This week brings two recalls collision repairers should have on their radar and more future planning intel from Stellantis on the next Chrysler and Dodge models.
Honda recalls 98,892 vehicles over seat weight sensor SRS defect
Honda has recalled 98,892 modelyear 2016–2026 Honda and Acura vehicles under NHTSA campaign 26V332 because a capacitor in the front passenger seat weight sensor may crack and short-circuit. The recall spans 23 Honda and Acura model entries and expands a 2024 recall of more than 750,000 vehicles.
According to the Part 573 report Honda submitted May 21, the defect can cause the front passenger airbags to deploy in a crash despite the presence of an occupant for whom deployment should be suppressed. The warning sign is an illuminated SRS indicator paired with a passenger airbag indicator that stays off.
Honda dealers will replace the seat weight sensor, and owner notification letters are scheduled to begin July 6. Honda reported 228 warranty claims and no injuries.
The seat weight sensor is part of the occupant classification system within the SRS. Honda's remedy replaces the sensor rather than reprogramming it.
Ford issues do-not-drive advisory for Bronco Sport and Maverick over ball joint defect
Ford has issued a do-not-drive advisory for approximately 4,653 model year 2021–2026 Bronco Sport and Maverick vehicles under recall 26S36 because the front lower control arm ball joints may not have been assembled correctly. According to Ford, if a joint fails while the vehicle is moving, the driver could lose steering control.
Ford is providing complimentary towing to dealers, and dealers will inspect the ball joint assembly and repair as necessary at no cost. The recall had not yet appeared in NHTSA's database as of Ford's announcement.
The do-not-drive advisory applies until the ball joint assembly is inspected. The defect is in the front lower control arm, part of the front suspension.
More on the Stellantis 2030 lineup: Chrysler and Dodge take shape
Following Stellantis' FaSTLAne 2030 unveiling last month, additional detail has emerged on how the Chrysler and Dodge lineups will be rebuilt by 2030.
According to WardsAuto, Chrysler will move off its minivan-only lineup and add three compact utility vehicles, with sub-$30,000 entry pricing on part of the range. The first is a midsize crossover called Airflow, built on the new STLA One platform, followed by two compact crossovers, Arrow and Arrow Cross, built on shared European platforms to compete in the $25,000 to $35,000 space.
Dodge will add a new smaller SUV alongside its Charger lineup and a refreshed Durango, plus an entry-level performance crossover badged GLH.
The Chrysler and Dodge models use new platforms and structural materials. As they reach production, shops can expect repair procedures and equipment considerations that differ from the brands' current lineups.
