Honda VTC Actuator Lawsuit: Allegations of Engine Damage and Safety Concerns
A class action lawsuit has been filed against Honda Motor Co., alleging that a defective valve timing control (VTC) actuator in certain Honda vehicles can cause engine damage and safety hazards. The lawsuit claims that the automaker knew about the defect but failed to adequately warn consumers or take corrective action.
Affected Vehicles
The lawsuit covers the following Honda vehicles equipped with the 14310-R44-A01 VTC actuator:
- 2013-2018 Honda Accord
- 2013-2018 Honda CR-V
- 2016-2018 Honda Civic
- 2015-2018 Honda Pilot
Allegations
The lawsuit alleges that the defective VTC actuator can cause a variety of problems, including:
- Engine stalling
- Loss of power
- Illumination of the malfunction indicator light (MIL)
- Increased emissions
- Damage to the engine timing chain
- Complete engine failure
The lawsuit also claims that the defective VTC actuator can cause the engine to overheat, which can lead to a fire hazard.
Honda’s Response
Honda has denied the allegations in the lawsuit and has stated that it stands by the safety of its vehicles. The company has also said that it is “cooperating fully” with the investigation into the VTC actuator issue.
Current Status of the Lawsuit
The lawsuit is currently in the discovery phase, which means that the parties are exchanging evidence and taking depositions from witnesses. It is unclear when the case will go to trial.
Potential Impact
If the plaintiffs are successful in their lawsuit, Honda could be forced to recall millions of vehicles and pay billions of dollars in damages to affected consumers. The lawsuit could also have a significant impact on Honda’s reputation for safety and reliability.
Advice for Honda Vehicle Owners
If you own one of the Honda vehicles affected by the VTC actuator lawsuit, you should be aware of the potential problems and take steps to protect yourself. You should:
- Monitor your vehicle for any signs of a problem, such as engine stalling, loss of power, or illumination of the MIL.
- Have your vehicle inspected by a qualified mechanic to check for a defective VTC actuator.
- Contact Honda if you have any concerns about your vehicle.
You may also want to consider joining the class action lawsuit if you have experienced problems with your vehicle.
