As a consequence, the number of cars being recalled has more than quadrupled, taking the total above 43,414 – including the 9980 cars that were already subject to recall.
Vehicles affected by the fault include Civic, CR-V and Jazz built between 2001 and 2003. Since the original recall notice Honda Australia has learned that Accord, Accord Euro and MDX models are also affected. The fault pertains to the front passenger airbag inflator, which may have been assembled using "improperly manufactured propellant wafers."
According to Honda's information published by the ACCC the inflator may rupture during deployment of the airbag, after a crash. The airbag may deploy "abnormally," adding to the risk of injury for the front-seat passenger.
Honda will inform owners of affected vehicles by mail, advising they contact an authorised dealership to have the airbag inspected and rectified.