A CVT is supposed to have advantages over a typical automatic transmission, like lower emissions and greater fuel efficiency. They can also provide a smoother ride than other transmissions. Like any vehicle component, things go wrong from time to time.
There have been a few issues related to Honda CVT transmission recalls.
Problems with the Honda CVT include:
- CVT recall due to pulley damage
- Recall due to parking brake not engaging
- Class action suit related to a parking brake issue
If you own a Honda Civic with a CVT transmission, it’s important to understand these recalls. We’ll explore the recalls and the class action suit, as well as what you can do if you are a concerned Civic owner.
CVT Recall Due to Pulley Damage
NHTSA Recall ID: 15V574000
The 2014 and 2015 Honda Civic was recalled due to a problem with the transmission software. The recall began in October 2015, and it affected 143,676 vehicles. The software malfunction caused pressure on the pulley in the CVT, which can cause the drive shaft pulley breaking.
If the pulley breaks, it can cause the vehicle to stop accelerating or the front wheels to lock up completely. These situations greatly increase the risk of crashing the vehicle due to loss of control.
Owners of Civics involved in this Honda CVT transmission recall can contact their Honda dealership to have the transmission software upgraded. You can check the NHTSA website, or call the NHTSA at 1-888-327-4236, or Honda customer service at (800) 999-1009.
Parking Brake Recall
NHTSA Recall ID: 16V725000
This recall is for the 2016 Honda Civic. Honda states that the parking brake might not be applied when it’s used immediately after turning off the ignition.
This can cause the vehicle to roll when it is believed to be in park. This has led to accidents, which brought about a class action suit against Honda.
If you own a 2016 Honda Civic, you can check for a recall at the NHTSA website, or call NHTSA at 1-888-327-4236. You can also reach out to Honda customer service by calling (800) 999-1009.
CVT Lawsuit
The lawsuit filed against Honda claims that the 2016-2018 Honda Civic CVT transmission created the illusion the vehicle was in park when it wasn’t. It also states that the parking brake should be automatically engaged when the vehicle is turned off or the driver’s door is opened.
They say that the 2016 recall did not fix the rollaway danger. They also state that the recall was only for the 2016 Civic, but there were complaints from 2017 and 2018 Civic owners about the same problem.
They believe that there were ways Honda could have created a better transmission or remedied the problem. They also believe that Honda should have made owners more aware of the potential problems. The last known filing for the lawsuit was a change of venue in Dec. 2019.
If You Have a Honda with a CVT
If you own a Honda with a CVT, you can do a recall search by VIN or make and model on the NHTSA website. You can also learn about service bulletins and view customer complaints. You can call the NHTSA at 1-888-327-4236, or Honda customer service at (800) 999-1009. If you have a Honda with a CVT transmission, you should be aware of the parking brake issue.
It’s important to stay in contact with Honda or your local dealership in case a recall is issued, particularly if you have purchased the vehicle used. If the manufacturer doesn’t know where to send the recall notice, you may not find out about it.
