Honda is recalling 1,854 model year 2010 Acura ZDX passenger cars manufactured between November 12, 2009 and March 22, 2010. During the manufacturing process, the dashboard covering material may have not been properly laser scored to allow complete deployment of the front passenger’s SRS airbag. In the event of a crash, the airbag will not deploy properly, increasing the risk of injury. The safety recall is expected to begin on or about April 21, 2010. 10V-145.

Honda’s supplier informed Honda on March 24, 2010 of the fact that the dashboard covers were not properly scored during manufacturing. Then, about two weeks later, Honda determined that this was a safety defect and notified the government by letter dated April 9, 2010. The improperly manufactured dashboards (instrument panels) did not receive laser cuts on the underside of the cover at the passenger side air bag. Without those laser cuts, both the timing of the passenger air bag deployment and its force level are affected. The problem was so serious that Honda issued a “Stop Order” to its dealerships prohibiting from selling any of those vehicles until they are inspected and, if necessary, repaired. Honda then told its dealerships that if they violate this, they will be required to indemnify Honda for any damages it has to pay to someone injured as a result of the failure to inspect and repair.