The government, through The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has opened a probe into 1.4 million Honda and Acura vehicles over engine failures. The probe focuses on connecting rod bearing issues in the 3.5-liter V6 engine. The defect can cause engine failure, leading to an increased risk of crashes or even fires.
Although the investigation entails a different issue, it follows a 2023 recall.
Why the NHTSA Launched the Probe
The probe was opened on August 20, 2025, following 414 reports of connecting rod bearing failures. These failures can cause engines to stall, or stop, posing serious safety hazards to drivers and other road users. The probe addresses a separate issue from a 2023 recall of 249,000 vehicles due to a crankshaft manufacturing defect. NHTSA confirmed that the two issues are not related. Besides the 414 reports, four crashes prompted the NHTSA to investigate the issues and their severity.
Full List of Affected Honda and Acura Models
A total of 1,410,806 vehicles with a 3.5-liter V6 engine are affected. Here is a list of all affected models and years:
- 2016–2020 Acura MDX.
- 2018–2020 Acura TLX.
- 2016–2020 Honda Pilot.
- 2017–2019 Honda Ridgeline.
- 2018–2020 Honda Odyssey.
These models include popular SUVs, minivans, and trucks.
Why Connecting Rod Bearing Failures Are So Dangerous
As mentioned earlier, four crashes or fires were reported to the NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation (ODI). This indicates that the connecting rod bearing failure is a dangerous issue. Connecting rod bearings support, guide, and connect the connecting rods to the crankshaft as they rotate against each other.
When bearings fail, drivers may hear a rapping noise, and this can cause the engine to stall, leading to a sudden loss of power. This sudden power loss can cause crashes or fires, especially when a speeding vehicle stalls. The NHTSA also notes that the failures can prevent engines from starting or cause them to function improperly.
What Drivers Need to Know About the Investigation
Drivers should note that the probe is a preliminary evaluation, not a recall, and the aim is to find out if a recall is necessary depending on the severity of the issue. Although a 2023 recall solved a crankshaft defect, the current failure indicates a bigger problem. Besides the 414 reports made to the NHTSA, Honda has received 2,598 manufacturer reports. These complaints show that the issue is serious.
Key Actions Owners Should Take Immediately
Those owning the affected vehicles are advised to check their vehicle’s VIN on the NHTSA website to confirm if it’s part of the probe. Since the investigation may take months, causing delays in resolving the issue, drivers are advised to monitor for unusual engine noises and performance issues. If they detect these signs, they should report to Honda or NHTSA.
You can contact Honda customer service at 1-888-234-2138 for updates. Once the investigations are over and a recall is issued, all repairs will be free. In the meantime, drive with utmost caution and stay up-to-date with NHTSA via their website. You can also call them at 1-888-327-4236.
Honda’s Response and Past Recalls
While a recall has not been issued yet, Honda is proactively cooperating with the NHTSA in the ongoing probe. Past recalls include the 2023 recall, which fixed crankshaft issues in 249,000 vehicles, with 1,450 warranty claims but no reported injuries. The current probe is another problem involving the 3.5-liter V6 engine.
Conclusion
The previous recalls and the ongoing investigations indicate Honda’s commitment to safety. The probe into 1.4 million Honda and Acura vehicles due to engine failures and the 400 reports confirm the seriousness of the issue. Owners of the affected vehicles are urged to stay vigilant and patient as the probe continues.