Honda Recalls Over 250,000 Vehicles For Brake Pedal Problem

The issue is rooted in an improperly installed brake pedal pivot pin that could shift out of place. If the pivot pin does move, it could potentially reduce the driver's ability to apply proper force to the pedal, impacting the ability to stop the vehicle and increasing the risk of a crash.

The recall blankets several models, including the 2023–2025 Honda Pilot, 2023–2025 Acura MDX, and 2021–2025 Acura TLX, with the Pilot accounting for the majority of the affected total—184,243 vehicles. According to Honda, approximately 1% of these vehicles are likely to have the defect.

The issue was first raised early last year when Honda received an initial report of abnormal brake pedal movement. A second report followed in December 2024, prompting the automaker to launch an investigation. By February 2025, Honda was inspecting components sourced from its supplier before determining earlier this month that a formal recall was necessary.

The root cause traces back to a production shift from the U.S. to Mexico, during which one of Honda's suppliers increased staffing to meet demand. However, during the ramp-up, workers did not receive sufficient training on the staking process—staking is the process of connecting two components by creating an interference fit between two pieces—a critical step in securing the brake pedal’s pivot pin. The omission left some pins unstaked, allowing for the potential lateral movement, now prompting the recall.

So far, Honda has received three warranty claims related to the defect, but no reports of crashes, injuries, or fatalities. Affected owners will be contacted beginning late July 2025 and asked to bring their vehicles to a dealership for inspection. If necessary, the brake pedal assembly will be replaced at no cost to the customer.

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