2012 Honda Pilot, Acura MDX recalled for fuel leak risks

American Honda and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration have announced a recall of the 2012 Honda Pilot and 2012 Acura MDX crossover vehicles over a concern that a component of the fuel tank system could allow gasoline to leak – greatly increasing the chances of a fuel system fire.

The 2012 Honda Pilot and Acura MDX share a platform so it comes as no surprise that this new fuel system recall applies to both vehicles; with a total of 8,709 vehicles affected across the two brands. However, other vehicles which share similar components like the Acura ZDX and the Honda Accord are currently not affected by this recall.

In the 8,709 Honda Pilot and Acura MDX crossovers included in the recent recall, it seems as though the vehicles have been assemble with a faulty vent shut float (VSF) valve in the fuel tank assembly. This valve allows any excessive pressure building up in the fuel tank to safely be released but due to the improper function of the valve in the 2012 Pilot and MDX, this component could actually allow fuel to leak from the fuel tank. The NHTSA statement doesn’t go into much detail as to exactly what the defect is with the valve but a faulty valve like the one causing this recall can often become a major problem in the event of an accident – especially when a rollover is involved. The NHTSA bulletin didn’t make any mention of rollover issues so this could be a case where the defective float valve could just allow fuel to leak under normal circumstances which is clearly a much bigger problem.

This 2012 Honda Pilot and Acura MDX recall is expected to formally begin on or around March 13th. Owners of the affected vehicles will be asked to bring their Honda or Acura crossover back to the dealership where a technician will inspect the vent shut float valve and, if necessary, the fuel tank assembly will be replaced with one fitted with a properly functioning float valve. Owners of these vehicles who would like more information ahead of the formal launch of the recall announcements can call Honda Customer Service at 1-800-999-1009 in reference to recall campaigns S25 and S26. Also, as is the case with any vehicle that could have a fuel leak, it might be a good idea to park the vehicle outside until the dealership has had a chance to make sure that there is no fuel leak present.