Honda has issued a CR-V crossover recall for 118,598 vehicles because the airbags could deploy inadvertently. According to various news outlets, the vehicles were manufactured between Oct. 3, 2018 and April 1, 2019. Documents filed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration show that 100 percent of the vehicles included in this recall have this safety defect.
CR-V Crossover Recall Damages
The problem essentially stems from the steering system. The metal innards of the recalled vehicles’ steering wheels may contain metal burrs, which are capable of causing damage to a wiring sub-harness to the point of a short circuit. If that occurs, the steering wheel controls might stop working, the airbag light might illuminate or the airbag itself could inadvertently deploy.
Honda began investigating this particular issue after a new car on the production line had a warning light illuminate. Honda and its supplier discovered the root cause and took steps to prevent it from happening again on future parts. As of earlier this month, the automaker had received 41 warranty claims, 20 field reports, and three reports of injuries that are likely linked to this defect.
When the CR-V Crossover recall begins, Honda’s technicians will replace the sub-harness and cable reel and add a protective cover to the steering wheel’s core, which should eliminate the problem. Anyone who had the problem fixed before the factory warranty would have covered the recall announcement. Recall notifications should begin arriving in the mail in July.
Auto Product Liability Issues
While airbag failure can result in major injuries or even fatalities, inadvertent airbag deployment can result in crashes and injuries as well. When an airbag deploys suddenly and with explosive force, it can cause serious injuries including broken ribs and facial injuries. Moreover, a sudden airbag deployment can astonish the driver and result in a car accident.
Anyone who has suffered serious injuries as a result of a defective airbag or any other auto defect would be well advised to preserve the vehicle in its current condition, unaltered so an expert can analyze it for defects, malfunctions, and other evidence. An experienced Southern California auto defect lawyer can advise injured victims and their families regarding their legal rights and options in such cases.
