American Honda is currently recalling a select number of Accord, CR-V and Element for an automatic transmission control module. The issue revolves around a software flaw that is further exemplified when the vehicles are subjected to repetitive shifting from reverse to drive. In a situation where a vehicle needs to be rocked back and forth to become un-stuck from mud or snow, the automatic transmission’s secondary shaft bearing can become damaged, subsequently causing either the engine to stall and or make shifting out of park difficult. The voluntary recall will affect approximately a certain amount of 1.5 million Hondas, including some 2005-2010 four cylinder Accords, 2007-2010 CR-Vs and 2008-2010 Elements.
The recall will update the transmission’s module software, so that rapid shifting will ease the gear engagements. Notification to customers will begin August 31 and will encourage owners to bring their Hondas to a certified dealer for the update.
Read American Honda’s full press release below.
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Honda will voluntarily recall approximately 1.5 million vehicles in the U.S. to update the software that controls the automatic transmission. Certain 2005-2010 4-cylinder Accord, 2007-2010 CR-V and 2005-2008 Element vehicles will be included in the voluntary recall. Without the updated software, the automatic transmission secondary shaft bearing in the affected vehicles can be damaged if the transmission is quickly shifted between each of the reverse, neutral and drive positions, as may be done in an attempt to dislodge a vehicle stuck in mud or snow. If the bearing is damaged in this unusual scenario, it can cause the engine to stall or lead to difficulty engaging the parking gear. The update to the vehicle’s automatic transmission control module software will ease the transition between gears to reduce the possibility of damage. No injuries or deaths have been reported related to this condition.
Honda is announcing this recall to encourage all owners of affected vehicles to take their vehicles to an authorized dealer as soon as they receive notification of this recall from Honda. Notification to customers will begin on August 31, 2011.
When Honda identifies concerns of this nature, nothing is more important to the company than fulfilling our obligation and responsibility to alert our customers. To this end, in addition to contacting customers by mail, after August 31, owners of these vehicles will be able to determine if their vehicles require repair by going on-line to www.recalls.honda.com or by calling (800) 999-1009, and selecting option 4.
Source: Honda
