A major automaker is recalling more than 635,000 vehicles across three popular models after discovering a software defect that could suddenly disable power steering assistance while driving. Federal regulators say the problem increases the risk of a crash, and at least one injury has already been reported.
Honda Motor Co. is recalling 635,808 Honda and Acura vehicles in the United States, according to documents filed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
The recall involves certain Honda Pilot SUVs, Acura MDX SUVs and Acura TLX sedans manufactured between the 2021 and 2025 model years.
As of October 22, Honda had received 146 warranty claims and one report of an injury associated with the defect. No deaths have been reported.
Which Vehicles Are Being Recalled?
The recall affects three models across multiple production years.
| Vehicle | Model Years | Vehicles Affected |
|---|---|---|
| Honda Pilot SUV | 2023–2025 | 383,110 |
| Acura MDX SUV | 2022–2024 | 177,100 |
| Acura TLX Sedan | 2021–2025 | 75,598 |
| Total | 635,808 |
The recall covers vehicles from both Honda’s mainstream lineup and its luxury Acura division.
Owners should check their vehicle identification number (VIN) to determine whether their specific vehicle is included. Having one of the listed models does not automatically mean the vehicle requires repairs.
What Is Wrong With the Steering System?
The problem involves the electronic power steering system, which helps drivers turn the steering wheel with less physical effort.
According to federal safety documents, incorrectly configured software can cause the system to enter a protective mode under certain driving conditions. When that happens, power steering assistance shuts off and warning lights appear on the dashboard.
Drivers can still steer the vehicle, but turning the steering wheel requires significantly more effort. The sudden change could make the vehicle harder to control, particularly when a driver needs to react quickly to a road hazard.
The defect is linked to software developed by automotive supplier Robert Bosch Automotive Steering LLC.
Investigators determined that an error involving calculations used by the vehicle’s Driver Attention Monitor system could trigger the steering malfunction.
Honda said the problem occurs only under specific operating conditions, including situations when the vehicle is traveling straight.
Honda Investigated the Problem for Nearly Five Years
One of the more concerning aspects of the recall is how long it took to identify the underlying problem.
Honda first received a report involving the steering issue in November 2021. The automaker continued investigating subsequent reports but initially struggled to reproduce the malfunction consistently.
In August 2025, the supplier identified the software failure. Honda successfully reproduced the problem in December 2025 and confirmed additional details about the conditions that triggered it in February 2026.
On October 22, 2026, Honda concluded that the defect presented a vehicle safety risk and moved forward with the recall.
The investigation highlights the growing complexity of modern vehicles, where software problems can affect critical driving functions that were once primarily mechanical.
Repairs Are Free, and Owners Do Not Need to Wait
Honda says the necessary software update is already available at authorized Honda and Acura dealerships.
Dealers will reprogram the electronic power steering control unit with corrected software at no charge to vehicle owners.
Honda expects to mail official recall notification letters beginning December 14, 2026. However, drivers do not need to wait for a letter before checking whether their vehicle is affected or contacting a dealership.
Owners can take the following steps:
- Check the recall status. Visit recalls.honda.com, recalls.acura.com or the NHTSA recall database and enter the vehicle’s 17-character VIN.
- Contact a dealership. If the vehicle is affected, schedule an appointment for the free software update.
- Pay attention to steering warnings. If steering assistance suddenly disappears or a steering warning light activates, maintain control, slow down safely and arrange for the vehicle to be inspected.
- Keep the recall information. The federal recall identification number is 26V721000, and Honda’s campaign numbers are KQB and TQA.
Owners can also contact Honda customer service at 888-234-2138 or the recall assistance number listed in the federal notice, 866-784-1870.
Why the Recall Matters for Honda and Investors
Large vehicle recalls create potential financial and reputational risks for automakers, even when the underlying problem can be resolved through a software update.
Honda must coordinate repairs across hundreds of thousands of vehicles, work with dealerships and address customer concerns about vehicle safety.
Because the remedy involves reprogramming existing software rather than replacing major mechanical components, the repair process may be less expensive than a traditional hardware recall. However, the company’s total costs will depend on repair participation, dealer expenses and any additional claims that emerge.
The recall also reflects a broader challenge facing the automotive industry.
As vehicles become increasingly dependent on software to control steering, braking and other critical functions, manufacturers face greater responsibility for identifying and correcting programming errors.
For Honda investors, the key questions are whether the recall produces substantial additional costs, leads to litigation or raises concerns about the company’s quality controls.
There is currently insufficient evidence to conclude that this recall will have a material impact on Honda’s financial results.
What Happens Next?
Honda’s immediate priority is getting affected vehicles repaired.
Federal regulators will continue monitoring the recall, including the manufacturer’s progress in notifying owners and completing software updates.
Additional warranty claims, consumer complaints or reported injuries could also influence how regulators and investors evaluate the seriousness of the defect.
For vehicle owners, the message is straightforward: Check your VIN now and schedule the free repair if your vehicle is included.
Although Honda says the issue occurs only under specific conditions, the possibility of losing power steering assistance makes the recall an important safety matter.
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