and side curtain airbags,” the automaker said, “may cause inadvertent deployment when the vehicle encounters strong road impacts, such as driving over potholes, speed bumps, or road debris.”

The recall covers certain 2018-2022 Honda Odyssey minivans that were produced between January 2017 and June 2022. Honda said it plans to notify owners of recalled vehicles by the end of May. Owners can also check the NHTSA website to see if their cars are covered by the recall.

Honda wants owners of recalled cars to bring their vehicles to authorized service providers for inspection and possible repair. Service providers will reprogram or replace software “with improved airbag deployment parameters,” Honda said.

The recall comes shortly after Chrysler called back its own minivans over separate airbag issues. The automaker recalled some 200,000 Pacifica and Voyager minivans, saying their side curtain airbags may not deploy as intended in crashes.

How the California Lemon Law Works

Honda and other major auto manufacturers recall a slew of vehicles every year, citing a wide range of defects that increase safety risks for drivers, passengers, and everyone sharing the road with them. 

Late last year, for example, Honda called back some 400,000 new Civics whose wheels could fall off. Honda, six months earlier, announced it was recalling 184,000 Pilot sport utility vehicles whose brake pedals could come loose.

Here is the good news: The California lemon law gives Honda owners and lessors across the state some strong rights and protections. Namely, you do not need to wait for a recall to get a defective or malfunctioning car repaired.

The lemon law requires carmakers to perform a wide range of repairs on vehicles while they are under warranty. It also requires auto manufacturers to buy back (or, in some cases, replace) covered vehicles that they are unable or flat-out refuse to fix. That includes compensating the owner for the purchase price, as well as financing fees, rental car costs, and other related expenses.

There is no specific number of repair requests or attempts required before the buyback or replace requirement kicks in. That is one reason why it is important to consult an experienced California lemon law attorney, who will help you understand your rights and take action.

Speak with a Sacramento Lemon Law Attorney

If you have been stuck with a defective or malfunctioning vehicle, a Sacramento lemon law attorney at Bickel Sannipoli APC can help you fight back.  

Call us at (888) 800-1983 or contact us online to speak with a Sacramento lemon law attorney.