Honda To Recall 412,000 Vehicles

Honda Motor Co. will recall 412,000 vehicles in the United States, according to a statement made by the Japanese automaker today. The recall covers 344,000 Odyssey minivans and 68,000 Element SUVs from the 2007 and 2008 model years.

Honda announced the recall to address potential issues with the Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) modulator. Over time, brake pedals on the affected models may feel soft and slip down closer to the floor.

“Some VSA modulators were assembled in a manner that could allow air intrusion, making it possible for air to enter the modulator during the VSA self-check mode,” the company said in a statement to media.

“While only a miniscule amount of air can enter the system during each check, over a period of months or years, the air will accumulate and can result in the ‘soft brake pedal’ or ‘low brake pedal’ condition symptoms associated with this issue.”

The recall was announced to address customer complaints regarding the issue.

“My 2007 Honda Odyssey brakes are too soft,” read one complaint filed to the NHTSA. “I need to put extra pressure to bring the vehicle to a stop. Brakes have to be depressed all the way to the floor to stop...”

According to Honda spokesman Chris Martin, several crashes and three minor injuries have been reported that cited the problem.

The automaker announced the recall to encourage owners of the affected vehicles to see an authorized dealer as soon as they receive notification. Honda said that customers will receive notifications at the end of April.

“Although not all vehicles being recalled are affected by this issue, we are recalling all possible units to assure all customers that their vehicles will perform correctly,” said Honda.

“When Honda identifies concerns of this nature, nothing is more important to the company than fulfilling our obligation and responsibility to alert our customers.”

Owners of affected vehicles can contact their dealer or Honda directly by going to www.recalls.honda.com or calling (800) 999-1009.