The recall affects certain Honda Pilot, Acura MDX and Acura TLX vehicles. A software defect could disable powersteering assistance, and owners can receive a free repair.
Honda is recalling 635,808 vehicles in the United States because a software problem could cause the electric power steering system to stop providing assistance while driving.
The recall covers certain Honda Pilot SUVs, Acura MDX SUVs and Acura TLX sedans manufactured for model years 2021 through 2025, depending on the model.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the defect can make steering more difficult and increase the risk of a crash or injury.
Owners do not need to wait for a recall letter to check whether their vehicle is affected.
Which Honda and Acura Vehicles Are Recalled?
These figures represent potentially affected vehicles, not confirmed incidents of steering failure.
Honda determined the recall population using manufacturing records. Not every vehicle matching the listed model years is necessarily included.
Owners should verify their specific vehicle using its Vehicle Identification Number (VIN).
What Is Wrong With the Steering System?
The problem involves software controlling the electric power steering system.
Under certain driving conditions, a programming error can cause the system to enter a protective mode that disables steering assistance.
If this happens, warning indicators may illuminate on the dashboard.
The vehicle does not necessarily lose all steering capability. However, without power assistance, turning the steering wheel requires greater effort.
That can make controlling the vehicle more difficult, particularly when maneuvering or responding to unexpected road conditions.
Honda’s official recall disclosure explains the software defect and the corrective action.
How Can You Check Whether Your Vehicle Is Recalled?
Owners can check their vehicle using the federal government’s free recall database.
- Visit NHTSA’s official recall lookup.
- Enter your vehicle’s 17-character VIN or license plate number.
- Review any open safety recalls associated with your vehicle.
- If recall 26V721 appears, contact an authorized Honda or Acura dealership about the repair.
The VIN is generally visible through the windshield on the driver’s side dashboard. It also appears on vehicle registration documents.
NHTSA warns that recently announced recalls may not immediately appear for every vehicle in its database. Owners can check again or contact Honda directly if they have questions.
Is the Recall Repair Free?
Yes.
Authorized Honda and Acura dealerships will reprogram the electric power steering control unit with corrected software at no charge.
Honda expects to mail owner notification letters beginning December 14, 2026.
Owners can contact Honda customer service at 1-866-784-1870.
The federal recall number is 26V721. Honda’s manufacturer campaign numbers are KQB and TQA.
Keep these numbers available when contacting a dealership.
What Should You Do if Steering Becomes Difficult?
If the steering wheel suddenly becomes unusually difficult to turn, remain calm, maintain control and avoid abrupt maneuvers.
Reduce speed when safe and move to a safe location away from traffic.
If steering assistance fails or a warning appears, contact your dealership or roadside assistance before continuing to drive.
Do not assume that a warning light or steering problem will correct itself.
The recall documents do not issue a blanket instruction for every affected vehicle to stop driving, but an actual steering malfunction requires immediate attention.
Why Owners Should Check Now
The recall affects hundreds of thousands of vehicles used for commuting, family transportation and everyday travel.
Although the problem may not occur in every vehicle, the potential loss of steering assistance creates a safety concern that owners should address.
Checking a VIN takes only a few minutes and can help determine whether a vehicle requires the free software update.
For affected Honda and Acura owners, the next step is straightforward: verify the recall, contact an authorized dealership and arrange the repair.
