The initial November 2023 recall, designated 23V-751, encompassed a specific range of popular Honda and Acura models. These included “certain 2015-2020 Acura TLX, 2016-2020 Acura MDX, 2016 and 2018-2019 Pilot, 2017 and 2019 Ridgeline, and 2018-2019 Odyssey vehicles.” Owners of these particular models were advised to contact their dealerships immediately for inspection and necessary repairs to mitigate the risks associated with the faulty connecting rod bearings.

What Is the New Problem With These Honda and Acura Vehicles?

The current situation presents a more complex challenge for Honda, Acura, and their customers. The NHTSA is now actively investigating a new wave of engine failure reports involving vehicles that were conspicuously absent from the original 2023 recall list. Despite not being part of the initial recall, these vehicles are exhibiting a concerning range of engine failure symptoms that bear striking similarities to those caused by the original connecting rod bearing defect.

The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI), a branch of the NHTSA responsible for investigating potential safety defects, has been inundated with consumer reports. The latest brief from the ODI confirms that it has received “173 Vehicle Owner Questionnaire (VOQ) reports of failing connecting rod bearings.” These VOQs are critical in initiating and guiding investigations, as they provide direct accounts from consumers experiencing safety-related issues with their vehicles. The sheer volume and consistency of these reports indicate a potentially systemic problem beyond the scope of the original recall.

Key Characteristics of the New Engine Failure Reports

A crucial commonality identified in these new reports is the presence of the 3.5-liter V6 engine. This particular engine configuration is widely used across various popular Honda and Acura models, which explains the potentially vast scale of this new investigation. The reported issues often manifest as unusual engine noises, reduced power, or sudden stalling – all indicators that align with the symptoms of connecting rod bearing wear.

The impacted vehicles currently under the microscope of the NHTSA’s investigation include:

• 2018-2020 Acura TLX
• 2016-2020 Acura MDX
• 2016-2020 Honda Pilot
• 2018-2019 Honda Odyssey
• 2017-2019 Honda Ridgeline

It is imperative to reiterate that none of these specific model years were initially included in the recall designated 23V-751. However, the troubling fact is that these vehicles now “have characteristics consistent with those addressed in recall 23V-751.” This suggests that the underlying manufacturing defect, or a very similar issue, might be more pervasive than previously understood, affecting a broader range of the 3.5L V6 engine production.

While the initial count of Vehicle Owner Questionnaire reports stands at 173, this number represents only a fraction of the potential problem. The NHTSA estimates that a staggering number of vehicles—over 1.4 million—could ultimately be affected if a new recall is deemed necessary. This makes it one of the most significant potential recalls in recent Honda history, with profound implications for vehicle owners and the brand’s reputation.

Symptoms to Watch For: Is Your Honda or Acura at Risk?

For owners of the models listed above, particularly those equipped with the 3.5L V6 engine, it’s crucial to be vigilant for any signs of engine trouble. Early detection can prevent more severe damage and potential safety hazards. Key symptoms to watch out for include:

• Unusual Engine Noises: A persistent knocking, ticking, or rattling sound, especially noticeable during startup, acceleration, or idle, could indicate a problem with connecting rod bearings.
• Check Engine Light: The illumination of your vehicle’s check engine light, sometimes accompanied by a specific diagnostic trouble code (DTC) related to engine performance or misfires.
• Reduced Engine Performance: A noticeable decrease in power, acceleration, or overall engine responsiveness.
• Engine Stalling: The engine unexpectedly shutting off while driving, particularly at lower speeds or when coming to a stop. This is a severe safety hazard.
• Oil Pressure Warning Light: An illuminated oil pressure warning light on your dashboard, which could signal insufficient lubrication to critical engine components.
• Burning Oil Smell: An unusual smell of burning oil or smoke emanating from the engine bay, which might indicate severe internal engine damage or oil leaks due to component failure.

If you experience any of these symptoms, it is highly recommended to seek professional inspection immediately. Continuing to drive a vehicle with suspected engine problems can exacerbate the damage and pose a significant safety risk.

How Do I Fix My Honda or Acura Vehicles’ Engine Failure?

For vehicles included in the original November 2023 recall (23V-751), the prescribed fix was straightforward: owners were directed to visit an authorized Honda or Acura dealership for a thorough inspection. Dealers would assess the engine for signs of connecting rod bearing wear or damage and perform necessary repairs or replacements, typically at no cost to the owner, as is standard practice with safety recalls.

However, for the new batch of vehicles currently under investigation by the NHTSA, a definitive resolution has not yet been announced. Since the investigation is ongoing, it is still too early to determine what the official “fix” will be or if a new recall will even be issued. The NHTSA’s Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) will conduct an exhaustive engineering analysis to ascertain the scope, frequency, and severity of the defect before making a formal recommendation. This process can take several months.

In response to the escalating concerns and the official NHTSA investigation, Honda has issued a statement to USA TODAY, affirming its commitment to cooperating fully with the NHTSA’s inquiry. This cooperation is a crucial step in ensuring that a thorough and fair assessment of the problem is conducted. For owners of the potentially affected models (2016-2020 Acura MDX, 2018-2020 Acura TLX, 2016-2020 Honda Pilot, 2018-2019 Honda Odyssey, and 2017-2019 Honda Ridgeline), the best course of action at this stage is to stay informed. Regularly check the NHTSA website for updates, monitor official communications from Honda or Acura, and consider filing a Vehicle Owner Questionnaire (VOQ) if you have experienced any of the symptoms mentioned above. Keeping detailed service records and notes on any engine issues you’ve encountered will also be beneficial.

What to Expect During an NHTSA Investigation

The NHTSA investigation typically follows a structured process:

1. Information Gathering: This initial phase relies heavily on VOQs from consumers, warranty claims data, and field reports from manufacturers.
2. Preliminary Evaluation (PE): If enough information suggests a safety defect, the ODI opens a PE to further analyze the scope and severity of the potential problem.
3. Engineering Analysis (EA): Should the PE reveal a credible safety concern, the investigation escalates to an EA. This involves more rigorous testing, data analysis, and communication with the manufacturer to understand the technical aspects of the defect.
4. Recall Request: Based on the findings of the EA, the NHTSA may request the manufacturer to issue a safety recall. If the manufacturer declines, the NHTSA can compel a recall.

This process ensures that any recall decision is based on thorough technical evaluation and public safety considerations. Owners should understand that while an investigation is underway, there is no immediate “fix” or recall program in place for these newly identified issues until the NHTSA concludes its findings.