Acura Recall Lawsuit | 2025 Latest Updates

Acura Recall Lawsuit Overview

The Acura recall lawsuits focus on vehicles equipped with potentially defective Non-Azide Driver Air Bag Inflators (NADI) that may absorb moisture, causing dangerous malfunctions during deployment.

The plaintiffs allege that Honda (Acura’s parent company) failed to adequately test these components and promptly address known safety concerns.

According to the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), five Acura models manufactured between 1997 and 2001 are affected by this serious safety issue [1].

The defective inflators can rupture during deployment, potentially sending metal fragments into the vehicle cabin, or alternatively, they may cause airbags to under-inflate, reducing their effectiveness in protecting occupants during crashes.

Latest Acura Recall Lawsuit Updates

• June 25, 2025: Honda has replaced or accounted for over 99% of the defective Takata airbag inflators in its vehicles. However, approximately 8,200 older Honda and Acura vehicles remain unrepaired. These vehicles, primarily from the 2001–2003 model years, are equipped with Takata Alpha driver-side airbag inflators, which have a 50% risk of rupture in a crash, potentially causing severe injuries or fatalities [2].
• March 31, 2025: The NHTSA expanded its investigation into 2 million Honda and Acura vehicles due to engine restart failures. Affected models include the 2015–2025 Acura TLX, 2016–2025 Acura MDX, and 2016–2025 Honda Pilot. The issue involves the Auto Idle Stop (AIS) system, which may prevent engines from restarting. Over 1,000 complaints, including crashes and injuries, have been filed. The NHTSA is assessing the effectiveness of previous repairs and considering a broader recall [3].

FDA Reports and Statistics

While the FDA doesn’t regulate vehicle safety (NHTSA does), important safety statistics regarding these recalls include:

• At least 15 injuries have been reported as a direct result of defective Non-Azide Driver Air Bag Inflators in Acura vehicles.
• Approximately 56,000 Acura vehicles across the five affected models are included in this recall.
• Defective airbags across all vehicle manufacturers have been linked to over 400 injuries and 24 deaths in the United States.
• NHTSA data shows that only 67% of vehicles involved in safety recalls are repaired, leaving millions of potentially dangerous vehicles on the road.

Related Article: Malfunctioned Airbags Recall Lawsuit Update

Acura Recall Injuries & Side Effects

The defective Non-Azide Driver Air Bag Inflators in recalled Acura vehicles can cause serious injuries when they malfunction during deployment.

• Shrapnel Injuries: Metal fragments from ruptured inflators can cause lacerations, puncture wounds, and eye injuries to the face, neck, and upper body.
• Insufficient Protection: Under-inflated airbags may fail to properly protect occupants, resulting in more severe crash injuries including traumatic brain injuries, spinal damage, and broken bones.
• Chemical Burns: Improper deployment can release caustic chemicals from the inflator, causing burns to the skin and respiratory irritation.
• Secondary Trauma: The unexpected force or direction of a malfunctioning airbag deployment can cause additional injuries beyond those sustained in the initial crash.

Do You Qualify for an Acura Recall Lawsuit?

You may qualify for an Acura Recall lawsuit if:

• You own or owned one of the affected Acura models: 1997-1998 Acura 2.2CL, 1998-1999 Acura 2.3CL, 1997-1999 Acura 3.0CL, 2001 Acura 3.2CL, or 2001 Acura MDX.
• You or a passenger experienced injuries due to a malfunctioning airbag in one of these vehicles.
• Your airbag either ruptured during deployment, sending metal fragments into the cabin, or under-inflated, failing to provide adequate protection.
• You sought medical attention for injuries related to the airbag malfunction.
• You can document that your vehicle was subject to the NADI airbag inflator recall.

Evidence Required for an Acura Recall Lawsuit

To strengthen your case, you should collect and preserve:

• Vehicle ownership or lease documentation proving you owned an affected model.
• Medical records detailing injuries sustained in the incident.
• Photographs of injuries and vehicle damage following the airbag deployment.
• Repair records or mechanic statements confirming the airbag malfunction.
• Police or accident reports documenting the incident.
• Any communications with Honda/Acura regarding the recall or your specific incident.

