Honda is recalling 98,892 US cars due to a defective passenger seat sensor that can trigger airbags improperly. Learn how to check if your vehicle is affected and get it fixed today.
Honda Motor Co. announced a major recall in the United States, affecting 98,892 Honda and Acura vehicles produced between 2016 and 2026. The recall targets a defective passenger‑seat weight sensor that can cause the front‑impact airbag and the knee‑airbag on the passenger side to deploy when they should remain disabled.
Why the sensor matters
The sensor determines whether a passenger is seated, the weight of that passenger, and whether a child‑safety seat is installed. A tiny capacitor on the sensor’s circuit board may develop micro‑cracks in high‑humidity conditions. Moisture can then infiltrate the component, leading to short‑circuits and inaccurate weight readings.
If the system receives the wrong data, it may trigger the airbags even when a child seat is installed rear‑facing or when a lightweight occupant is present—situations where the airbags are normally suppressed to reduce injury risk.
Models covered by the recall
- Honda Accord (2016‑2023)
- Honda Civic (2016‑2022)
- Honda CR‑V (2017‑2024)
- Honda Pilot (2016‑2025)
- Acura TLX (2018‑2023)
- Acura MDX (2017‑2024)
- Other Honda and Acura models equipped with the affected sensor
How to tell if your car is affected
Owners may see a warning light on the instrument panel indicating an airbag system fault or an unusual passenger‑airbag status indicator. However, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) notes that not every vehicle will display a clear alert, so the safest approach is to verify your VIN against the official recall list.
What to do next
If your vehicle’s VIN is part of the recall, schedule a free repair at an authorized Honda or Acura dealer. The fix involves replacing the passenger‑seat weight sensor with an improved, moisture‑resistant unit. Honda plans to mail recall notices to owners beginning in early July.
Dealership response
All repairs will be performed at no cost to the owner. Dealers are instructed to complete the replacement promptly and to reset the airbag control module after the new sensor is installed.
While the defect raises safety concerns—especially for children and smaller passengers—Honda reports no injuries, fatalities, or crashes linked to the issue so far.
Stay informed, check your recall status, and ensure your vehicle receives the necessary service to keep you and your passengers safe.