The incorporation of car backup cameras has significantly enhanced safety, reducing backing crashes by over 17% according to the IIHS. However, even this modern automotive feature, which has been mandated in vehicles since 2018, is not impervious to malfunctions. Regrettably, on June 15, 2023, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) issued a recall for over 1 million Honda SUVs due to a problem with their backup cameras. If you or someone you know owns a Honda, it is important to read on to determine if your model is affected and to understand Honda’s plans for rectifying the issue.
Reasons for the Honda Recall
The NHTSA estimates that approximately 50% of the 1,198,280 recalled Honda units are equipped with a faulty coaxial cable in their backup cameras. The official recall statement clarifies, “The Media Oriented Systems Transport (MOST) communication coaxial cable was improperly designed and manufactured, leading to deformed terminals and potentially causing intermittent poor or lost connections between the audio display unit and the vehicle cable connector.”
In essence, the power supply to the infotainment screen system may experience intermittent disruptions, and some Honda owners have reported instances where their screens stopped functioning, even after power was restored. Affected infotainment screens may also exhibit flickering or produce popping and crackling sounds. Unfortunately, this is not a car problem that can be resolved by the vehicle owners themselves.
Which Honda Models are Affected?
Honda is recalling the following models and model years:
- 2018-2023 Honda Odysseys
- 2019-2022 Honda Pilots
- 2019-2023 Honda Passports
Although Honda identified these specific backup camera failures earlier this year, the company has been addressing similar screen and cable issues for several years. According to Autoweek, they received a report in 2019 highlighting screen flickering problems, which they attempted to address by requesting their cable supplier to increase the length of the coaxial cable in 2020 models. Additionally, the company implemented waterproof couplers in the Odyssey, Pilot, and Passport models. However, when these measures did not resolve the issue, they extended the warranty on affected 2021 models.
What Should I Do if My Honda Vehicle Is Recalled?
In the event that your Honda vehicle is subject to a recall, you will be notified by the company between July 24 and August 4. According to Honda’s official submission to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the company will rectify the affected models and their backup cameras at no expense to the owners, thereby ensuring the continued safety and enjoyment of driving a Honda.
Upon receiving the notification, Honda owners will have the option to visit authorized Honda dealerships, where qualified experts will install an enhanced cable harness that connects to the car’s existing terminal connections, along with a straightening cover over the cable connector. These additional components are anticipated to enhance the stability of the cable connection. In the interim, it is also possible to purchase a mountable backup camera or explore other intriguing car technology add-ons.
