Honda Issues Global Recall of 646,000 Vehicles Due to Fire Hazard
Honda Motor Corporation (Honda) issued a global recall of roughly 646,000 units of the models Fit/Jazz and City. The announcement came today and and includes 140,000 Honda Fit units in the United States.
According to Honda, the recall was to correct a faulty master power window switch, which could allow water to enter the switch and cause a fire. New York Times reports that three cases of fire due to the defective master switch were reported, including two in the U.S. and one in South Africa.
A statement released by Honda about the recall indicated that:
"Under some severe operating conditions, water, rain, or other liquid may enter the driver's window and reach the master power window switch, resulting in impaired function of the switch.” The statement went on to add that, "An overheating switch may cause smoke, melting or, potentially, fire."
Honda’s recall involves models sold around the world, including North America, South America, South Africa, and Asia. However, a Honda spokesperson indicated that the recall does not include Fit/Jazz and City units sold in Japan. Honda’s Fit is the company’s best-selling car in that country.
This latest recall by Honda comes just days after rival automaker Toyota halted sales and recalled millions of vehicles worldwide due to the threat of unintentional acceleration.
We strongly recommend all Honda Fit/Jazz or City vehicle owners to contact their dealer, or call Honda Automotive Customer Service at 1-800-999-1009.
For more information on the latest Honda recall, please click on one of the following links:
NY Times Article: Honda Recalls Cars, Citing Defect
Wall Street Journal article: Honda Announces Worldwide Recall Of 646,000 Fit Cars
Honda South Africa’s Press Release about the recall:
