The problem
Honda is recalling certain model year 2003 and 2004 Pilot and Odyssey and 2003 through 2006 Acura MDX passenger vehicles manufactured from November 26, 2001, through August 30, 2006. The interlock lever of the ignition switch may deform, which can allow the interlock function of a vehicle with an automatic transmission to be defeated.
The risk
Removal of the ignition key when the gear selector of a vehicle with an automatic transmission has not been shifted to the park position can allow the vehicle to roll away, increasing the risk of a crash.
The fix
Honda will notify owners and instruct them to take their vehicle to a Honda or Acura dealer. The dealer will install an updated shift interlock lever and, if necessary, replace any necessary part of the ignition switch, free of charge. The recall began on February 22, 2013. Owners may contact Honda at 1-800-999-1009.
Recall details
| NHTSA campaign | 12V-573 (12V573000) |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer number | S73/S74 |
| Manufacturer | Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) |
| Component | Electrical system › Ignition › Switch |
| Report date | December 11, 2012 |
| Owners notified | February 22, 2013 |
| Vehicles affected | 807,161 |
| Initiated by | NHTSA investigation |
Vehicles covered
Owner complaints about the electrical system
- 2003 Acura MDX electrical problems 18
- 2004 Acura MDX electrical problems 21
- 2005 Acura MDX electrical problems 18
- 2006 Acura MDX electrical problems 8
- 2003 Honda Odyssey electrical problems 81
- 2004 Honda Odyssey electrical problems 53
- 2003 Honda Pilot electrical problems 129
- 2004 Honda Pilot electrical problems 60
Frequently asked questions
Is the recall 12V-573 repair free?
Yes. Acura dealers will fix the problem at no cost: Honda will notify owners and instruct them to take their vehicle to a Honda or Acura dealer. The dealer will install an updated shift interlock lever and, if necessary, replace any necessary part of the ignition switch, free of charge.
How do I know if my car is included?
Not every vehicle of the listed model years is affected — the recall covers 807,161 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.