NHTSA Complaint #11695045 — 2018 HONDA ACCORD

The issue first appeared during my initial test drive before purchase in 2019. The salesman stated it was a low-battery issue from the car sitting on the lot. Since then, the same problem has recurred multiple times. The vehicle displays multiple warning lights — “Electric Powertrain Fault,” Check Engine, EPS, and VSA — with reduced power, jerky acceleration, and temporary loss of throttle response. This poses a safety risk when merging or crossing intersections. Vehicle: 2018 Honda Accord Sport 1.5T, approximately 52,000 miles. Diagnostic codes retrieved include U0401-68 (ECM/Electric Powertrain Communication Failure), U0416-68 (VSA/EPS System Malfunction), and P0302 (Cylinder #2 Misfire). These faults have occurred despite replacement of spark plugs, ignition coils, and fuel injectors (all OEM Honda parts). Dealerships have not been able to permanently correct the issue. The problem appears related to the ECM or communication network between the powertrain and stability systems. The sudden loss of power and unpredictable throttle response during normal driving creates a serious safety hazard.