Honda Recalls 70,658 U.S. Vehicles Over Brake System Defect

Affected Models & Cause of the Recall

The recall covers these vehicles:

• 2016 Acura ILX
• 2017 Acura ILX
• 2018 Acura ILX
• 2019 Acura ILX
• 2020 Acura ILX

Owners can confirm whether their specific vehicle is included by checking the VIN on Honda’s recall lookup site or the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) database. 

Honda’s internal investigation found that residual plasticizer left in the brake fluid reservoir hose during production can leach into the brake fluid. When contaminated brake fluid reaches the brake master cylinder, it can cause the secondary cup seal to swell and deform. 

In everyday driving, engine heat can make this seal expand further. A swollen seal can let brake fluid bypass the seal inside the master cylinder. That lowers brake-pedal firmness and can increase stopping distances, particularly at low speeds.

Honda has identified the problem with parts supplied by its Tier-1 supplier. The affected master cylinder assembly part number is 46100-TV9-A02. The safety risk isn’t theoretical. Warranty records show 192 warranty claims related to braking issues. Still, Honda says it has not received any reports of crashes or injuries linked to this defect. 

Next Moves for Affected Owners

Honda will begin mailing recall notices to registered owners on February 2, 2026, but there is no need to wait for the letter. The software fix and replacement parts are already planned for dealer use, and owners of affected Acura ILX models can contact their local Acura or Honda dealership to schedule service as soon as possible. The repair involves installing an updated brake master cylinder that prevents the seal contamination issue linked to this recall, and it is provided at no cost.

Drivers should pay attention to any changes in braking performance before their appointment. A soft brake pedal, reduced firmness, or longer stopping distances are signs to seek service immediately. The repair itself is expected to take a short amount of time once the dealer confirms parts availability.

Owners can verify whether their vehicle is included by checking the VIN on the NHTSA recall lookup page or Acura’s recall site. This step ensures that drivers get the correct information and can schedule service without delay.

Recent Honda Recalls

This brake recall follows several safety campaigns Honda issued throughout 2025. Earlier in the year, they recalled more than 259,000 vehicles for a brake pedal pivot pin issue, and later addressed a steering assist problem on thousands of 2025 Acura RDX models. Honda also released multiple recalls involving software glitches that could lead to stalling and separate campaigns tied to rearview camera failures. These came on top of long-running efforts in previous years to resolve airbag and other safety-system defects, showing how the company continues to navigate both hardware and software challenges across its lineup.

For Acura ILX owners, taking this recall seriously matters. Even if your brakes feel normal now, the defect can be subtle and hard to detect in routine driving. Getting the service done before parts run out is the best way to ensure your vehicle stops the way it should. This recall also highlights how even small manufacturing issues in key systems like brakes can lead to regulatory action and free repairs for owners.

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