Honda to recall around 1M cars with dangerous air bags

DETROIT—Honda is likely to recall around 1 million older vehicles in the US and Canada because the Takata driver’s airbag inflators that were installed during previous recalls could be dangerous.

Documents posted on Monday by Canadian safety regulators show that Honda is recalling many of its most popular models for a second time. The models are from as far back as 2001 and as recent as 2010.

Canadian documents say about 84,000 vehicles are involved. That number is usually over 10 times higher in the United States.

Affected models include the Honda Accord from 2001 through 2007, the CR-V from 2002 through 2006, the Civic from 2001 through 2005, the Element from 2003 through 2010, the Odyssey from 2002 through 2004, the Pilot from 2003 through 2008 and the Ridgeline from 2006. Also covered are Acura luxury models, including the MDX from 2003 through 2006, the EL from 2001 through 2005, the TL from 2002 and 2003, and the CL from 2003.

Transport Canada, the country’s transportation safety agency, said vehicles covered include those that were under previous recalls and others that had airbags replaced after collisions.

Takata used the chemical, ammonium nitrate, to create a small explosion to inflate the air bags. But the chemical can deteriorate over time due to high humidity and cycles from hot temperatures to cold. It can burn too fast and blow apart a metal canister, hurling shrapnel into drivers and passengers.

At least 23 people have died from the problem worldwide, and hundreds more were injured.

The recalls are part of the largest series of automotive recalls in US history. As many as 70 million will be recalled.

Honda spokesman Chris Martin wouldn’t give details on Monday evening, but said the company is communicating with the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration “and plans to issue a public statement tomorrow.” Messages were left after business hours on Monday seeking comment from NHTSA.