One of the most "reliable" automotive brands seem to be taking a tumble once again, as Honda is now following Toyota with a large recall for a pretty big issue. The recall affects the 2003 Honda Accord, 2003 Honda Civic, and the 2003-2004 Honda Element.

 

The popular Accord, Element, and Civic face an issue with the ignition switch that could allow the key to be removed without the transmission being shifted into park. This is said to be the third recall over the problem since 2003. This latest recall involves 384,220 vehicles in total.

 

A statement released by Honda said that the recall would involve about 197,000 Accords, 117,000 Civics and 69,000 Elements. The company said it has received several complaints about the ignition interlock and "is aware of a small number of related incidents, including one that resulted in a minor injury."\

 

The latest recall followed an investigation opened by NHTSA in January 2009 after the government received 16 complaints about the failure of the ignition interlock in 2002 and 2003 Accords. Eleven of the complaints alleged that the failure of the interlocks led to roll-away crashes.

 

The recall of the Accord, Civic and Element is expected to begin in late September. Dealers plan to remove an interlock pin and lever within the ignition switch and replace them at no charge.

 

Owners can go to www.recalls.honda.com or contact Honda at (800) 999-1009 and select option 4 for more information.

 

Sources: NHTSA, AP, Honda