The government is investigating the 3.5-liter V6 engine used in the Acura MDX and TLX, as well as the Honda Pilot, Ridgeline, and Odyssey.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has launched an investigation into the 3.5-liter V6 engine found in various Acura and Honda models. This action follows 173 reports of failing connecting rod bearings.
The affected vehicles include the 2016-2020 Acura MDX and 2018-2020 TLX. For Honda, reported issues involve the 2016-2020 Pilot, 2017-2019 Ridgeline, and 2018-2019 Odyssey.
The incidents led to at least one crash or fire, and the government noted there had already been a recall aimed at addressing this type of failure in certain production ranges of these vehicles. Additionally, all 173 reports “display failures that have characteristics consistent with those addressed” in the previous recall but were not included in it.
The recall in question, 23V-751, affected 248,999 vehicles, including the 2015-2020 TLX, 2016-2020 MDX, 2016 Pilot, 2018-2019 Pilot, 2018-2019 Odyssey, 2017 Ridgeline, and 2019 Ridgeline. These models were recalled due to a manufacturing defect in the engine crankshaft, which could cause the connecting rod bearing to wear prematurely and seize.
The investigation revealed that an incorrect equipment setting during manufacturing led to improper grinding of the crank pin, giving it a convex or crowned shape. The automaker identified this issue in 2020 but issued a recall three years later after receiving 1,450 warranty claims related to it.
To address the issue, dealers would inspect and, if needed, repair or replace the engine. The recall population for 23V-751 was identified using manufacturing records, but it appears a few vehicles might have been overlooked.
As a result, the investigation will assess the severity of the defect in vehicles outside the previous recall and review the recall’s scope. Depending on the findings, additional vehicles could also be recalled.
