Which Honda models are being recalled for brake problems?

Several Honda models have been subject to brake-related recalls in the United States in recent years. As of October 2024, the most notable campaigns include certain 2018–2020 Accord and 2019–2020 Insight vehicles for a potential loss of brake assist and the 2016 Civic for an electric parking brake software issue; additional, smaller VIN-specific campaigns exist. Owners should check their exact vehicle using the VIN on the NHTSA or Honda recall sites to confirm inclusion.

Current and recent brake-related Honda recalls

The following list highlights major U.S. brake-related recalls Honda has issued in recent years. Because recalls are VIN-specific and sometimes limited by production date or region, use this as an overview and verify your vehicle’s status with your VIN.

• 2018–2020 Honda Accord and 2019–2020 Honda Insight: Certain vehicles were recalled due to the potential for an electric vacuum pump to seize, which can reduce or eliminate power brake assist and increase stopping distances. Remedies have included software updates and component replacement as needed.
• 2016 Honda Civic (electric parking brake): Software in the electric parking brake (EPB) control unit could prevent the parking brake from engaging under specific conditions. Dealers reprogrammed the EPB software to resolve the issue.
• VIN-limited campaigns on select models: Honda has also issued narrower, VIN-specific brake-related recalls or service campaigns over the past several years affecting limited batches of models (for example, calibration updates for brake and stability-control components or hardware replacements on specific production runs). These do not necessarily apply broadly to all vehicles of a given model year.

While the above captures the most visible campaigns as of late 2024, recall rosters can change as investigations conclude and new service actions are launched. Always confirm using your VIN for the most accurate, up-to-date result.

How to check if your Honda is included

To know definitively whether your specific Honda is part of a brake-related recall, use your 17-character Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) and the official resources below.

1. Visit the NHTSA recall lookup (https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls) and enter your VIN. This shows all open safety recalls for your vehicle in the U.S.
2. Check Honda’s recall site (https://owners.honda.com/service-maintenance/recalls) with your VIN for Honda’s latest campaign information and remedies.
3. Call your Honda dealer’s service department. Provide your VIN to confirm recall status, parts availability, and schedule any necessary repair.

These steps will provide vehicle-specific clarity, including whether a recall is open, if parts are on hand, and how to arrange a no-cost remedy.

What to do if your vehicle is affected

If your Honda shows an open brake-related recall, act promptly to minimize safety risk and avoid potential delays from parts backorders.

• Book a service appointment with an authorized Honda dealer; recall repairs are performed at no charge.
• Describe any brake symptoms you’ve noticed (hard pedal, longer stopping distance, EPB warnings) when scheduling.
• Follow interim guidance from Honda or your dealer, which may include avoiding certain driving conditions until repairs are completed.
• Keep documentation of the completed recall for your records.

Addressing the recall quickly ensures your brake system operates as designed and preserves your vehicle’s safety and resale value.

Why it matters: risks and symptoms

Brake-related defects can increase crash risk. Be alert to changes in brake feel or warnings and seek service immediately if you suspect a problem.

• Loss or reduction of power brake assist, leading to a harder pedal and longer stopping distances.
• Illuminated brake system or stability-control warning lights.
• Electric parking brake failing to engage or disengage properly.
• Unusual noises, vibration, or pull under braking.

While some symptoms may be intermittent, any brake concern warrants prompt professional inspection—especially if your VIN indicates an open recall.

Summary

In recent years, Honda’s U.S. brake-related recalls have primarily involved certain 2018–2020 Accord and 2019–2020 Insight models (potential loss of brake assist) and the 2016 Civic (electric parking brake software), along with narrower, VIN-specific campaigns affecting other models in limited numbers. Because recall eligibility is VIN-dependent, owners should use the NHTSA or Honda recall lookup tools and coordinate with a dealer for free remedial repairs.

Which Honda models are recalled?

Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Pilot, Accord, Civic sedan, HR-V, Odyssey, 2020 Civic coupe, Fit, 2021-2022 Civic hatchback, 2021 Civic Type R, Insight, 2020-2021 CR-V, CR-V Hybrid, Passport, Ridgeline, Accord Hybrid, 2020 Acura MDX, 2022 Acura MDX, 2020-2022 Acura RDX, and 2020-2021 …

What is the recall on Honda brakes?

