The National Highway Traffic Safety Association (NHTSA) has issued a series of recalls affecting more than 325,000 vehicles across several leading automotive brands. This recall encompasses models from Toyota, Honda, Lexus, Acura, and Subaru, spanning model years from 2021 to 2025. The issues identified range from potential engine stalling and vehicle instability to faulty rearview cameras and deactivated airbags, all of which pose significant risks to driver safety. Affected car owners are advised to take immediate action by contacting their dealers for necessary repairs or replacements. Each brand has outlined specific procedures for addressing these defects, ensuring that drivers can mitigate the risks associated with these problems.
In response to identified electrical faults, Toyota and Lexus have initiated a recall of approximately 1,716 units from model years 2023 to 2024. The problem lies within an improperly welded electrical connection in the steering column's spiral cable assembly, which could lead to the disconnection and deactivation of the driver's airbag during a collision. To prevent injury, owners will receive notification letters by the end of March, instructing them to visit authorized dealerships where the spiral cable assembly will be inspected and replaced at no cost. Models involved include the 2023-2024 Lexus NX and RX, as well as various Toyota Corolla, Highlander, and Tacoma models.
Honda and Acura have taken steps to address software and programming issues impacting nearly 303,833 vehicles from 2021 to 2025. A major concern is the faulty programming of the fuel injection electronic control unit (FI-ECU), which can cause abrupt changes in throttle opening, potentially leading to engine stalls. Honda will notify affected owners via mail, directing them to authorized dealerships for reprogramming of the FI-ECU with updated software. Additionally, another set of Acura SUVs, specifically the 2025 MDX, has been recalled due to a software glitch causing the center information display to remain black after shifting gears. Dealers will replace the defective display units with improved versions. Both groups of owners may be eligible for refunds if they have already paid for repairs out-of-pocket.
Subaru has also joined the list of manufacturers recalling vehicles, targeting around 20,366 units of the 2025 Forester Limited SUV. Produced between April and October 2024, these vehicles may have incorrectly specified lug seat surfaces on their 18-inch aluminum alloy wheels, compromising vehicle stability. Owners are encouraged to verify their vehicle’s recall status using the Vehicle Coverage Inquiry function on subarunet.com. Once the required parts and tools become available, Subaru retailers will inspect and replace any affected wheels free of charge.
With these comprehensive measures in place, the automotive industry aims to ensure the safety and reliability of the recalled vehicles. Affected owners should promptly follow the provided instructions to have their cars inspected and repaired, thereby reducing the risk of accidents and injuries. Authorities recommend that drivers stay informed about recall notices and maintain regular communication with their dealership to keep their vehicles in optimal condition.