Honda has initiated a recall of 98,892 vehicles in the US. The recall addresses a defect in the front passenger seat weight sensor, a component crucial for determining occupant presence and controlling airbag deployment during a collision.

Filings with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) indicate the problem originates from a capacitor on the circuit board of the seat weight sensor system. Under high humidity, this component can develop micro-cracks, allowing moisture to enter and cause an internal short circuit. This can lead the system to misinterpret the passenger seat's weight or status, resulting in incorrect airbag deployment.

Honda stated the defect could cause the front and knee airbags on the passenger side to deploy in situations where they should be deactivated. For instance, if a rear-facing child seat is installed, a small child is present, or a low-weight passenger occupies the seat, the safety system typically disables these airbags to mitigate injury risk. Incorrect sensor data, however, could lead to airbag activation during a collision.

A 2022 Honda CR-V in the US market, one of the models affected by the recall. Photo: Motor1

NHTSA determined this condition heightens the risk of injury for front passenger occupants, particularly children and smaller individuals. Despite this, Honda reported no fatalities, injuries, or accidents directly linked to the defect.

The recall impacts numerous Honda and Acura models produced from 2016 to 2026. Honda clarified this recall is an extension of a campaign initially announced in 2024. During its investigation, the manufacturer found the supplier had not fully identified the range of potentially defective components in the earlier recall. Following additional review of production data, Honda opted to include nearly 100,000 more vehicles for inspection and repair.

Owners might notice the problem through an abnormal airbag system warning light or a front passenger airbag status indicator on the dashboard. However, Honda cautioned that not all affected vehicles will display a clear warning. Therefore, owners of recalled vehicles should still take their cars to a dealership for inspection.

Honda and Acura dealerships will replace the passenger seat weight sensor assembly with an improved component free of charge. The company anticipates mailing notification letters to vehicle owners beginning early July. This recall marks the latest in a series of airbag system campaigns in the US market, a domain closely scrutinized by regulatory bodies due to its direct influence on passenger safety during accidents.

Ho Tan (according to Motor1)