The recall raises a larger industry issue about how cars are calibrated. Some tire brands – O.E. or aftermarket – might not perform as expected.
Honda is recalling 44,000 Fit Sport models because the electronic stability control can cause or at least not prevent oversteer, thereby increasing the risk of spinning out or crashing.
The latest recall was prompted by NHTSA testing, which showed excessive yaw rates both times the tests were conducted. Computer programming for the characteristics of Bridgetown performance tires is inadequate to stop excessive yaw rates on Sport models with Dunlap tires that were fitted to some of the cars.
In the required NHTSA filing made public today, Honda said the electronic stability control system of the affected vehicles might allow excessive yaw rates at high steering angles with certain tires. All 2102 and 2013 Fit Sport models are covered by the safety defect since they do not comply with Federal Vehicle Motor Safety Standard Number 126, “Electronic Stability Control Systems.”
Honda said it is not aware of any related crashes or injuries.
Honda will notify owners and dealers will update the Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) system software, software free of charge as is required by U.S. regulations. The safety recall will begin on 17 May 2013. Owners may contact Honda automobile customer service at 1-800-999-1009 about campaign number is S99. Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 or go to www.safercar.gov.
About Ken Zino
Ken Zino, editor and publisher of AutoInformed, is a versatile auto industry participant with global experience spanning decades in print and broadcast journalism, as well as social media. He has automobile testing, marketing, public relations and communications experience. He is past president of The International Motor Press Assn, the Detroit Press Club, founding member and first President of the Automotive Press Assn. He is a member of APA, IMPA and the Midwest Automotive Press Assn.
He also brings an historical perspective while citing their contemporary relevance of the work of legendary auto writers such as Ken Purdy, Jim Dunne or Jerry Flint, or writers such as Red Smith, Mark Twain, Thomas Jefferson – all to bring perspective to a chaotic automotive universe.
Above all, decades after he first drove a car, Zino still revels in the sound of the exhaust as the throttle is blipped during a downshift and the driver’s rush that occurs when the entry, apex and exit points of a turn are smoothly and swiftly crossed. It’s the beginning of a perfect lap.
AutoInformed has an editorial philosophy that loves transportation machines of all kinds while promoting critical thinking about the future use of cars and trucks.
Zino builds AutoInformed from his background in automotive journalism starting at Hearst Publishing in New York City on Motor and MotorTech Magazines and car testing where he reviewed hundreds of vehicles in his decade-long stint as the Detroit Bureau Chief of Road & Track magazine. Zino has also worked in Europe, and Asia – now the largest automotive market in the world with China at its center.
