If you own a Honda or Acura SUV or truck, it's worth taking a few minutes to see if your vehicle is part of a recently announced safety recall involving rear subframe corrosion.
Honda has recalled more than 880,000 vehicles after discovering that some rear subframes may rust prematurely due to an improperly applied protective coating during manufacturing. Over time, this corrosion can weaken the area where the rear suspension attaches, potentially affecting vehicle handling and increasing the risk of a crash.
Which Vehicles Are Included?
The recall affects certain:
- 2016–2022 Honda Pilot
- 2017–2023 Honda Ridgeline
- 2019–2023 Honda Passport
- 2014–2020 Acura MDX
The recall primarily applies to vehicles that have been operated in states where road salt is commonly used during winter months because salt accelerates corrosion.
What Is the Problem?
According to Honda and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), some rear subframes did not receive adequate paint adhesion during manufacturing. This can allow moisture and road salt to reach the metal, causing corrosion earlier than expected.
If corrosion becomes severe, the mounting points for the rear suspension could weaken or fracture, potentially leading to:
- Poor vehicle handling
- Suspension damage
- Increased tire wear
- Loss of vehicle control in severe cases
Fortunately, Honda estimates that only a small percentage of the affected vehicles will actually develop the defect, but every recalled vehicle should still be inspected.
What Will Honda Do?
Honda dealerships will:
- Inspect the rear subframe
- Install a reinforcement kit when appropriate
- Repair or replace damaged rear subframe components if necessary
All recall repairs are performed free of charge to the vehicle owner.
How Do You Know If Your Vehicle Is Affected?
The easiest way is to search your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) on the NHTSA recall website or contact your local Honda or Acura dealership. If your vehicle is included, schedule the recall inspection as soon as possible.
Not Sure If You Have Rust?
Even if your vehicle isn't included in this recall, rust can affect suspension and frame components over time—especially if you've driven in snowy climates or areas where road salt is used.
During a routine maintenance visit, our ASE-certified technicians at Dickerson Automotive can inspect your suspension, steering, and undercarriage for signs of corrosion or other safety concerns. While manufacturer recall repairs must be completed by a Honda or Acura dealership, we're happy to help identify potential issues and make sure your vehicle is safe to drive.
Schedule Your Vehicle Inspection
If you drive a Honda, Acura, or any vehicle that's been exposed to winter road conditions, don't wait until a small rust problem becomes a costly repair.
Dickerson Automotive proudly serves Spanish Fork and the surrounding Utah County communities with honest inspections, quality repairs, and trusted maintenance to help keep your vehicle safe and reliable.