Analysis of Consumer Complaints for Select Honda Models
1.0 Introduction
This document provides a detailed analysis of consumer complaints filed against a range of Honda vehicle and motorcycle models, based on a provided dataset of incident reports. The objective of this report is to synthesize these incidents, identify the commonality and severity of reported issues, and highlight widespread or emerging problems that may indicate systemic quality or safety concerns. By categorizing and examining consumer narratives, we can discern patterns in component failures, manufacturing defects, and potential areas for engineering review.
Get complete access to this detailed incident analysis
Get complete access to this detailed incident analysis
Get complete access to this detailed incident analysis
This document provides a detailed analysis of consumer complaints filed against a range of Honda vehicle and motorcycle models, based on a provided dataset of incident reports. The objective of this report is to synthesize these incidents, identify the commonality and severity of reported issues, and highlight widespread or emerging problems that may indicate systemic quality or safety concerns. By categorizing and examining consumer narratives, we can discern patterns in component failures, manufacturing defects, and potential areas for engineering review.
The analysis will begin with a high-level overview of the most critical issues identified across the dataset before delving into a model-specific breakdown of reported failures.
2.0 High-Impact Issue Summary: "High" & "Medium" Widespread Levels
To effectively prioritize potential quality assurance and safety assessments, this analysis first focuses on issues categorized with a "High" or "Medium" widespread level. These categories represent the most frequently reported and potentially severe problems within the dataset, demanding the most immediate attention. The following table summarizes these high-impact incidents, providing a consolidated view of the most significant concerns across the Honda product line.
Model Issue Category Widespread Level Summary of Reported Failures
Accord ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC) High Multiple reports detail spontaneous illumination of warning lights and sudden engine stalling or loss of power while driving.
Accord ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE High Drivers report various engine failures, including unexpected stalling on highways and oil leaks leading to engine replacement.
Accord INTERIOR LIGHTING High Numerous complaints describe the complete failure of backlights for the radio and climate control display, impairing visibility at night.
Accord SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC High Complaints describe premature brake failure, grinding noises, brakes locking up, and significantly extended stopping distances.
Accord STRUCTURE High Owners report issues with paint fading prematurely, water leaking into the trunk, and problems with moonroof gaskets.
Accord STRUCTURE:FRAME AND MEMBERS High Reports detail significant frame rust, broken engine mounts, and rattling noises originating from the vehicle's frame.
Accord SUSPENSION:FRONT High Drivers describe catastrophic failure of front ball joints and suspension collapse, often accompanied by rattling noises.
Accord TIRES High Complaints range from premature tire wear and slipping on wet surfaces to sudden tire blowouts at highway speeds.
Accord TIRES:PRESSURE MONITORING... High Owners report persistent and faulty Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) warning light illuminations, despite correct tire pressure.
Accord VISIBILITY High A pattern of complaints describes flickering headlights and sudden failure of windshield wipers, particularly during heavy rain.
Accord FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER Medium Consumers report intermittent long cranking before starting, sudden engine shutdowns on the freeway, and vehicle hesitation.
Accord TIRES:SIDEWALL Medium Multiple drivers experienced sudden tire blowouts or discovered dangerous bulges appearing on the tire sidewalls.
Accord VISIBILITY:WINDSHIELD WIPER/WASHER Medium Reports indicate sudden windshield wiper failure during rainstorms, severely compromising driver visibility.
Civic ENGINE High Drivers report significant engine issues, including cracked engine blocks leading to coolant leaks and sudden overheating.
Civic LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES High Complaints describe failures of the hood latch, causing hoods to fly open while driving, and issues with door handles.
Civic SEATS High Owners report that front seats rock back and forth on their tracks and describe headrests that create significant blind spots.
Civic SERVICE BRAKES High A high volume of complaints points to premature brake pad and rotor wear, often requiring replacement at very low mileage.
Civic STRUCTURE:BODY High Reports detail water leaking into the trunk and passenger cabin, as well as widespread issues with paint deterioration.
Civic VISIBILITY/WIPER High Numerous complaints focus on sun visors cracking and falling down, obstructing the driver's view while the vehicle is in motion.
Civic WHEELS High Owners report rear wheel bearing failures, chassis vibrations, and issues with wheel covers falling off.
CMX250 POWER TRAIN:CLUTCH ASSEMBLY High A significant number of complaints detail premature clutch failure and slipping at low mileage, making shifting difficult.
