The problem
Honda is recalling certain model year 2002 through 2004 cr-v; model year 2003 through 2005 pilot; and model year 2002 and 2003 civic vehicles. In March 2012, Honda filed a defect report to recall certain model year 2002 through 2004 cr-v and certain model year 2003 pilot vehicles. In August 2012, Honda informed the agency that it was including an additional 820,789 vehicles including certain model year 2004 and 2005 pilots and model year 2002 and 2003 civics. The total number of vehicles being recalled is now 1,375,217. Due to tension from the combination switch wiring harness, wear on the surface of the electrical terminal can occur, yielding copper oxide, which increases electrical resistance. Increased electrical resistance May cause the terminal ends to melt within the wiring harness connector.
The risk
If the terminal ends melt within the wiring harness connector, the low beam headlights May become inoperative, reducing driver visibility and increasing the risk of a crash.
The fix
Honda will notify owners, and dealers will repair the low beam terminal harness or replace the lighting switch as necessary, free of charge. The original recall began in April 2012. Owners of vehicles involved in the September 2012 expansion will be notified in September 2012. Owners May contact Honda customer service at 1-800-999-1009.
Recall details
| NHTSA campaign | 12V-136 (12V136000) |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer number | S34, S51 |
| Manufacturer | Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) |
| Component | Exterior lighting › Headlights › Switch |
| Report date | March 30, 2012 |
| Owners notified | April 27, 2012 |
| Vehicles affected | 1,375,217 |
| Initiated by | NHTSA investigation |
Vehicles covered
Owner complaints about the lights
- 2002 Honda Civic headlight problems 54
- 2003 Honda Civic headlight problems 23
- 2002 Honda CR-V headlight problems 61
- 2003 Honda CR-V headlight problems 40
- 2004 Honda CR-V headlight problems 39
- 2003 Honda Pilot headlight problems 32
- 2004 Honda Pilot headlight problems 13
- 2005 Honda Pilot headlight problems 34
Frequently asked questions
Is the recall 12V-136 repair free?
Yes. Honda dealers will fix the problem at no cost: Honda will notify owners, and dealers will repair the low beam terminal harness or replace the lighting switch as necessary, free of charge. The original recall began in April 2012.
How do I know if my car is included?
Not every vehicle of the listed model years is affected — the recall covers 1,375,217 vehicles built in a certain window. Check your 17-character VIN with our VIN recall check or at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Source: U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) — owner complaints through October 20, 2026, recalls and defect investigations; fuel economy from the EPA. Complaints are unverified reports and are not proof of a defect. How we rate model years.