In September 2022, a Honda Idle Stop System class action lawsuit was filed against the automaker, alleging that the idle-stop feature present in various Honda and Acura vehicles is defective.
The lawsuit claims that the idle-stop feature found in Honda vehicles presents a considerable safety risk. They assert that the engine’s failure to restart after shutting down poses potential risks, particularly in critical situations which could compromise the safety of drivers and passengers alike.
According to the class action documents, Honda had prior knowledge of the auto stop idle defect as early as January 12, 2017. What is particularly concerning is that Honda chose not to inform its customers about the defect.
Instead, the company only notified its dealerships through “Dealer Messages” regarding the ongoing investigation. A dealer message sent on January 12, 2017, specifically emphasized that it was solely intended for Honda dealership personnel and should be handled accordingly.
Overview of Honda Idle Stop System Problem
According to Honda’s promotional materials, the purpose of the idle-stop feature is to optimize fuel consumption during idle periods. In situations where the vehicle remains stationary for more than two seconds, such as in congested traffic, the engine will automatically shut off, while vital functions like the air conditioning system will continue to operate smoothly. To restart the engine, all that is required is to release the brake.
While intended to improve fuel efficiency, the feature designed to enhance fuel efficiency in certain vehicles has raised significant concerns among owners, alleging that it poses potential dangers. Numerous complaints filed by vehicle owners with the NHTSA have highlighted a critical defect that leaves drivers stranded in their stalled vehicles, exposing them to the risk of oncoming traffic.
Restarting the vehicle after a stall often proves to be a challenging task, typically requiring multiple attempts. Some owners have even reported frustrating delays of up to 15 minutes before successfully restarting their Honda or Acura vehicle.
The need to bring the vehicle to a halt and undergo a prolonged restart process poses a significant safety risk to both the occupants of the vehicle and other road users. As a result of these concerns, many drivers have been exploring options such as disabling Honda idle stop to mitigate the potential dangers associated with the feature.
Which vehicles experience the Honda Idle-Stop issues?
According to the 2022 Honda lawsuit, the following Honda and Acura vehicles may experience idle-stop issues:
- 2016-2020 Honda Pilot
- 2015-2020 Honda Odyssey
- 2015-2020 Acura TLX
- 2015-2020 Acura MDX
Is there a Honda Idle Stop Recall?
Contrary to any idle-stop recall or extended warranties, Honda has allegedly been aware of issues with the idle-stop engine since 2018. The ongoing idle-stop lawsuit claims that Honda possesses knowledge about these problems, as evidenced by their prior communication with dealers in 2018.
Specifically, Honda previously reached out to dealerships regarding idle-stop complaints related to the 2018 Honda Odyssey and 2018 Honda Pilot vehicles. Despite being aware of complaints and possible safety issues pertaining to the Idle Stop feature, Honda has not offered a fix, nor has it issued any recalls pertaining to the idle-stop feature.
In June 2022, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) initiated an idle-stop investigation following over 200 complaints specifically concerning the feature. This investigation encompasses 2016-2020 Honda Pilots equipped with 3.5L engines and nine-speed automatic transmissions. No further details regarding the ongoing investigation have been disclosed at this time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I join a class action lawsuit against Honda?
If you are experiencing idle-stop issues with your Honda vehicle and wish to join a class action lawsuit, you should consult with a legal professional who specializes in this area. They will be able to provide you with guidance based on your specific circumstances and the applicable laws in your jurisdiction.
To find an attorney who can assist you, you can consider reaching out to consumer protection organizations or conducting an online search for law firms specializing in automotive defects.
They can evaluate your case, determine if joining a class action lawsuit is your best option for you, or provide guidance on pursuing an individual legal action against Honda.
At the Lemon Law Experts, we represent consumers on an individual basis rather than on a class action basis against the auto manufacturers if the facts of the specific case qualifies for California Lemon Law protection.
Oftentimes, it is to the consumer’s benefit to opt out of a class action lawsuit in order to pursue individual rights and remedies. If you are unsure what course of action is best, you should consult with a lemon law attorney who can assess the situation and provide a case evaluation.
What are my options if I experience Idle Stop issues in my Honda?
If you are experiencing persistent idle-stop issues with your Honda vehicle and have exhausted other avenues for resolution, pursuing a lemon law case may be a viable option. Lemon laws provide legal protection to consumers who have purchased defective vehicles.
The specific criteria and procedures for lemon law cases vary by jurisdiction, so it is crucial to consult with a qualified attorney who specializes in lemon law in your area.
To pursue a lemon law case, you would typically need to meet certain requirements. These requirements often include having a substantial defect in your vehicle that affects its use, value, or safety, as well as making a reasonable number of unsuccessful repair attempts within a specified timeframe.
Documenting the idle-stop issues you have encountered is crucial for building a strong lemon law case. Keep a detailed record of all the incidents, including dates, descriptions of the issues, and repair attempts made. Retain copies of repair orders, invoices, and any other relevant documentation related to the repairs.
Connect with the Lemon Law Experts Today
If you are currently experiencing idle stop system issues in your Honda vehicle, we strongly advise seeking expert guidance to navigate the complexities of lemon law. Dealing with automotive defects and the associated legalities can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to face it alone.
If you live in California, our dedicated team at the Lemon Law Experts is here to provide the exceptional assistance you need. With our extensive experience and in-depth knowledge in handling cases like yours, we are well-prepared to support you throughout the entire process, ensuring you receive the guidance and representation you deserve.
We take immense pride in our commitment to providing responsive, accessible, and proactive communication with our clients. Your peace of mind and confidence in the progress of your case are of utmost importance to us.
By enlisting our services, you can trust that you will have a passionate advocate fighting for your rights and working diligently to achieve a favorable outcome. Contact the Lemon Law Experts today and let us guide you toward the resolution you deserve.