CR-V LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES High Owners report widespread failure of power door lock actuators, preventing doors from locking or unlocking electronically.
CR-V SEAT BELTS High Complaints describe seat belts failing to latch or coming unbuckled during use, accompanied by SRS warning light illumination.
CR-V SERVICE BRAKES High Drivers report incidents of unintended acceleration while parking and premature wear of rear brake pads.
CR-V STRUCTURE:BODY High Reports indicate issues with the hood flying open while driving and mice gaining entry to the cabin through the heating system.
CR-V SUSPENSION High A pattern of complaints describes a severe vehicle pull to the right and suspension vibrations at highway speeds.
CR-V UNKNOWN OR OTHER High Numerous owners report catastrophic failure of the air conditioner compressor, often just outside the warranty period.
CR-V BACK OVER PREVENTION: WARNINGS Medium Drivers report that multiple dashboard warning lights for safety systems illuminate simultaneously and without a clear cause.
CR-V STRUCTURE:FRAME AND MEMBERS Medium Complaints detail significant corrosion on the rear frame, in some cases leading to structural detachment.
Crosstour ELECTRICAL SYSTEM Medium Reports describe a range of electrical failures, including vehicles failing to start, engine stalling, audio system malfunctions, and a fire.
CRF1000 FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM Medium Riders report engine hesitation, sudden power loss at highway speeds, and stalling due to fuel tank contamination.
Element SEAT BELTS High A high volume of complaints describes failures of the seat belt buckle switch, causing the SRS airbag warning light to illuminate.
Element VISIBILITY Medium Owners report a high frequency of windshields cracking spontaneously or from very minor impacts.
Fit STRUCTURE:BODY High Numerous complaints detail water leaking into the vehicle, causing mold growth and flooding in the spare tire compartment.
GL1800 FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM High Riders report a pronounced engine hesitation or stalling when accelerating from a stop, causing a loss of control.
GL1800 POWER TRAIN Medium A pattern of complaints describes transmissions jumping out of gear or failing completely while riding.
HR-V EXTERIOR LIGHTING Medium Owners report water leaking into and accumulating within the tail light assemblies, potentially causing electrical shorts.
Odyssey EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:RADIO/... Medium A pattern of complaints details failures of the factory-installed CD player and DVD entertainment system.
Odyssey TIRES:SIDEWALL Medium Drivers report experiencing cracks, bulges, and blowouts originating from the sidewalls of the factory-equipped tires.
Pilot LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES High Multiple reports describe the failure of power door lock actuators, rendering remote and interior lock buttons useless.
Pilot VISIBILITY/WIPER High Owners report that the rear hatch glass can spontaneously shatter and that power windows frequently fail.
Prologue ELECTRICAL SYSTEM High Numerous drivers of this new model report that both the instrument panel and infotainment screens go completely blank while driving.
Ridgeline ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC) Medium Complaints describe the simultaneous failure of ABS and VSA systems, indicated by multiple warning lights on the dashboard.
Ridgeline SUSPENSION Medium Owners report leaking rear struts and a clunking sound from the front of the vehicle when driving over bumps.
VTX1800 SUSPENSION:REAR Medium A significant number of riders discovered rear wheel flange bearings had failed or disintegrated during routine tire changes.
This summary provides a strategic overview of the most pressing issues. The following sections will provide a more detailed, model-specific examination of these and other reported problems.
3.0 Detailed Analysis by Vehicle Model
This section provides a granular analysis of reported incidents, broken down by individual vehicle models. This model-centric approach is crucial for identifying specific component vulnerabilities, platform-specific defects, and potential manufacturing trends unique to each vehicle.
3.1 Honda Accord
The Honda Accord exhibits a high number of complaints across several critical systems, including powertrain, brakes, and electrical components.
ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE
INTERIOR LIGHTING
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
STRUCTURE
STRUCTURE:FRAME AND MEMBERS
SUSPENSION:FRONT
TIRES
TIRES:PRESSURE MONITORING...
VISIBILITY
FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER
TIRES:SIDEWALL
VISIBILITY:WINDSHIELD WIPER/WASHER
Monitored Issues (Low & Emerging)
In addition to the high-frequency complaints, several issues with "Low" and "Emerging" prevalence warrant monitoring. These include failures of the front seat belt retractors (SEAT BELTS:FRONT:RETRACTOR), which prevent the belts from operating correctly, and reports of whining noises and failures associated with the steering rack and pinion (STEERING:RACK AND PINION).
