Honda has issued a major recall involving more than 184,000 vehicles due to a brake pedal defect that could reduce braking effectiveness. The affected vehicles include 2023–2025 Honda Pilot SUVs, 2021–2025 Acura TLX sedans, and 2023–2025 Acura MDX SUVs.
The recall was announced after Honda identified an unstaked brake-pedal pivot pin in certain models. If not properly secured during assembly, the pin can loosen, causing the brake pedal to feel abnormal—or worse, reduce the driver’s ability to stop the vehicle safely.
According to Honda’s report filed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) on June 12, 2025:
- 184,253 Honda Pilot units are affected.
- 7332 Acura TLX sedans (2021–2025) are impacted.
- 67,448 Acura MDX SUVs (2023–2025) are included.
Signs of the Problem
Drivers may notice the following warning signs:
- A brake system warning light on the dashboard.
- A spongy or unresponsive brake pedal.
- Brake lights staying on, even when the pedal is not pressed.
What Caused the Defect?
The issue stems from production changes as Honda transitioned manufacturing from a U.S. facility to a plant in Mexico. During the transition, increased staffing at the U.S. plant led to untrained personnel assembling brake components. A critical quality-control system designed to detect the unstaked pins failed to catch the problem, allowing defective parts to enter the supply chain.
What Owners Should Do
Honda will begin notifying affected owners via mail by July 28, 2025. Vehicle owners are advised to visit their nearest Honda or Acura dealership, where technicians will inspect and, if necessary, replace the brake-pedal assembly free of charge.
For more information, drivers can check the NHTSA recall database or contact Honda customer service directly.
Conclusion
This Honda brake pedal recall highlights the importance of quality assurance during manufacturing transitions. If you drive a 2023–2025 Honda Pilot, 2021–2025 Acura TLX, or 2023–2025 Acura MDX, ensure your vehicle is inspected promptly to avoid safety risks.
