Honda Issues Long-Delayed Recall of Odyssey Minivans

According to Forbes, Honda has issued a recall of approximately 634,000 Odyssey minivans. The recall comes six years after the first problem was reported. The recall is designed to fix a problem with the second row of seats in the car.

About the Honda Odyssey Recall

The second row is designed to slide forward to allow passenger access to the third row of seats. Honda has found that the second row may not always lock in place when returned to its original position.

This glitch could increase the risk of injuries.
The recall affects 2011-2016 model year Honda Odyssey minivans.

Incidents and Injuries Related to Recalled Odyssey Minivans

Honda asserts that while 689 warranty claims for repairs have been made, it is not aware of any crashes or injuries related to the row of seats.

In contrast, some owners of the minivans have complained to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration that injuries incurred were due to the glitch.

Two owners complained that the rear seats flipped forward and even detached, throwing children against the front seats, causing cuts and bruises.

Timeline of the Recall of Honda Odyssey Minivans

• Honda got its first notice of a possible problem in January 2011 after a warranty claim. This was not acted upon because Honda could not determine the cause.
• In 2014 an owner of the minivan complained on the N.H.T.S.A. website of the seats sliding even when driving at slow speeds.
• In January 2015 Honda received a complaint about a sliding seat problem.
• Honda was not able to reproduce the sliding seat problem until June 2015.
• In May 2016 Honda asked dealers to forward them complaints related to the part.
• In September 2016 an owner complained on the N.H.T.S.A. website of the seats not latching properly.
• In November 2016, Honda was able to consistently reproduce the problem and confirmed its cause. It informed federal regulators of a recall in December.