3.2 Honda Civic
The Honda Civic data shows a concentration of "High" widespread issues related to fundamental engine integrity, body structure, and component quality.
ENGINE
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
SEATS
SERVICE BRAKES
STRUCTURE:BODY
VISIBILITY/WIPER
WHEELS
Monitored Issues (Low & Emerging)
Among issues with lower frequency, reports of fuel pump failures (FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP) leading to engine stalling are notable. Additionally, an emerging issue involves the factory-supplied jack (EQUIPMENT:MECHANICAL...JACK/LIFT), which has reportedly collapsed while a vehicle was being lifted.
3.3 Honda CR-V
Complaints for the Honda CR-V point to significant concerns with suspension, locks, and various component failures, including a high number of air conditioner issues.
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
SEAT BELTS
SERVICE BRAKES
STRUCTURE:BODY
SUSPENSION
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Monitored Issues (Medium & Emerging)
Key issues to monitor include those rated as "Medium," such as corrosion on the rear frame (STRUCTURE:FRAME AND MEMBERS) which has reportedly led to structural detachment. A pattern of malfunctions with BACK OVER PREVENTION: WARNINGS is also present, where numerous dashboard warning lights for various safety systems illuminate at once, seemingly without cause.
3.4 Other Automotive Models (Odyssey, Pilot, etc.)
Honda Pilot The Pilot's most significant reported issues, both rated "High," are with LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES and VISIBILITY/WIPER. Similar to the CR-V, the Pilot suffers from widespread power door lock actuator failures. The visibility complaints include reports of the rear hatch window spontaneously shattering and power window regulators failing, causing windows to fall into the door frame.
Honda Prologue As a newer electric model, the Prologue has a "High" widespread issue category related to its ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. Numerous owners have reported a total loss of both the driver's instrument cluster and the central infotainment screen while driving, leaving them without access to speed, range, or other critical vehicle information.
Honda Element The Element has a "High" prevalence of complaints regarding SEAT BELTS, specifically the failure of the buckle switch, which causes the SRS airbag warning light to remain illuminated. A "Medium" level issue is also noted for VISIBILITY, where owners report a high frequency of windshields cracking spontaneously or from very minor impacts.
Honda Fit The Fit's most prominent issue, rated "High," is with STRUCTURE:BODY. Numerous reports detail significant water leaks into the vehicle, leading to mold growth in the cabin and flooding in the spare tire compartment.
Honda Crosstour The Crosstour has a "Medium" prevalence of complaints regarding its ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. These reports detail a range of serious failures, including vehicles failing to start, starter grinding noises, sudden engine stalling, audio system malfunctions, and at least one report of a fire originating from the dashboard area.
Honda Odyssey The primary monitored issues for the Odyssey are rated "Medium." These include failures of the factory-installed CD player and DVD entertainment system (EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:RADIO/...) and problems with factory-equipped tires, where drivers report experiencing cracks, bulges, and blowouts originating from the tire sidewalls (TIRES:SIDEWALL).
Honda Ridgeline The Ridgeline has two "Medium" rated issue categories. ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC) complaints describe the simultaneous failure of ABS and VSA systems, indicated by multiple dashboard warning lights. SUSPENSION issues include reports of leaking rear struts and a persistent clunking sound from the front of the vehicle.
The analysis will now transition from four-wheeled vehicles to an examination of complaints related to Honda's motorcycle lineup.
4.0 Detailed Analysis by Motorcycle Model
This section shifts the focus to Honda's motorcycle offerings, analyzing consumer complaints for various models. The aim is to identify model-specific or systemic issues related to their unique components and performance characteristics, such as powertrain behavior, fuel delivery, and structural integrity.
4.1 GL1800 (Goldwing) Series
The flagship Goldwing touring motorcycle shows a concentration of high-impact complaints related to its powertrain and fuel system.
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM This category is rated "High" widespread. Riders consistently report a dangerous hesitation or stalling condition. The issue typically occurs when accelerating from a stop or at low speeds, particularly when the engine is not fully warmed up. This sudden loss of power can cause a loss of balance and control, especially during turns.
POWER TRAIN Rated "Medium" widespread, these complaints focus on transmission failures. Riders describe the transmission unexpectedly jumping out of gear (particularly 5th gear) or shifting into a "false neutral" with a loud clunk. In some cases, this has led to total transmission failure.
