Honda, like all makers, is increasing computerized safety systems in the run up to the autonomous car.
American Honda Motor is recalling 2014-2015 model Acura MDX 2wd and AWD, and 2014 RLX and RLX Hybrid vehicles for sudden braking, in the latest example of bogus or buggy computer programming, a growing automaker safety defect problem.
Honda’s so-called Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS) can incorrectly interpret as obstacles roadside metal fences or guardrails and unexpectedly apply the brakes with full force.
Honda in the U.S. became aware of the problem with the software from Fujistu Ten Corp. of America at the end of November 2014. Earlier that month Honda in Japan determined that failure there was the result of “short-distance combining processing” of the programmed logic of the CMBS system and an “incorrectly recognized target.” Another vehicle accelerating in front of the sudden braking vehicle while simultaneously driving alongside an iron fence caused the safety defect.
As of 7 May 2015, Honda in the U.S. in the required NHTSA filing said it has not received any warranty claims, field reports or injury claims related to this safety defect.
Honda will notify owners, and dealers will update the CMBS software, free of charge as is required by NHTSA regulations. Honda has not yet provided a notification schedule. Owners may contact Acura customer service at 1-800-382-2238. Honda numbers for this recall are JQ4, JQ5 and JQ6.
