The problem
Vehicle description: passenger vehicles (Honda accord sedans manufactured from September 18, 1997 to January 10, 1998; coupes manufactured December 11, December 15, 1997, and January 5, 1998; Acura 2.3cl manufactured October 22, 1997 through January 7, 1998). During manufacturing, the casting die caused an irregularity in the right-side transmission cover. This irregularity can limit the movement of the parking pawl actuation level and prevent adequate engagement of the parking gear pawl. This does not comply with fmvs no. 114, "theft protection."
The risk
This condition can cause the vehicle to roll down an incline when the transmission is locked in "park," increasing the risk of personal injury and/or property damage.
The fix
Dealers will install a collar on the transmission parking pawl to ensure proper movement of the actuation lever.
Recall details
| NHTSA campaign | 98V-018 (98V018000) |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) |
| Component | Power train › Automatic transmission › Park/neutral start interlock switch |
| Report date | February 10, 1998 |
| Owners notified | February 12, 1998 |
| Vehicles affected | 33,966 |
| Initiated by | Manufacturer |
Vehicles covered
Owner complaints about the transmission & drivetrain
Frequently asked questions
Is the recall 98V-018 repair free?
Yes. Acura dealers will fix the problem at no cost: Dealers will install a collar on the transmission parking pawl to ensure proper movement of the actuation lever.
How do I know if my car is included?
Not every vehicle of the listed model years is affected — the recall covers 33,966 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.