Honda is recalling over 250,000 vehicles, including the 2021–2025 Acura TLX, 2023–2025 Acura MDX, and 2023–2025 Honda Pilot, because a brake pedal pivot pin may not have been properly “staked,” allowing it to shift and impair braking performance. Dealers will inspect the brake pedal assembly and replace it free of charge if needed. You can check if your vehicle is included by using the NHTSA recall lookup tool or by contacting a local Honda or Acura dealership. 
Affected Vehicles 

• Acura TLX: 2021–2025 model years
• Acura MDX: 2023–2025 model years
• Honda Pilot: 2023–2025 model years

The Issue

• A brake pedal pivot pin may not have been properly secured (“staked”) during manufacturing. 
• This can cause the brake pedal to shift out of position, making it difficult for the driver to slow or stop the vehicle safely. 
• Drivers may notice symptoms such as an unusual feeling in the brake pedal, a brake malfunction warning light, or brake lights that stay on even when the pedal isn’t pressed. 

The Fix

• Dealerships will inspect the brake pedal assembly and replace it if the issue is found. 
• This repair will be performed free of charge. 

How to Check for Your Vehicle

• Online: Visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) website and use their recall lookup tool to check your vehicle’s VIN, or visit the Honda recall lookup page. 
• Contact a Dealer: You can also contact your local Honda or Acura dealership for more information. 

What Honda and Acura recall 259k vehicles due to faulty brake pedal pins?

The recall is due to a manufacturing defect with the brake pedal pivot pin and includes the 2023-2025 Honda Pilot and Acura MDX; and 2021-2025 Acura TLX sedan. Dealers will inspect and replace the brake pedal assembly on the vehicles as necessary, free of charge.

What is the Honda brake issue?

Honda brake system problems range from low brake fluid and faulty sensors to issues with the electric parking brake (EPB) or hybrid brake field simulator. To diagnose and fix your Honda’s brake problem, first check for dashboard warnings, then visually inspect the brake fluid level, restart the vehicle to clear electrical glitches, and if the issue persists, have the car scanned for error codes to identify the exact fault and get it repaired by a professional. 
Common Causes

• Low Brake Fluid: . Opens in new tabA low brake fluid level, often caused by worn brake pads or a leak, can trigger a “Check Brake System” warning. 
• Faulty Sensors: . Opens in new tabProblems with wheel speed sensors or the brake light switch can lead to brake system warnings and even prevent the car from starting. 
• Electric Parking Brake (EPB) Issues: . Opens in new tabA bad EPB button, a malfunctioning servo motor, or wiring problems can cause a “Electric Parking Brake Problem” message. 
• Hybrid Brake Field Simulator: . Opens in new tabHybrid models may experience a soft brake pedal feel due to a faulty brake field simulator, a component that provides a consistent brake feel. 
• Electrical Glitches & Low 12V Battery: . Opens in new tabElectronic issues, especially with a failing 12V battery, can cause various brake system warnings to appear and other systems to fail. 

This video explains how to diagnose and fix common electric parking brake problems in a Honda: 1mSimple Mechanic AdviceYouTube · Oct 31, 2024
Troubleshooting Steps

1. 1. Check for Dashboard Warnings: Note any specific warning messages or lights on the dashboard. 
2. 2. Inspect Brake Fluid: Locate the brake fluid reservoir under the hood and check if the level is between the “MIN” and “MAX” lines. 
3. 3. Restart the Vehicle: Turn the vehicle off and then restart it to see if the problem clears, as it could be a temporary electrical glitch. 
4. 4. Check for Leaks: If the fluid is low, inspect the brake lines, calipers, and master cylinder for any signs of leaks. 
5. 5. Inspect Sensors & Switches: Check the ABS wheel speed sensors for damage and ensure the brake light switch near the pedal is operating correctly. 
6. 6. Get an OBD-II Scan: Use an OBD-II scanner or have a professional scan the vehicle for specific error codes related to the brake system. 

This video explains the cause of Honda’s electronic parking brake issues and how to fix them: 50sBCauto_YouTube · Nov 16, 2020
When to See a Professional

• If you find a leak in the brake system, as it requires professional attention. 
• If the issue persists after basic troubleshooting. 
• For complex electronic issues like a faulty ABS module or a brake field simulator, which require diagnostic tools and specialized repairs.