Honda Clarity Fuel Pump Recall: What Owners Need to Know & Action Steps

Yes, there is an active fuel pump recall affecting certain Honda Clarity Plug-in Hybrid and Hydrogen Fuel Cell vehicles. This significant safety recall relates to defective fuel pumps that can fail without warning, potentially causing the vehicle to stall while driving, lose power, or fail to start, significantly increasing the risk of a crash or occupants being stranded. Honda and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) urge owners of affected Honda Clarity models (specifically model years 2017, 2018, and 2019) to immediately check their Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) on the official Honda recalls website or the NHTSA recalls site to confirm if their vehicle is involved and to schedule a free repair at an authorized Honda dealership as soon as possible. Do not delay; this repair is critical for safety.

Understanding the Recall: The Defective Fuel Pump

At the heart of this recall is a component inside the fuel pump known as the impeller. The impeller is a rotating component that draws fuel from the tank and pressurizes it for delivery to the engine (or fuel cell stack in the case of the Hydrogen variant). The recall stems from a manufacturing defect involving the impeller supplier, Denso Corporation. During production, the low-pressure fuel pump impellers were improperly molded or cured. Over time, exposure to fuel can cause these defective impellers to soften, deform, and eventually, break apart. Once the impeller becomes warped or breaks, the fuel pump is unable to generate the necessary pressure to deliver fuel properly.

Consequences of Fuel Pump Failure: Why It's Dangerous

A failing or failed fuel pump directly translates to a loss of engine power or inability to start. This presents severe hazards:

  1. Sudden Engine Stall While Driving: This is the most critical risk. If the fuel pump fails while the vehicle is in motion, especially at higher speeds on highways or in dense traffic, the engine will abruptly shut down. This causes an immediate loss of power steering (making the steering wheel very hard to turn) and power braking (significantly increasing stopping distance). Drivers may struggle to control the vehicle or maneuver to safety, creating a high potential for a collision with other vehicles or objects.
  2. Inability to Restart After Parking: The vehicle may not restart after being turned off. This leaves occupants stranded, potentially in inconvenient or unsafe locations.
  3. Inability to Start Initially: The vehicle might fail to start at all. While less dangerous than stalling at speed, this causes significant inconvenience and leaves the owner without transportation unexpectedly.
  4. Stranded in Dangerous Situations: Whether due to stalling or a no-start condition, being stranded can put occupants at risk depending on location, weather, or traffic conditions.

Which Honda Clarity Models Are Affected?

The Honda Clarity fuel pump recall specifically targets model years 2017, 2018, and 2019. Both body styles of the Honda Clarity fall under this recall:

  • Honda Clarity Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV): This version operates primarily on electric power with a gasoline engine that kicks in when needed or for longer distances. Its fuel pump is crucial for engine operation.
  • Honda Clarity Hydrogen Fuel Cell (FCEV): While primarily powered by a hydrogen fuel cell stack generating electricity, the Clarity FCEV also utilizes a small, conventional lithium-ion battery pack and incorporates an electric motor. Importantly, the recall notice specifically identifies that the recalled low-pressure fuel pump assembly is part of the Fuel Cell Voltage Control Unit (FCVCU) auxiliary system in these vehicles. This system may require a functional fuel pump for certain auxiliary operations related to the fuel cell system, though the primary propulsion is electric. Failure could still lead to operational problems or potential stalling situations.

Key Recalls to Note (Check Your Specific VIN):

Honda initiated multiple recalls related to this Denso fuel pump defect. The Clarity models may be included under one or more of these specific campaign numbers issued by Honda and the NHTSA:

  • Recall 20V-709: One of the initial large recalls covering numerous Honda models, including potentially the Clarity.
  • Recall 21V-502: Another extensive recall for the Denso fuel pump issue.
  • Recall 22V-855 & 22V-856: Later expansions of the recall campaigns to include additional VINs.
  • Recall 23V-838 & 23V-840: Even more recent expansions or re-notifications related to the same defect.

It is vital to understand that your specific Clarity VIN will determine which recall bulletin(s) it falls under. Checking your VIN using the official methods below is the only way to know for certain.

Symptoms of a Failing Denso Fuel Pump

While the recall repair should be performed regardless of symptoms, being aware of warning signs is prudent:

  1. Engine Cranks But Doesn't Start: The starter motor turns the engine over, but the engine fails to fire up due to lack of fuel.
  2. Engine Sputtering or Hesitation: Particularly noticeable under acceleration or load (like going uphill), the engine may misfire or momentarily lose power as the failing pump struggles to deliver adequate fuel pressure.
  3. Loss of Power While Driving: The vehicle may feel like it's "bucking" or suddenly lose power and speed, potentially leading to stalling.
  4. Engine Stalling: The engine abruptly shuts off while driving.
  5. High-Pitched Whining Noise from Fuel Tank: A noticeably louder or unusual whining sound coming from the vicinity of the fuel tank area (rear seat/boot area) when the ignition is turned on, even before starting the engine, can indicate a fuel pump struggling.

