NHTSA Complaint #11571523 — 2019 HONDA CIVIC

I received a notice from Honda dated "February 2024." The notice states that "the fuel pump module may have an improperly molded impeller. Over time the impeller can deform and cause the fuel pump to become inoperable . . . an inoperable fuel pump could prevent an engine from starting, cause a vehicle to lose drive power, or stall while driving, increasing the risk of a crash or injury." Honda acknowledges the fact that there COULD be an issue with certain of their vehicles, but later states that "[t]he replacement parts needed to repair your vehicle are not currently available but are expected to become available in the fall of 2024." Knowing that Honda wants me to drive a possibly defective vehicle for at least 6 more months while KNOWINGLY allowing me to do so with the "increas[ed] . . . risk of a crash or injury," is extremely concerning. I contacted American Honda Motor Co., Inc. customer service and the representative informed me that she has "made a case" for me and that, "if anything happens, just bring it to a dealer." She could not provide me adequate answers to my follow-up questions. Specifically, I am concerned that, if it does happen, why bring it to a dealer? Honda has explicitly stated in their recall notice that the "parts needed to repair [my] vehicle are not currently available." Additionally, suppose, as Honda cautions, the "risk of a crash or injury" occurs and I do not have the opportunity to make it to a dealership? I, any passengers, or any other driver on the road, Honda operator or not, could become deceased as a result of an "inoperable fuel pump." I also drive a Kia Stinger and, as your agency might be aware, this issue was front and center with Kia a few months ago. Unfortunately, my Stinger fell victim and thankfully, I was in my driveway when it occurred. I am not comfortable driving this 2019 Honda Civic given this information and my past experience. This behavior and "notice" from Honda is evidence of their negligence.