Honda PH recalling select 2016 - 2019 Pilot models over faulty hood

If you happen to be an owner of a third-generation Honda Pilot sold between 2016 up to 2019, you might have to visit your nearest Honda dealership soon.

Honda Motor Co. Limited Japan recently announced the voluntary recall of several units of the Pilot due to a possible replacement of the panel comp hood. In line with this, Honda Cars Philippines Ind (HCPI) will conduct a recall preventive measure campaign for 137 examples of the SUV sold in the country.

Findings showed that due to an improper hood-to-grille-gap-setting at the time of vehicle manufacturing, the hood latch may experience a higher than expected load under certain conditions. Combined with strong air pressure forced through the gap, the hood will vibrate. Over time, this may cause the area surrounding the hood latch striker to crack and potentially dislodge. This poses a risk of the hood accidentally opening during the drive, which may result in a crash.

Fortunately, there have been no reported crashes or injuries caused by the faulty hood. However, HCPI, along with its 37 authorized dealerships, will proceed with the reinforcement or replacement of the panel comp hood.

This will be free of charge for affected Pilot owners. If the component only needs to be reinforced, it will only take 30 minutes to repair. But if the diagnosis warrants a replacement, the repair will take two days complete with painting.

Owners that wish to check if their vehicle is part of the recall may visit HCPI’s website and log their vehicle identification numbers (VIN) to see if their model is listed. They may also inquire with Honda dealers or through HCPI’s hotline at 1-800-1000-46632 and (02) 8-857-7240. Honda apologizes for the inconvenience and assures that this voluntary recall is a preventive measure to ensure driver and passenger safety.

HCPI may have stopped selling the Pilot in the country, but at least they continue to issue recalls on discontinued vehicles.