By Patrick Masterson

December 3, 2021

A massive recall of some familiar Honda nameplates has been issued on account of an unusual problem: the hood striker, a part on the underside of the hood that helps keep the hood sealed shut. Affected vehicles include roughly 725,000 model-year 2019 Passport SUVs, model-year 2016-19 Pilot SUVs and model-year 2017-20 Ridgeline pickup trucks.


At issue is the gap between the closed hood and the upper grille, which may be too large to allow full contact between the hood and the striker, a rubber seal meant to prevent airflow and reduce vibration between the two surfaces. High-speed highway driving with the affected vehicles over time can cause excessive movement of the hood caused by airflow through the gap, which may lead to hood striker damage and, potentially, to the hood itself. Such damage could also lead to an unexpected hood opening while driving, increasing the risk of a crash.

Honda noted that no related crashes or injuries have been reported in relation to this issue.

As a remedy, dealers will reinforce the striker area and inspect the hood for potential related damage; if related damage is found outside the striker area, the hood will be replaced. All repairs will be performed for free. Honda will begin notifying owners in mid-January 2022; those with further questions can call the automaker at 888-234-2138, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s vehicle-safety hotline at 888-327-4236 or visit its website to check your vehicle identification number and learn more.