Fire Risk Causes Honda to Recall 2.1 Million Vehicles Worldwide

After receiving at least four reports of engine fires in the United States, and at least one in Canada, Honda has issued a recall of roughly 2.1 million vehicles worldwide. All reports of fires have come from locations where salt is regularity used on roads in the winter months. No injuries have been reported in relation to the fires.

According to Honda, an issue concerning the vehicles 12-volt battery censors has caused the fires.

“The battery sensors may not be sufficiently sealed against moisture intrusion,” Honda said. “Over time, moisture may introduce road salt or other material into the battery sensor, leading to rust and eventual electrical shorting of the sensor.”

Included in the recall are over one million Honda Accord vehicles manufactured between 2013-2016 in the United States, and almost one million more originating elsewhere. After a fire was reported in China early last year, an investigation led automakers to believe the battery sensor was the cause. Honda decided to redesign the sensor in June of 2016.

To date, Honda has received 3,972 warranty claims relating to this issue in the U.S. Due to the size of the recall, Honda dealerships are being forced to take temporary measures to rectify the situation. As a temporary solution, dealers are able to apply an adhesive to the sensor that will prevent moisture from causing a shortage. The dealers will then be able to replace the sensors at a later date.