If you experience any of these symptoms, especially stalling, pull over safely as soon as possible. Do not attempt to restart the vehicle immediately. Turn the ignition off, wait a few moments, and try restarting. If it starts, drive cautiously to the nearest safe location and contact a Honda dealer immediately. If it does not start, call for roadside assistance. Report the symptoms and mention the ongoing Honda Clarity fuel pump recall to both the dealer and the NHTSA (via their website).

How to Check If Your Honda Clarity is Included in the Recall

Do not assume your Clarity is included or excluded based solely on the model year. Always verify using your unique 17-character VIN. Here's how:

  1. Official Honda Recalls Website: This is the most direct and recommended method.
    • Visit: www.recalls.honda.com (US) or www.recalls.honda.ca (Canada).
    • Enter your full 17-character VIN. You can find the VIN:
      • On the driver's side dashboard, visible through the windshield at the bottom corner.
      • On the driver's side door jamb (sticker).
      • On your vehicle registration or insurance card.
    • Click "Check VIN." The website will instantly display any open recalls on your specific vehicle, including this fuel pump recall. It will clearly state if your vehicle is affected or not.
  2. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) Website:
    • Visit: www.nhtsa.gov/recalls
    • Enter your VIN in the search bar.
    • The site will show safety recalls from all manufacturers applicable to your VIN within the last 15 years.
  3. Contact Your Local Honda Dealer: Provide your VIN over the phone or in person, and they can check their system. However, using the online tools is usually faster.
  4. Mail Notification (Possible but Not Guaranteed): Honda sends recall notices via first-class mail to registered owners. However, reliance on mail alone is not advised. Address changes or delays can occur. Checking online is immediate.

What to Do If Your Vehicle is Recalled: The Free Repair Process

  1. Confirm via VIN: Verify your Clarity is included using one of the methods above.
  2. Contact an Authorized Honda Dealer: Call your preferred Honda dealership. Explain your vehicle is affected by the fuel pump recall (mentioning the recall number if you know it, e.g., 20V-709, is helpful but not essential). Schedule an appointment for the repair.
  3. Bring Your Vehicle In: At your scheduled appointment, take your Honda Clarity to the dealership's service department.
  4. Repair Procedure: Qualified Honda technicians will replace the defective low-pressure fuel pump assembly with a new, non-defective unit. The repair is free of charge to the vehicle owner. Honda reimburses dealers for the cost of parts and labor. No payment should be requested from you for the recall repair itself.
  5. Time Required: The repair typically takes a few hours. Discuss loaner vehicle or shuttle service availability with the dealer when scheduling if needed.

Important Considerations for Honda Clarity Owners

  1. Recall is Mandatory for Safety: This is not an optional service campaign. It is a safety recall mandated by NHTSA and Honda. Having the repair done is crucial to mitigate the risk of a dangerous stall.
  2. Cost: The repair is completely free to the owner. Honda covers all costs associated with parts and labor.
  3. Parts Availability: Due to the massive scale of this recall (affecting millions of vehicles across Honda and other manufacturers), there were initial parts shortages. Honda prioritizes parts allocation based on risk factors and availability. If your dealer informs you parts are on backorder, be persistent:
    • Get your name on the waitlist for your specific VIN.
    • Ask the dealer to check the Honda parts system inventory for availability.
    • Periodically follow up with the dealer.
    • Confirm your contact details are correct with Honda ownership records (update via myhonda.com or contact Honda Customer Service).
  4. No Need for Original Ownership: The repair is free regardless of whether you are the original owner, second owner, or tenth owner. The recall obligation follows the vehicle identification number (VIN). Subsequent owners are entitled to the free repair.
  5. Rental Car/Loaner: While Honda is not required by law to provide a free loaner car while waiting for parts or during the repair, many dealers offer this as a customer courtesy, especially if the repair time is long or if you report concerning symptoms. Ask your dealer directly about their loaner vehicle or rental reimbursement policy specifically related to this safety recall. Document any communication regarding this.
  6. Recall Completion Documentation: Once the repair is complete, the dealer will update the recall status in the Honda database. Retain the repair invoice/receipt for your records. You can also verify completion online later using your VIN on Honda's or NHTSA's recall websites.

