Honda is recalling 344,000 Odysseys and 68,000 Elements, model years 2007-2008, for problems with the Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) modulator.
The issue is that when the VSA is in self-check mode, a tiny bit of air can enter the modulator. Over time, enough air will accumulate to make the brake pedal feel soft, or for the pedal to travel more, requiring the driver to apply more pressure to bring the car to a halt.
Honda says that not all recalled cars will be affected, but they would like to check them all to make sure. Owners will receive notification letters beginning at the end of April. Honda advises owners to take their cars in for inspection as soon as they receive the letter.
Press Release
Statement by American Honda Motor Co. Inc. Regarding VSA Modulator Recall
TORRANCE, Calif. – March 16, 2010 – Honda will recall approximately 344,000 Odyssey and 68,000 Element vehicles from the 2007-2008 model years in the U.S. to modify the Vehicle Stability AssistTM (VSA®) modulator. Honda has received customer complaints of brake pedals that feel “soft” or that gradually exhibit a pedal height that gets lower (closer to the floor) before the vehicle stops. In affected vehicles, this condition tends to very slowly increase over time.
Some VSA modulators were assembled in a manner that could allow air intrusion, making it possible for air to enter the modulator during the VSA self-check mode. While only a miniscule amount of air can enter the system during each check, over a period of months or years, the air will accumulate and can result in the “soft brake pedal” or “low brake pedal” condition symptoms associated with this issue. Although not all vehicles being recalled are affected by this issue, we are recalling all possible units to assure all customers that their vehicles will perform correctly.
Honda is announcing this recall to encourage all owners of these vehicles to take their vehicle to an authorized dealer as soon as they receive notification from Honda that their vehicle is affected. Notification to customers will start at the end of April.
Source: Honda