Honda Recalls Over 259,000 Vehicles in U.S. Due to Brake Pedal Sensor Defect

Honda Motor Co. has announced the recall of more than 259,000 vehicles across the United States following the identification of a potentially dangerous brake pedal sensor defect. The recall, confirmed Tuesday by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), involves select 2020-2022 Honda Accord and CR-V models amid concerns that the malfunctioning component may heighten the risk of crashes.

Extensive Recall Targets Popular Honda Models

Honda’s latest recall covers precisely 259,183 vehicles, notably two of the automaker’s best-selling models—the Accord sedan and CR-V SUV. According to the NHTSA recall notice, the issue centers on a faulty brake pedal sensor that can result in a delay or failure for the brake lights to illuminate when the brakes are applied. In some cases, this could also interfere with the car's shift interlock and other critical safety systems, potentially increasing collision risk.

Statement from Honda

“Honda is committed to the safety of our customers,” a spokesperson for American Honda Motor Co. said in a written statement. “We are working closely with the NHTSA to address the brake pedal sensor issue and are notifying affected owners to schedule necessary repairs at no cost.”

Potential Hazard: How the Faulty Sensor Affects Safety

The defective sensor may intermittently fail to detect when the brake pedal is pressed, causing the brake lights to malfunction. The NHTSA’s defect identification report states: "A missing brake light warning could increase the risk of a rear-end collision and may interfere with the operation of other safety features reliant on accurate brake signal input."

Auto safety experts emphasize the importance of proper brake light operation. “Brake lights are a primary communication tool between drivers. When they don't function as intended, drivers behind may not realize when a vehicle is slowing or stopping, which can be disastrous in high-traffic situations,” said Kelly Funkhouser, head of connected and automated vehicles at Consumer Reports.

Timeline and Repair Details

Affected Models

Honda Accord (2020-2022)

Honda CR-V (2020-2022)

What Owners Should Do

Honda will notify registered owners starting in July 2025. Affected vehicles can be brought to authorized Honda dealerships, where technicians will inspect the brake pedal sensor assembly and replace the component if necessary, free of charge. The automaker encourages owners to check their vehicle identification number (VIN) on the official Honda recall website or the NHTSA’s recall lookup tool to determine if their car is included.

For additional questions, customers can contact American Honda’s customer service line at 1-888-234-2138.

NHTSA’s Response and Oversight

The NHTSA has praised Honda’s swift recall action. “Automakers have a duty to promptly report defects and carry out recalls to protect public safety,” a NHTSA spokesperson stated. The agency has not reported any injuries or crashes related to this issue as of publication.

Broader Context: Honda’s Recall History

This latest recall adds to a string of safety-related campaigns from Honda in recent years, ranging from airbag inflators to electrical system faults. According to data from the NHTSA, Honda recalled over 1.5 million vehicles in the U.S. in 2024 for a variety of issues.

Industry analysts note that, while recalls can pose significant reputational and financial risks, prompt and transparent action is key. “Consumers tend to be understanding when companies act quickly and communicate clearly,” said Jeff Schuster, president of global forecasting at LMC Automotive. “Long-term trust depends on how automakers manage these incidents.”

What’s Next: Monitoring for Additional Developments

The NHTSA urges all vehicle owners to remain vigilant and check for open recalls. Auto safety watchdogs recommend immediate action for affected owners, stating that Federal law requires automakers to fix such safety defects free of charge.

Honda has affirmed that there have been no confirmed accidents or injuries related to the sensor issue as of this report, and the company is continuing to monitor the situation closely.

Sources Used in Research

Reuters: Honda recall over 259,000 U.S. vehicles over brake pedal issue

National Highway Traffic Safety Administration official recall notices

Statements from American Honda Motor Co. press office

Consumer Reports automotive safety analysis

LMC Automotive industry reports