Honda has issued a safety recall for certain hood latch assemblies because the latch can fail to secure the hood, potentially allowing it to open unexpectedly while driving. Owners should check their vehicle’s VIN to determine eligibility and contact an authorized dealer to schedule a free repair.
The recall spans multiple Honda and Acura models across various model years. Exact vehicles and VIN ranges are determined by the specific campaign, so the safest step is to look up your VIN on official recall sites and follow the dealer’s instructions if your vehicle is affected. If eligible, dealers will replace the hood latch assembly (and related hardware) at no charge, often with a relatively quick service appointment.
What the recall covers and how it works
To determine if your vehicle is included in the recall, you’ll need to verify whether your VIN is listed for the campaign. The information below explains how to confirm eligibility and what the repair typically entails.
How to check if your vehicle is affected by the recall:
- Look up your vehicle’s VIN on the NHTSA SaferCar.gov recall page and on Honda’s official recall site.
- Enter the VIN to see if there are any open recalls, specifically the hood latch campaign.
- If your VIN is listed, contact an authorized Honda or Acura dealer to schedule service.
- You can also call Honda customer service or NHTSA for assistance with eligibility questions.
Concluding note: The exact models and VIN ranges vary by campaign. A VIN-level check is the reliable way to confirm inclusion, even within a given model year.
What happens during the repair
Owners whose vehicles are confirmed to be affected will be contacted by a dealer with instructions for the repair. The process generally involves inspecting the hood latch mechanism and replacing components as needed to ensure proper latching and hood security.
What the repair typically includes:
- Inspection of the hood latch assembly and related hardware for proper operation and secure latch.
- Replacement of the hood latch assembly if it fails inspection or if advised by the campaign requirements.
- Replacement of associated parts such as the release cable or hood striker if necessary.
- Repair performed at no cost to the owner, with parts and labor covered under the recall.
- Estimated time varies by dealership workload, but many visits are completed within a few hours.
Concluding note: After the repair, technicians usually verify that the hood closes and latches securely and that the hood release functions properly from inside the vehicle and via the exterior latch.
What to do if you think your hood is not secure
If you notice any signs that the hood may not be latched—such as a loose feel, gap or misalignment at the hood edge, or a hood that seems to rise slightly while driving—pull over safely as soon as possible and avoid driving at speed. Do not attempt to drive with a hood that appears unlatched. Contact your Honda or Acura dealer for guidance and a potential recall check.
Staying informed and getting help
For ongoing updates, the best sources are the official NHTSA recall database and Honda’s recall communications. You can sign up for recall alerts and use VIN-based lookups to verify eligibility at any time. If you are unsure about your vehicle’s status, reach out to a certified dealer or Honda customer service for confirmation.
Summary
The Honda hood latch recall is a safety initiative aimed at ensuring the hood remains securely closed during operation. Eligibility depends on the specific recall campaign and VIN, so owners should verify their VIN via official recall portals and contact a dealer for a free inspection and possible replacement. As a precaution, do not drive a vehicle that may have an unlatched hood, and seek prompt dealer assistance if the recall applies to your car.