Crash tests performed recently indicate that an estimated 313,000 Honda and Acura models are too dangerous to drive. The models have faulty airbags made by Takata that have a higher than normal chance of rupturing upon deployment. In many of the 2001-2003 models the vehicle airbags rupture rates were as high as 50%. When the airbags ruptured in these tests, they sent shrapnel into that cabin that would likely injure or kill the passenger.
These particular models are some of the oldest model cars involved in the Takata recall. One of the problems with all of the Takata devices is that they contain a highly volatile chemical that breaks down with age, and exposure to heat and humidity.
Owners of any of the recalled cars included in the Takata recall are faced with a horrible decision on a daily basis. Owners must continually ask themselves, “Is my vehicle safe to drive?” or even worse, “Is this vehicle safe for my child to drive?”
Two Senators, one from Connecticut and the other from Maine, want Honda to issue a “Do Not Drive” order warning to the selected Honda and Acura owners. They urged Honda to provide free vehicle towing or allowing mechanics to travel to the vehicle in order to replace the airbags. Honda has not complied with this request and has not adequately warned its customers of the dangerous defect.
Instead, Honda has urged owners of these models to only drive their vehicles to the dealerships to get them repaired. Honda has also stated that they will cover the cost of towing for any customer who feels “uncomfortable” driving the affected cars.
So far, there’s only a 70% completion rate for fixing these older models. While cars are being repaired, Honda is offering the use of a loaner car.
The affected models are as follows:
- 2001-2002 Honda Accord
- 2001-2002 Honda Civic
- 2002 Honda CR-V
- 2003 Honda Pilot
- 2002-2003 Acura 3.2TL
- 2003 Acura 3.2CL
The NHSTA estimates that over 70 million vehicles will be recalled by December 2019. Recalls are expected to continue for several years because new models are still being produced with the defective airbags.
