Drivers Say Honda’s Turbo Engines Are Failing Early And The Company Knew
One of the plaintiff's had to pair to get their head gasket replaced twice in two years
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by Brad Anderson
Lawsuit claims Honda’s turbo engines suffer head gasket issues leading to cracks.
Affected models include Honda Civic, CR-V, Accord, plus Acura RDX and TLX variants.
Some owners have complained about spectacular engine failures due to the fault.
A recently filed lawsuit in the United States alleges a critical flaw in Honda and Acura’s turbocharged engines, raising concerns for owners of several popular models. According to the filing, certain 1.5-liter and 2.0-liter turbo engines may be prone to overheating and head gasket failure. As with many class actions, the complaint claims Honda has been aware of the problem but failed to inform consumers.
More: Acura Dealer Sues Honda After ZDX Fails At 400 Miles And Turns Into A Brick
The suit was recently filed in California and names six plaintiffs. It asserts that Honda has failed to properly develop turbocharged engines that can withstand high compression and heat, alleging that the head gasket is “susceptible to cracking.” If this happens, engine coolant can enter the cylinder head, degrading it and allowing coolant to leak into the cylinders.
Engine Misfires, Coolant Contamination, and Roadside Breakdowns
Not only could this mean there’s not enough coolant to cool the engine, but the engine itself can start misfiring. It’s also claimed that if coolant mixes with the engine oil, it can dilute and contaminate the oil, causing corrosion and excessive wear. Several owners have reportedly experienced complete engine failure, and some have been stranded on the side of the road after their vehicles suddenly gave out.
The affected models named in the complaint include the 2018–2022 Honda Accord, 2016–2022 Honda Civic, 2017–2022 Honda CR-V, 2021–2022 Acura RDX, and 2019–2022 Acura TLX.
One plaintiff, Tiffany Richardson, describes how the head gasket in her 2018 Honda Accord failed in February 2023. She claims that coolant leaked into the cylinders, and repairs cost her $1,397. Just two months later, the plaintiff says that she faced a second issue when coolant was again found in the first cylinder, leading to an additional $1,216 in repairs.
Growing Complaints and Legal Pushback
The lawsuit also points to dozens of complaints submitted to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) in recent years, many of them detailing similar head gasket failures.
Lawyers are going after the Japanese brand for breach of express and implied warranties, violation of numerous states’ Consumer Protection Acts, and unjust enrichment. They are requesting a jury trial as they seek accountability for what they believe to be a widespread engine defect.
