Honda is issuing a recall of certain recent-model Pilot and Passport SUVs and Ridgeline pickups over a potentially faulty hood latch that could cause the hood to fly open when the vehicle is in motion.
The recall affects over 725,000 vehicles in the United States and 51,325 in Canada. The affected models are: 2016-2019 Pilot, 2019 Passport and 2017-2020 Ridgeline vehicles. Here’s how Transport Canada’s website explains the problem: “On certain vehicles, the hood latch striker could separate from the hood. If this happens, the hood could open while driving.”
The site also notes that owners noticing a loose or vibrating hood should take that as a signal that the latch may be failing.
Honda offers a web page that allows owners of the affected models to check to see if their particular vehicle is part of the recall.
The danger caused by that latch failing is obvious, as the hood rising up would make the driver to lose sight of the road ahead and cause a serious risk of accident and injury.
Honda says it will notify owners of affected vehicles by mail and ask owners to bring their vehicle to a dealer to have the latch striker inspected. Technicians could decide to install a support plate for the striker, or even replace the hood if necessary.