Honda & Acura Recall: Dangerous Brake-Pedal Defect

Earlier this June, Honda announced a major safety recall affecting more than 259,000 vehicles across the U.S. The recall addresses a potential brake‑pedal pivot pin defect that could compromise braking effectiveness—posing serious safety risks to drivers and passengers.

What’s the Issue?

According to reports, several key models are affected:

• 2021–2025 Acura TLX (sedans)

• 2023–2025 Acura MDX (SUVs)

• 2023–2025 Honda Pilot (SUVs) 

The problem lies in a manufacturing fault at a now-closed U.S. supplier plant. During assembly, the brake pedal pivot pin wasn’t properly staked—meaning it wasn’t secured correctly. This can cause:

• Pedal shifting laterally under pressure

• Brake-light malfunction (lights staying on without pressing pedal)

• Unpredictable brake warning lights on the dashboard

These defects can reduce your ability to brake safely—significantly raising the risk of a crash .

Scope & Timeline

Here’s a quick summary:

Why It Matters

Here are the main concerns:

• Safety: A misaligned pedal can prevent timely braking—heightening accident risk.

• Warning signs: Drivers may notice a soft pedal, constant brake light, or dashboard warning.

• Limited reports so far: Three warranty claims have been filed—with no reported injuries or deaths .

• Precision needed: Even if under 1% of vehicles are affected, the stakes are high when it comes to brake failure.

What Owners Should Do

At the Dealership:

• No cost inspection or a free brake pedal assembly replacement if needed .

• Any prior out-of-pocket repairs for the same issue may be eligible for reimbursement .

For Drivers:

• Watch for abnormal pedal movement or unexpected brake light activation.

• Check your vehicle against the NHTSA or Honda recall lookup tool.

• As soon as notification arrives—or before—contact your dealer to schedule the free service.

In a Nutshell: Owners Should Know

• Affected drivers will receive mail notifications starting July 28.

• Immediate dealership inspection is recommended—even before receiving a letter.

• If your vehicle feels “off” when braking, don’t wait—this is safety-critical.

Four Key Takeaways 

• Brake-pedal pivot pin defect could make braking unpredictable.

• Impacts Acura TLX, MDX, and Honda Pilot model years 2021–2025.

• About 259,000 vehicles in the U.S. are affected.

• Inspections and repairs are free and reimbursable for past fixes.

How Honda Responded

Honda took these steps:

1. Opened a quality investigation in April 2024 after initial field reports.

2. Discovered the issue, traced it to a U.S. supplier plant, and closed the supplier.

3. Moved production to Mexico and added camera-sensor validation for pin staking .

4. Issued the safety recall on June 12 and informed dealers by June 13.

5. Mailing owner notifications from July 28—allowing time for logistics and parts .

Honda has acknowledged the serious nature of the defect and is actively working to ensure all affected vehicles receive prompt attention.

Conclusion

The June 2025 recall by Honda and Acura highlights the critical importance of seemingly small components like the brake‑pedal pivot pin. Though the defect affects a relatively small number of units (about 1%), the potential consequences—especially involving braking—demand urgent attention.