Damages You Can Recover

A successful Acura Recall lawsuit may provide compensation for:

• Medical expenses for treatment of airbag-related injuries
• Lost wages due to time off work during recovery
• Pain and suffering related to your injuries
• Diminished value of your vehicle due to the recall
• Punitive damages in cases where gross negligence can be proven

Acura Recall Information

According to the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), this recall affects:

• 1997-1998 Acura 2.2CL
• 1998-1999 Acura 2.3CL
• 1997-1999 Acura 3.0CL
• 2001 Acura 3.2CL
• 2001 Acura MDX

Related Article: Malfunctioned Airbags Recall Lawsuit Update

These vehicles were equipped with potentially defective Non-Azide Driver Air Bag Inflators (NADI) which may absorb moisture, causing the inflators to rupture or the airbag cushion to under-inflate, NHTSA said.

In the event of a crash necessitating airbag deployment, an inflator rupture may result in metal fragments striking the driver or passengers.

Honda is notifying owners and dealers will replace the driver frontal airbag inflator with an inflator of a different design when the replacement parts become available. This recall began on March 9, 2020.

Statute of Limitations for Acura Recall Lawsuits

The statute of limitations for filing an Acura Recall lawsuit varies by state, typically ranging from 1-6 years from the date of injury or discovery of the defect.

Some states apply the “discovery rule,” meaning the clock starts ticking when you discovered or reasonably should have discovered that your injuries were caused by the defective airbag.

For example:

• California allows 2 years for personal injury claims and 3 years for property damage
• Florida allows 4 years for both personal injury and property damage claims
• New York allows 3 years for both personal injury and property damage claims
• Texas allows 2 years for personal injury claims and 4 years for property damage

Additionally, some states may have special provisions for product liability claims.

Because of these complexities and varying deadlines, it’s crucial to consult with an attorney as soon as possible after experiencing issues with a recalled Acura vehicle’s airbag.

FAQs

1. What Is the Acura Recall Lawsuit About?

The Acura recall lawsuit is about certain Acura vehicles with potentially defective Non-Azide Driver Air Bag Inflators (NADI), which may absorb moisture and rupture, posing severe injury risks.

2. Which Acura Models Are Affected by the Recall?

The Acura models affected by the recall are the 1997-1998 Acura 2.2CL, 1998-1999 Acura 2.3CL, 1997-1999 Acura 3.0CL, 2001 Acura 3.2CL, and 2001 Acura MDX.

3. What Are the Common Complaints in the Acura Recall Lawsuits?

The common complaints in the Acura recall lawsuits include issues with airbag inflators, transmission failures, brake system defects, and other safety-related problems that may pose risks to drivers, passengers, and other road users.

4. Who Can File a Lawsuit Against Acura for Recall-Related Issues?

Owners or lessees of Acura vehicles affected by recalls who have experienced financial losses, injuries, or other damages due to the alleged defects can file a lawsuit against Acura for recall-related issues.

5. What Compensation Can I Seek in an Acura Recall Lawsuit?

Compensation that you can seek in an Acura recall lawsuit may include reimbursement for repair costs, medical expenses, lost wages, diminished vehicle value, and, in some cases, punitive damages for pain and suffering.

6. How do I check if my Acura is included in this recall?

You can verify if your vehicle is affected by entering your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) on the NHTSA website (safercar.gov) or Acura’s recall lookup page. You can also contact your local Acura dealership directly with your VIN for confirmation.

7. What should I do if my Acura’s airbag deploys and causes injury?

Seek immediate medical attention for any injuries, document everything with photos, preserve the vehicle in its post-accident condition if possible, file a police report, and contact an attorney experienced in automotive product liability cases.

See all related product liability lawsuits we’ve covered.

Get a Free Acura Recall Lawsuit Evaluation With Our Lawyers

Time is limited to pursue legal action for injuries related to defective Acura airbags. Depending on your state, you may have as little as 1-2 years from the date of injury to file a claim.

This critical window can close before you realize it, permanently affecting your right to compensation.

Our firm offers:

• Free, confidential consultations to evaluate your potential claim
• No upfront costs or fees to begin your case
• Payment only if we secure compensation for you

If you or a loved one has suffered injuries from a defective airbag in an Acura vehicle, contact the experienced product liability attorneys at Schmidt & Clark, LLP immediately to protect your rights and explore your legal options.

References

1. https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls
2. https://www.caranddriver.com/news/a42759442/honda-acura-stop-drive-takata-airbag/
3. https://www.nhtsa.gov/press-releases/consumer-alert-honda-upgrades-takata-alpha-recall-do-not-drive-warning-targeting