Honda set to recall Fit over fire hazard

Honda is voluntarily recalling 646,000 compact cars worldwide- the Fit or Jazz models specifically- due to a window switch defect that could lead to fire in “severe” weather conditions.

Honda released a statement describing the defect:

“Under some severe operating conditions, water, rain, or other liquid may enter the driver’s window and reach the master power window switch, resulting in impaired function of the switch,” the Japanese car maker said in a statement. “If the master power window switch is damaged as a result of the liquid intrusion, it may result in failure of the switch and overheating.

“An overheating switch may cause smoke, melting or, potentially, fire,” it added.

171,372 units of the car are being recalled in the UK, where the model is known as the Honda Jazz. 229,000 units are being recalled in Latin America, and 141,140 are affected in the US. The Honda recall is the second major car manufacturer defect in the news this week, following Toyota halting the sale of popular models in the US due to a tendency for accelerator pedals to stick.

[WSJ]