Honda recently announced a recall of almost 304,000 Accords and HR-Vs due to an issue with the seat belt buckle component. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, certain 2018 and 2019 model-year Honda Accords and HR-Vs manufactured between July 10, 2018 and October 30, 2019 could be equipped with an improperly positioned seat belt buckle component.
This part can cause the seat belt to become locked in position when someone sits in a seat and unconsciously exerts force while attempting to buckle the seat belt. If this happens, it becomes difficult to even unbuckle the seat belt. This creates a dangerous situation while the person may lack the physical strength or flexibility to free themselves from the seat.
One of the accords affected by the recall was produced in Mexico between April 11 and April 19 of 2019. This model includes the 2019 Honda Accord Coupes, 2.0-Litres, LX-S, EX-L, Touring, and Sport trims. The last four digits of the vehicle identification numbers of these recalled vehicles are BB02, BB03, BB05, BB09, CB02, CB03, CB05, CB09, DB02, DB03, DB05, and DB09.
Honda stated that of the total number of vehicles recalled worldwide, 304,912 are in the U.S. and the dealer will replace the affected seat belt buckle components at no cost. The recall is expected to begin from December 10, 2019. Honda has also asked owners of these vehicles to reach out to their dealers and obtain additional information. Honda will also be sending out notifications to registered vehicle owners containing more detailed instructions.