4.2 Other Motorcycle Models
Across the remaining motorcycle models in the dataset, the most notable pattern involves powertrain and fuel system issues. The CMX250 has a "High" rated issue with POWER TRAIN:CLUTCH ASSEMBLY, where riders report premature clutch failure at very low mileage. The CRF1000 has a "Medium" widespread level of complaints for its FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM, with riders reporting engine stalling, hesitation, and sudden power loss at highway speeds, often linked to contamination within the fuel tank. The VTX1800 shows a "Medium" prevalence of SUSPENSION:REAR issues related to the failure of rear wheel flange bearings. Similarly, "Low" prevalence issues for the VFR800 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM describe intermittent or total loss of power while riding. The majority of complaints for other motorcycle models are categorized as "Unique" or "Low" prevalence, indicating isolated incidents rather than widespread systemic problems.
Having examined individual models, the analysis will now consolidate these findings to identify broader themes.
5.0 Cross-Model Thematic Analysis
A thematic analysis consolidates findings from individual models to identify recurring problem categories across Honda's product portfolio. These cross-model patterns can suggest potential systemic areas for quality review in design, component sourcing, or manufacturing processes.
Recurring Electrical System Issues
A distinct pattern of electrical complaints appears across multiple automotive and motorcycle models. The Honda Accord suffers from "High" rated INTERIOR LIGHTING failures, where dashboard displays for climate and radio controls go dark. The new Honda Prologue EV shows a "High" rate of incidents where both the instrument cluster and infotainment screens completely black out while driving. On the motorcycle side, the VFR800 has a "Low" but persistent pattern of ELECTRICAL SYSTEM failures, with some riders reporting a total loss of power while on the road. This theme suggests a potential vulnerability in electrical component reliability or system integration.
Structural and Component Integrity Concerns
Complaints related to vehicle structure and the premature failure of non-powertrain components are common. The Honda Civic has "High" rated issues with STRUCTURE:BODY (paint deterioration, water leaks) and VISIBILITY/WIPER (cracking sun visors that obstruct vision). The Honda Accord shows similar "High" rated STRUCTURE issues, including paint fading and water leaks. Furthermore, "High" rated LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES problems, specifically the failure of power door lock actuators, are prevalent in both the Honda CR-V and Honda Pilot. This recurrence points to potential opportunities for improving the durability and quality of materials used in body and interior components.
Powertrain and Drivability Anomalies
Anomalies related to engine and transmission performance are a significant theme. The Honda Accord has a "High" widespread issue with ENGINE stalling and sudden power loss. The Honda Civic has a "High" frequency of reports related to catastrophic ENGINE failure, including cracked engine blocks. In the motorcycle line, the CMX250 has a "High" number of complaints for premature POWER TRAIN (clutch) failure, and the GL1800 Goldwing exhibits a "High" prevalence of fuel system issues causing engine hesitation and stalling. These incidents highlight concerns with powertrain reliability and consistent performance across different product lines.
These thematic issues provide a broader context for the individual model failures detailed previously and lead to the report's final conclusions.
6.0 Conclusion
This analysis of consumer complaints reveals several key areas of concern across a range of Honda automotive and motorcycle models. A synthesis of the data highlights both model-specific vulnerabilities and broader, cross-platform thematic issues that warrant further attention.
The most significant widespread issues, marked by their high frequency and potential safety impact, are concentrated in several popular models. These include electronic stability control faults and engine stalling in the Honda Accord; cracked engine blocks and structural integrity problems in the Honda Civic; and suspension-related pulling and power door lock failures in the Honda CR-V. For motorcycles, the GL1800 Goldwing stands out for fuel system issues causing engine hesitation, while the CMX250 shows a high rate of premature clutch failure.
Furthermore, the analysis identified three critical cross-model themes. Recurring complaints related to electrical systems, such as instrument panel blackouts and lighting failures, suggest a potential systemic weakness. Widespread concerns about structural and component integrity, including paint defects, water leaks, and failing door locks, point to issues with material durability. Finally, persistent reports of powertrain and drivability anomalies, ranging from engine stalling to transmission failures, highlight a need to review the reliability of core mechanical systems.
In summary, the analysis of these consumer narratives provides critical data points for assessing product quality. The patterns identified in this report offer a clear basis for prioritizing further investigation and identifying areas for potential engineering and manufacturing review to enhance vehicle safety and reliability.