This week, Honda announced that it was recalling nearly half a million vehicles due to a seat belt latch problem. A manufacturing error results in premature wear and tear in components of the seat belt buckle, which can keep the seat belt from latching. If the seat buckle is unable to latch, the driver or occupant may not be restrained safely in their seat, increasing their risk of serious accident or death in an accident.
If your Honda vehicle is affected by the 2023 recall; it is important to act promptly to ensure your safety and protect your legal rights. Honda has stated that it will replace the front seat belt buckle release buttons or buckle assemblies in affected vehicles for free.
If, however, you have experienced ongoing issues with the seat belt latch in your Honda vehicle that have not been resolved by the manufacturer, it may be necessary to speak to a lemon law attorney about your options.
2023 Honda Seat Belt Buckle Recall Overview
Honda is currently recalling over 500,000 vehicles due to a manufacturing defect that prevents the front seat belt from latching in affected vehicles. The automaker says that it is currently unaware of any injuries or deaths attributed to the defect. Owners will be notified by mail starting April 17.
Which models are affected by a 2023 Honda Seat Belt Recall?
The following recalls were issued for Honda and Acura vehicles:
- Honda Accord Seat Belt Recall: Affecting 2018 and 2019 Accord and Accord Hybrid Models
- Honda CRV Seat Belt Recall: Affecting 2017 and 2018 CRV Models
- Honda Odyssey Seat Belt Recall: Affecting 2018-2020 Odyssey Models
- Honda Insight Seat Belt Recall: Affecting 2019 Insight
- Acura RDX Seat Belt Recall: Affecting 2019 and 2020 RDX Models
What causes the seat belt buckle defect?
In documents released by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), Honda stated that with continuous use, “the buckle channel surface coating may deteriorate over time, and the release button may shrink against the channel at low temperatures, increasing friction. This can result in issues with the seat belt buckle latching.” Premature wear and tear due to a manufacturing defect can damage the seat belt buckle latching enough to where it can no longer latch properly.
Have there been other Honda Seat Belt Recalls?
Yes, in 2021 Honda recalled over 4,000 2021 Accord, Accord Hybrid, CR-V, Ridgeline, 2022 Insight, and CR-V Hybrid vehicles due to a seat belt issue that can cause an unsecured child restraint system in affected vehicles.
How does Honda plan to rectify the seat belt latch issue?
The auto manufacturer announced that it would replace the front seat belt buckle release buttons or buckle assemblies in all vehicles impacted as necessary, completely free of charge.
What steps should I take?
If your car is affected by a Honda Seat Belt Latch recall , you should consider taking the following steps:
- Check the details of the recall: You can find out the details of the recall on the Honda website or by contacting a local Honda dealership. The recall notice should provide information on the specific issue, how it can be fixed, and what you need to do next.
- Schedule an appointment: Contact your local Honda dealership to schedule an appointment for the repair. The dealership will need to order the necessary parts, so it’s best to make the appointment as soon as possible.
- Prepare for the appointment: Make sure to bring all relevant paperwork with you, such as your vehicle registration and proof of insurance. You may also want to ask the dealership how long the repair will take and whether they provide a loaner car or shuttle service.
- Complete the repair: Take your car to the dealership for the repair on the scheduled date. The dealership should fix the issue at no cost to you.
- Follow up: After the repair is complete, ask the dealership for documentation of the repair and keep it for your records. You may also want to check the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration website to make sure there are no further recalls or safety issues with your vehicle.
- Consult with a lemon law attorney: If you have continuous issues with the seatbelt latch in your vehicle, we highly recommend speaking with a lemon law attorney. An insecure seatbelt can be incredibly dangerous in the event of an accident.
Do I need an attorney?
If you have experienced issues with the seat belt latch in your Honda vehicle that have not been resolved by the manufacturer, you may want to consider contacting a lemon law attorney. The seat belt is an important safety feature in a vehicle, and if it is not functioning properly, it can put you and your passengers at risk.
A lemon law attorney can help you determine if your vehicle qualifies under lemon laws and guide you through the legal process if necessary. They can also help you negotiate with the manufacturer for a buyback or replacement of the vehicle, as well as compensation for any damages you may have suffered as a result of seat belt latch defects.
How the Lemon Law Experts can help
If you purchase or leased a Honda in California and are experiencing seat belt issues with your vehicle, the Lemon Law Experts can help. We understand that dealing with a defective vehicle can be frustrating and stressful, and we are here to guide you through the legal process and fight for your rights as a consumer. Our team of skilled attorneys has successfully represented thousands of clients in California and has recovered millions of dollars in compensation for our clients.
We pride ourselves on providing personalized attention to each of our clients and developing a unique strategy for each case we take on. Our firm is also committed to staying up to date with the latest developments in lemon law and consumer protection law, which allows us to provide our clients with the best legal representation possible.
The Lemon Law Experts are a leading lemon law firm in California as a result of our commitment to excellence, extensive experience, and our personalized approach. If you are dealing with a defective vehicle, don’t hesitate to contact us for help. You can reach us at (877)- 885-5366 or by filling out an online form on our site today.
