Recall 12V-436: 2007–2011 Honda Element

Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) recall for trailer hitches, reported to NHTSA on Sep 5, 2012, covering about 5,216 vehicles.

NHTSA number
12V-436
Report date
Sep 5, 2012
Vehicles affected
5,216
Owners notified
Sep 20, 2012

The problem

Honda is recalling certain model year 2007 through 2011 Element passenger vehicles equipped with an accessory trailer hitch wiring harness. The wire that supplies power to the trailer turn signal lights was inadvertently switched with the stop lamp wire. As a result the turn signals only illuminate when the brake lamps are illuminated. This does not comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 108, "Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."

The risk

Without trailer turn signal illumination, the driver's intent is not communicated, potentially increasing the risk of a crash.

The fix

Honda will notify owners, and dealers will repair the vehicles free of charge. The safety recall began on September 20, 2012. Owners may contact Honda at 1-800-999-1009.

Notes

Honda's recall campaign number is S53.Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.

Recall details

ManufacturerHonda (American Honda Motor Co.)
ComponentTrailer Hitches
Electrical System › Wiring
Recall started bythe manufacturer
NHTSA campaign number12V436000

Vehicles in this recall

VehicleModel years
Honda Element2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011All years

Not every vehicle of these model years is included. Enter your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls ↗ or ask a dealer.

Frequently asked questions

What is recall 12V-436?

Honda is recalling certain model year 2007 through 2011 Element passenger vehicles equipped with an accessory trailer hitch wiring harness. The wire that supplies power to the trailer turn signal lights was inadvertently switched with the stop lamp wire. As a result the turn signals only illuminate when the brake lamps are illuminated. This does not comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 108, "Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."

How is recall 12V-436 fixed?

Honda will notify owners, and dealers will repair the vehicles free of charge. The safety recall began on September 20, 2012. Owners may contact Honda at 1-800-999-1009.

Is the recall repair free?

Yes. Safety recall repairs are free at authorized dealers. Check whether your vehicle is included with its VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.