Window problem causes Honda recall

Honda Cars Philippines Inc. (HCPI) has initiated a recall of 19,143 units of its Jazz, City and CR-V models to replace the power window master switch assembly.

HCPI sales and corporate communications head Voltaire Gonzales told newsmen on Monday the recall did not involve major safety issues, but was only being done to forestall any inconvenience to motorists.

He said car owners who use silicon-based air fresheners and cleaning agents were likely to damage the switch as the silicon enters the assembly and hastens wear.

Silicon particles can accumulate between the power source and the switch, causing carbonization of the resin material in the switch. This can result in smoke or, at worst, partial burning of the window switch cover, Gonzales said.

So far, none of the vehicles that had been brought for repair had such problems, he said.

“The problem manifests itself over time, so car owners won’t immediately encounter this. It won’t cause an explosion, but it could be an inconvenience to the user if it happens,” he said.

Covered by the recall are 2,924 units of the 2005-2007 Jazz, 13,352 units of the 2006-2008 City, and 2,867 units of the 2005-2006 CR-V.

Vehicle owners will not be charged for the parts, including labor and materials. Owners of affected vehicles only have to set an appointment with any of the 28 authorized HCPI dealers and three service centers nationwide. Repairs, excluding waiting time, will take only 30 minutes, Gonzales said.