The CaseyGerry law firm is investigating reports of sudden braking in Honda Passports and Insight models manufactured between 2019 to 2022. At least 46 complaints have been filed, including three resulting in crashes and fires and two resulting in injuries. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) estimates that over 250,000 vehicles may be affected by this defect.
The braking system in the affected models are driver-assist technology designed to prevent collisions by warning and braking automatically if necessary. The system is called the Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS) and is designed to operate in three stages:
- Visual and audio alerts
- Light braking
- Heavy braking
However, the defect causes the automatic breaking to activate inadvertently, increasing the risk of a collision or other harm. Drivers reported that the emergency braking system in certain models of Honda Passport and Passport Insight activated with no visible obstructions or potential dangers. The inadvertent braking defect increases the risk of crashes and harm to driver, passengers and others on the road.
Several of the reports described the incident, stating that the brake warning and alarms would activate randomly and the steering wheel would start shaking. The problem persisted, even after the braking system was recalibrated.
More information on the reports can be found on the NHTS Office of Defects Investigation website.
On March 7, 2024, the NHTS launched a formal preliminary investigation into the defect. This comes two years after a similar investigation into unintended emergency braking in Honda CR-V and Accord models, which affected over 1.7 million vehicles.
On March 11, 2024, Bloomberg News reported on the Honda lawsuit regarding the braking defects in Honda CR-V and Accord models. The article reported that the car manufacturer was successful in dismissing most claims except one, breach of warranty.
Several car manufacturers have been under scrutiny for similar reports following a new regulation that will require all new passenger vehicles and light trucks to be equipped with automatic braking systems within three years.
Since the NHTS investigation is still in preliminary stages, no recall has been issued. Hence, buyers and lessees of the affected models remain uncertain on the best course of action to take.
If you suspect your vehicle may be affected by the braking default, here are some actions you can take:
- Continue to check the NHTSA or the Honda website for recalls. You may have to enter your Vehicle identification Number (VIN) to verify that your vehicle is under recall.
- Schedule an appointment with an Authorized Honda Deals. Please note that if the vehicle is not under recall, there may be a fee associated with your inspection.
- Make sure to keep records of the issue including receipts of repairs and any communication with Honda representatives and dealerships.
- Contact an experienced lawyer to look into the dangers of the defect and fight for your rights.
If you or a loved one has purchased or leased a Honda Passport or Honda Insight manufactured between 2019 and 2022 and have experienced the inadvertent braking system defect, please contact our attorneys to explore your legal options at (619) 238-1811.
CaseyGerry has a strong history of auto defects and continues to represent those who have been affected by unaddressed issues with vehicles that endanger drivers and their loved ones, including a lawsuit filed against Honda for the “Sticky Steering” defect in which drivers experienced a sudden locking of their steering wheels while driving, especially at highway speeds.
