VERY common problem with several Honda models over the past 5 years, particularly the Odessy, but also the Pilot, Civic and Fit. The A/C condenser fails, and Honda claims the damage is due to "road debris" and is not covered under waranty. Due to a design defect, overly large openings in grille allow road debris such as stones to pass through, striking and damaging the A/C condenser, which is unprotected. The cost is $650-$1,200 to replace the condenser. American Honda denies any responsibility for the design flaw that causes the problem and directs the customer to file a claim with their insurance company. Many Honda owners have purchased aftermarket grilles or other devices to prevent a repeat of the problem - several are available on eBay.
Many complaints have been filed against Honda with the NHSTA, the BBB, and Attorneys General of several states. At least one law firm is signing up disgruntled Honda owners for a class-action lawsuit (www.honda-lawsuit.com).
Due to the THOUSANDS of complaints, there is no doubt American Honda is aware of the problem. A company with integrity would have issued a voluntary recall and offered a free (or at least, low-cost) solution to the problem. However, "integrity" and "Honda" don't seem to belong in the same sentence. Hopefully, the NHTSA will force a recall, but Honda buyers will continue to be victims until this happens.
Potential Honda buyers should be aware that this problem is likely to occur to them, too, and that Honda will not stand by their product. I like my car, but it'll be my last Honda.
A D V E R T I S E M E N T S
VERY common problem with several Honda models over the past 5 years, particularly the Odessy, but also the Pilot, Civic and Fit. The A/C condenser fails, and Honda claims the damage is due to "road debris" and is not covered under waranty. Due to a design defect, overly large openings in grille allow road debris such as stones to pass through, striking and damaging the A/C condenser, which is unprotected. The cost is $650-$1,200 to replace the condenser. American Honda denies any responsibility for the design flaw that causes the problem and directs the customer to file a claim with their insurance company. Many Honda owners have purchased aftermarket grilles or other devices to prevent a repeat of the problem - several are available on eBay.
Many complaints have been filed against Honda with the NHSTA, the BBB, and Attorneys General of several states. At least one law firm is signing up disgruntled Honda owners for a class-action lawsuit (www.honda-lawsuit.com).
Due to the THOUSANDS of complaints, there is no doubt American Honda is aware of the problem. A company with integrity would have issued a voluntary recall and offered a free (or at least, low-cost) solution to the problem. However, "integrity" and "Honda" don't seem to belong in the same sentence. Hopefully, the NHTSA will force a recall, but Honda buyers will continue to be victims until this happens.
Potential Honda buyers should be aware that this problem is likely to occur to them, too, and that Honda will not stand by their product. I like my car, but it'll be my last Honda.
- Cliff A., Hayden, AL, US