Honda Recalls 256k Cars Nationwide Over Potentially Dangerous Software Glitch

Key Highlights

  • Honda is recalling 256,000 Accord Hybrid vehicles due to a potentially dangerous software glitch.
  • The issue affects models from the 2023-2025 model years and could cause loss of power while driving.
  • Owners will have their software reprogrammed for free at Honda dealerships.
  • No reports of injuries or deaths related to this defect, but Honda had received 832 warranty claims as of Nov. 6, 2025.

Honda Issues Nationwide Recall Due to Software Glitch in Accord Hybrids

On November 18, 2025, automotive giant Honda announced a nationwide recall affecting approximately 256,000 of its Accord Hybrid models from the 2023-2025 model years. The recall is prompted by a software glitch that could lead to a loss of power while driving, thereby increasing the risk of crashes or injuries.

Impact and Extent

The affected vehicles include all Accord Hybrid models from the specified time frame. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), improper programming by a supplier led to the Integrated Control Module (ICM) CPU resetting while driving, causing a loss of drive power due to misinterpretation of normal internal communication issues as serious CPU problems.

Additional features added to the ICM also increased electrical load and created more electrical “noise,” which exacerbated these communication disruptions. This faulty software misread this interference as CPU malfunctions, triggering unnecessary system resets that could cause critical functions such as engine power to shut down unexpectedly.

Timeline and Response

Honda Dealerships will reprogram the affected vehicles for free, addressing the issue promptly and ensuring continued safe operation of these models. As of November 6, 2025, Honda had received 832 warranty claims related to this defect but reported no injuries or deaths due to it between December 2022 and October 2025.

Owners are advised to contact their local Honda dealership if they believe their vehicle may be affected. The recall number is TN2, and owners can also check their Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) on NHTSA.gov starting from the date of this announcement.

Industry Context and Implications

This recall underscores the increasing reliance on software in modern vehicles and highlights potential risks associated with inadequate supplier oversight. The incident has sparked concerns within the automotive industry, prompting discussions about supply chain management and quality control measures to prevent similar issues from arising in the future.

Industry experts emphasize the importance of rigorous testing and validation processes before integrating new software into vehicle systems. This incident serves as a cautionary tale for manufacturers across all sectors, reinforcing the need for robust quality assurance practices to protect consumers and maintain brand reputation.

Honda’s response to this issue also demonstrates their commitment to safety and customer satisfaction. By offering free reprogramming, they are addressing the problem swiftly and transparently, which can help mitigate negative perceptions among consumers and stakeholders alike.