Honda is recalling 807,000 vehicles in the United States due to a problem with the ignition interlock that may fail and allow the vehicles to roll away. The affected vehicles include 318,000 2003-2004 Odysseys, 259,000 2003-2004 Pilots and 230,000 2003-2006 Acura MDXs.
"The ignition interlock mechanism can be damaged or worn during use," said Honda in a statement. "If this happens, it may become possible to remove the ignition key when the automatic transmission shift lever is not in Park. If the transmission is not in Park and the parking brake is not set, the vehicle could roll away and a crash could occur."
According to the Japanese carmaker, there have only been a few such incidents, but the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA) says that they have 42 such complaints in this latest recall with 26 rollaway incidents and 16 collisions resulting.
Owners are advised to be absolutely sure their vehicle shift indicator shows in Park and that the parking brake is firmly set before they remove the key and exit the vehicle.
The recall is expected to begin in early February and the affected vehicles will be inspected and repaired free of charge. Owners can contact Honda at 800-999-1009 or Acura at 1-800-382-2238.
In addition to the vehicles being recalled in the United States, 64,000 units are being recalled elsewhere.
