Sierra Sesay
Summary
- Issue: Incorrectly tightened steering components in some 2023 models due to a supplier error.
- Affected vehicles: Around 186 Honda Odysseys and Acura RDXs.
- Risk: Corrosion and potential gear binding, impacting safe operation.
- Solution: Dealers will replace faulty steering racks with new ones free of charge.
- Timeline: Owners will be notified by mail on April 1st, 2024.
Named after Homer’s famous epic, the Odyssey minivan is facing a recall due to a glitch. Some Honda minivans and a limited number of RDXs were manufactured with steering gearbox assemblies that weren’t tightened correctly. Both Honda and its luxury brand Acura estimate that around 186 vehicles may be affected by this issue. The recall aims to rectify the improperly tightened steering components to ensure the safety and reliability of these vehicles on the road.
Minivans facing the recall were put together at Honda Manufacturing of Alabama from August 11, 2023, to October 26, 2023. On the other hand, affected crossovers were manufactured at the East Liberty Auto Plant in Ohio, specifically between September 23, 2023, and September 25, 2023. The electric power steering racks for these models can be identified by part numbers 53600-THR-A072-M1 and 53600-TJB-A212-M1. To find out if your car is potentially covered by the recall, it is advised that you look for these particular part numbers if you own one from these production eras.
The assemblies causing concern, provided by JTEKT Automotive North America, have a potential issue with the fastening of the reducer. If not properly secured, cross-threaded bolts can emerge, creating an entry point for moisture. This can lead to corrosion within the assembly, posing a safety risk. Specifically, the danger lies in gear binding, making it crucial for affected vehicle owners to address this concern promptly to ensure safe operation.
The steering rack glitch occurred when the supplier made changes in the tool used to attach the reducer to the steering box. Instead of a torque wrench, a torque gun was employed. The problem arose due to an improper setting for the rotation angle upper limit, resulting in the bolts being cross-threaded. Documents from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration highlight this tooling shift as the cause behind the assembly issue, emphasizing the importance of using appropriate equipment in the manufacturing process.
In the course of Honda’s investigation, it was found that JTEKT made another critical change by eliminating the manual temporary start step from the fastening procedure. On a positive note, the supplier was forthcoming about this alteration. According to the attached report, JTEKT informed Honda about the issue on November 11, 2023, displaying transparency in addressing the deviation from the standard procedure. This notification allowed Honda to initiate an investigation and take appropriate steps in response to the identified concerns.
Changes were made to the workflow process on September 22 of the previous year, with JTEKT reintroducing the manual temporary start step. Additionally, they reverted to using the torque wrench fastening tool, ensuring the correct upper limit rotation angle setting. Dealers have already received instructions to swap out the affected steering racks with non-defective assemblies. For owners already identified, notifications will be sent via first-class mail on April 1, 2024 – and no, it’s not an April Fools’ joke! This proactive approach highlights the efforts to rectify the issue promptly and keep affected vehicle owners informed.
Choosing between the Odyssey and Acura RDX? Here’s the scoop: The Acura RDX, the pricier option, packs a 2.0-liter turbo engine with 272 horsepower. It’s a bit of a powerhouse, thanks to its Civic Type R lineage. On the other hand, the Odyssey takes a family-first approach. So, it boils down to whether you’re after an upscale performance or a dependable family ride. The choice is yours!
Let’s talk numbers – the Acura RDX kicks off at $44,350 (excluding destination charge), presenting a premium option. On the flip side, the CR-V, a more budget-friendly choice, starts at $29,500. If you’re eyeing the Odyssey, which opts for a V6 engine over a turbocharged one, you can configure it for $38,240.
Interesting tidbit: the Odyssey is one of just four minivans currently on the market. The others are the Toyota Sienna, Kia Carnival, and Chrysler Pacifica. The minivan’s slower popularity can be attributed to the rising dominance of three-row SUVs. It’s a shifting automotive landscape, with choices reflecting both budget considerations and lifestyle preferences.
Let’s check the numbers: In 2023, the Odyssey rolled off the lots at 74,738 units, a bit behind the robust 110,298 units of the Pilot. Shifting gears to Acura, the MDX, a close sibling to the Pilot, made a solid impression with 57,599 deliveries. On the more compact side, the RDX found homes in 39,228 driveways, while the ever-popular CR-V led the pack with a substantial 361,457 deliveries. These stats give us a snapshot of the varying preferences and demands in the automotive market.
Aleen Brown