NHTSA Complaint #11461017 — 2017 HONDA RIDGELINE

When reversing, I've had several instances over the past several years where the backup screen just went to black (Head unit displays black, with the guide marks.) i figured it was a software issue. However, when the back-up camera ceased working I googled the issue with "2017 Honda Ridge-line and backup camera" and found that severed wires at the tailgate left corner hinge area is a common issue. I found the harness broken at the pivot point of tailgate. (Left bottom corner of tailgate)Tailgate wiring exposed in hinge. Plastic cover has split/separated. I am a sixty-three year old female so I'm not using the tailgate/truck bed very much. I took it to the dealership (04/12/22); they told me they have not had any reported instances of this issue and then requested how I broke the harness! They quoted me a price to purchase/replace the harness; however, since this seems to be an issue across 2017 -2019 Ridge-lines with the wiring loom not having enough slack, combined with the 90° bend at the tailgate, allowing the thin metal edge of the tailgate to press directly against the wiring, especially when the tailgate is fully swung open. I believe Honda should replace the harness under a TSB.