Recently, we learned from relevant sources that Honda has recalled some 2021 Acura RDX and 2022 Honda CR-V hybrid models in the United States, including 41 Acura RDX models produced on September 28, 2021, and 238 Honda CR-V hybrid models produced from September 28, 2021 to October 1, 2021. The reason for this recall is that a component on the right side of the vehicle's left front drive shaft may have undergone improper heat treatment, and in extreme cases, the front drive shaft may wear out prematurely, causing the vehicle to lose power.
A recall notice issued by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) shows that a component on the right side of the left front drive shaft of these recalled vehicles may have undergone improper heat treatment. This can lead to premature wear and if the front drive shaft fails prematurely, the engine will not be able to provide power.
In late September last year (2021), Honda received the first news about the issue from a supplier. At that time, the front drive shaft ball head assembly was assembled using steel balls that were not adequately heat treated. Repeated tests have shown that the steel ball may be deformed due to the heat generated by the drive shaft. At this time, Honda has not received any on-site reports related to this issue, nor has it received any crash or injury, nor has it received any warranty claims.
Honda plans to contact the owners of the affected vehicles by email around January 24, 2022, and notify them to drive the vehicles to a local dealership where the right or left front-wheel axles will be replaced free of charge.