A faulty fuel pump strainer cover is to blame for the recently announced recall of 886,815 Honda Odyssey minivans. Honda Motor Company fears that the faulty fuel pump strainer cover may deteriorate and cause a fuel leak, which could potentially put Odyssey owners at risk. Although no injuries or fires have been reported yet, the error in the fuel strainer cover makes it more likely to break down after exposure to chemicals and high temperatures, and could result in a fire. The flaw was discovered during warranty repairs, according to a statement made by a Honda spokesperson.
The possibility of a problem was first brought to the attention of Honda executives during October of 2012, when demand for fuel pump replacement parts skyrocketed. The automaker began to investigate and determined that several chemicals, including some used in car washes, could potentially begin to deteriorate the strainer cover. After much testing, Honda determined that the fuel pump strainer cover was susceptible to weakening from these chemicals. The intention to recall the vehicles was announced on Friday.
Going Through with the Recall
The Honda Odysseys that will be recalled were manufactured between June of 2004 and September of 2010, covering the model years 2005 through 2010. Honda dealers plan to make necessary repairs to affected vehicles for free. Owners will begin receiving recall information in April, but the necessary parts to complete the repairs may not be available until summertime. Honda dealerships will send out a second notice to vehicle owners when the parts are ready.