NHTSA Complaint #11613495 — 2020 HONDA PILOT

On August 12th, 2024, we were driving North on New Jersey Turnpike at 65mph surrounded by traffic when the vehicle suddenly and unexpectedly stalled (no dashboard warning lights or system messages prior, nor any signs while driving prior). The surrounding cars were unaware of this mechanical failure and thus it created an extremely dangerous situation for all on the highway. Fortunately, I was able to navigate safely to the side of the highway without incident. Having towed it to the nearest Honda dealer, they diagnosed the root cause to be seized timing belt idler pulleys, causing the engine to lose timing and stall. This failure also resulted in damage to the cylinder heads, valves and associated components. While the dealer has repaired all of this damage under warranty, they have not adequately justified how or why these components failed extremely prematurely (4 year old vehicle with 35k miles). Additionally, Honda has not provided reimbursement for the resulting expenses incurred - hotel, rental car, towing, etc.