Honda to Recall 412,000 Vehicles for Brake Problems

VOA News
15 March 2010

Honda Motor Company says it will recall 412,000 vehicles in the United States because of problems with the braking system.

The recall covers about 344,000 Odyssey minivans and 68,000 Element sports utility vehicles from the 2007-2008 model years.

Honda said in a statement that over time, brake pedals can feel "soft" and must be pressed closer to the floor in order to stop the vehicles. Honda spokesman Chris Martin said if the problem is left unrepaired, the brakes could eventually stop working.

Martin says at least three crashes with minor injuries were reported due to the braking system problem. He says the "soft" pedal is caused by air leaking into the system.

Japan's second largest automaker recalled 437,000 vehicles last month due to problems with airbags.

Honda's recall comes at a time of increased U.S. scrutiny over vehicle safety issues after Toyota recalled eight million vehicles due to faulty accelerator and brake systems.

Some information for this report was provided by AFP, AP, Bloomberg and Reuters.