As a preventive measure, Honda Cars Philippines Inc. (HCPI) is recalling thousands of its units that might have defective airbag inflators.
In a report by The STAR, HCPI is recalling 14,074 units of the Accord, Civic, CR-V, and Jazz vehicle models to replace their airbag inflators which may pose risks to passengers.
According to a letter to Trade Undersecretary Ruth Castelo who heads the consumer protection group, HCPI said that it is recalling the following units as part of its preventive measure campaign:
290 units of the Accord 2003 model;
1,651 units of the Civic 2001 to 2005 models;
225 units of Civic 2006 to 2009 models;
1,652 units of City 2003 to 2008 models;
38 units of City 2009 model;
9,551 units of CR-V 2003 to 2006 models;
145 units of CR-V 2007 to 2009 models;
500 units of Jazz 2002 to 2008 models;
22 units of Jazz 2009 model.
The replacement is free of charge and the service is expected to take an hour.
HCPI said that it has changed its airbag inflator supplier after finding out that the former supplier of the initial replacement for the front passenger airbag inflator had a problem in the manufacturing process.
“It… increased the risk of inflator rupture during airbag deployment, and may cause serious injuries to vehicle occupants,” HCPI said.
Although there have been no reported incidents involving the airbag inflators, HCPI is undertaking the replacement to promote safety, The STAR reported.
The replacement is also being done in line with the recall by Honda Motor Co. Ltd. in Japan.
“We will duly notify the vehicle owners. If the vehicles have been sold or disposed of, we will ask assistance in getting the contact information of the new owners,” HCPI said.
Vehicle owners who wish to have more information on the recall can inquire with Honda dealers or call HCPI’s hotline 1-800-1000-46632 and 857-7240. – With Louella Desiderio/STAR