Honda recalls 43,000 vehicles in Canada over steering software defect

Honda is recalling nearly 43,000 vehicles in Canada due to a software defect that could cause a sudden increase in steering effort, raising the risk of a crash. The recall covers Acura MDX SUVs from the 2022 to 2024 model years, Acura TLX sedans from 2021 to 2025, and Honda Pilot SUVs from 2023 to 2025. A recall notice, first published in October and updated Friday, warns of a software problem in the electronic power steering control unit. The issue could cause the steering system to enter a failsafe mode, resulting in a sudden loss of power assist.

"A software problem in the electronic power steering (EPS) control unit could cause the EPS system to enter a failsafe mode. If this happens, there could be a sudden increase in steering effort," the recall notice said. Honda said it will notify owners of affected vehicles by mail and is advising them to take their vehicle to a dealership to receive a free software update. The company stated that the fix requires only a re-flash of the software and not the physical replacement of any parts.

The defect stems from a flaw in the code for the Driver Attention Monitor, a system designed to detect drowsy driving. According to a detailed report, the software's road-condition compensation calculation contained an error that could cause it to attempt to divide by zero. When the software encounters this logical impossibility, it is programmed to shut off the main steering assist. The automaker said the fault occurs only when the vehicle is being driven straight, at which point a warning light will appear and the steering will become noticeably heavier.

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Honda has collected 146 warranty claims related to the problem in the United States, including one report of an injury. The company and its parts supplier, Robert Bosch Automotive Steering, spent years investigating the issue because error codes were often cleared by dealership technicians during routine diagnostics, making the defective parts appear "clean." The problem was first reported to Honda in November 2021. In the United States, the recall affects more than 635,000 vehicles.

Owners can check if their specific vehicle is included in the recall by entering their 17-character Vehicle Identification Number on Honda's or Acura's recall website. The VIN can be found on the driver's side door jamb, on the lower corner of the windshield, or on vehicle registration documents. Honda describes the electronic power steering system as providing an enjoyable driving experience and easier maneuverability while also enhancing fuel efficiency. The system varies the amount of steering assist, providing more at low speeds for parking and less at highway speeds.

With files from BNN Bloomberg, CP24 and Driving