Honda issued a press release announcing a recall of approximately 344,000 of its Odyssey models and 68,000 of its Element models. These vehicles are said to have issues with their Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) modulator. The press release states that Honda has received customer complaints about the brake pedals feeling “soft,” and getting increasingly softer over time.
According to Honda, some of the VSA modulators were constructed in such a way as to allow air into the device. Over time, air will accumulate, resulting in the “soft brake pedal” or “low brake pedal” condition. Reuters reports that several accidents and at least three minor injuries attributed to the defect have been reported to the Transportation Security Administration (TSA).
The recall covers vehicles from the 2007 and 2008 model years, although Honda has said that not all vehicles covered by the recall were defective. The company is urging all owners of the vehicles indicated in the recall to visit their local Honda dealer and have the problem repaired as soon as notification letters are released towards the end of April.
It is unclear at this juncture how serious the VSA defect can become; however, consumer concern is at an all-time high due to the recent Toyota sudden unintended acceleration accidents and massive recalls. It is likely that Honda will also suffer financial losses due to this recent product defect.
The Los Angeles auto product liability attorneys at Panish Shea & Boyle LLP are currently investigating cases related to Toyota unintended acceleration accidents and have a wealth of experience in dealing with auto product defects and recalls. If you have been injured in an automobile accident involving a recalled Toyota or Honda, please call (877) 800-1700 to speak with a product defect attorney about your potential case.