Why Honda and NHTSA Take This Seriously (The Broader Picture)

The Denso fuel pump recall is one of the largest automotive recalls in history, impacting tens of millions of vehicles across multiple manufacturers (including Toyota, Subaru, Mitsubishi, Mazda, etc.). Honda and NHTSA monitor safety defects through customer reports, dealer reports, warranty claims, and field data. The widespread nature of the impeller defect and the inherently dangerous outcome of engine stalling prompted this massive recall campaign. Both Honda and NHTSA emphasize the importance of prompt repair to prevent potential injuries and fatalities resulting from crashes caused by sudden loss of power. Your participation in getting the repair done contributes to overall road safety.

Potential Risks of Not Getting the Recall Repair Performed

Driving a vehicle with an open safety recall, especially one involving a critical component like a fuel pump that can cause sudden stalling, poses clear and serious risks:

  1. Increased Crash Risk: As detailed, stalling while driving, particularly at speed, drastically increases the likelihood of a collision.
  2. Injury or Fatality: A crash resulting from stalling can cause injuries to you, your passengers, and occupants of other vehicles or pedestrians. In the worst case, it can be fatal.
  3. Stranding in Hazardous Conditions: Being stranded due to a stall or no-start condition exposes you to risks depending on location, traffic, weather (extreme heat/cold), and potential criminal activity.
  4. Further Vehicle Damage: While less critical than safety, complete fuel pump failure can sometimes cause additional strain or issues, though the primary risk is the sudden operational failure.
  5. Reduced Resale Value: An open recall can deter potential buyers or significantly lower the resale value of your vehicle. Completing all recalls is essential before selling.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

  • Q: Is my Honda Clarity definitely affected if it's a 2017-2019 model?
    • A: NO. Only specific VINs within these model years are affected. Always check using your exact VIN on recalls.honda.com or nhtsa.gov/recalls.
  • Q: Is it safe to drive my Honda Clarity until I get the repair?
    • A: Honda advises that if you are not experiencing symptoms, you can continue driving, but you should schedule the repair as soon as possible. If you experience ANY symptoms, especially engine sputtering, loss of power, or stalling, stop driving the vehicle immediately and have it towed to a Honda dealer. Inform them of the symptoms and the recall.
  • Q: How long will the repair take?
    • A: The repair itself usually takes a few hours. However, if parts are unavailable, you may have to wait until they become available. The actual replacement procedure isn't typically lengthy.
  • Q: I bought my Clarity used. Is the recall repair still free?
    • A: YES. Recalls follow the VIN. All current owners are entitled to free repairs, regardless of the number of previous owners.
  • Q: I paid to have my fuel pump replaced before the recall was announced. Can I get reimbursed?
    • A: POSSIBLY. Honda generally offers reimbursement for qualifying repairs paid for before the recall announcement that addressed the exact defect covered by the recall. Gather all your receipts and repair orders documenting the repair and contact Honda Customer Service at 1-888-234-2138 (US) to inquire about the formal reimbursement process for your specific case. Act promptly as reimbursement requests often have time limitations.
  • Q: Does this recall affect the electric driving range or hydrogen operation?
    • A: (For PHEV): The primary risk is to the gasoline engine operation. However, if the engine stalls unexpectedly while driving, it disrupts the hybrid operation. If the engine won't start when needed, it limits the vehicle's overall range beyond its pure electric capacity.
    • A: (For FCEV): While the primary propulsion is electric, the recall notice specifies the fuel pump is part of an auxiliary system (the Fuel Cell Voltage Control Unit). A failure in this auxiliary system could potentially cause drivability issues or failure of the fuel cell system to operate correctly, leading to similar stalling risks. All included FCEVs require the repair.
  • Q: I received a recall notice years ago. Is this a new recall?
    • A: This isn't necessarily a brand-new recall, but there were expansions. Vehicles not included in the initial announcements (e.g., 20V-709) might have been added later (e.g., 21V-502, 22V-855/856, 23V-838/840). This is why checking your VIN now is essential – your vehicle might have been added in a later expansion even if you thought you weren't included before. Always check using your current VIN status.

Take Action Now: Prioritize Your Safety

The Honda Clarity fuel pump recall addresses a serious safety defect with the potential for dangerous consequences. If you own a 2017-2019 Honda Clarity Plug-in Hybrid or Hydrogen Fuel Cell vehicle, verifying its recall status is not just a recommendation – it's a critical safety step. Checking your VIN takes only seconds on the official Honda recalls website or NHTSA's site. If your vehicle is included, schedule the free repair at your Honda dealer immediately. Don't wait for symptoms to appear; proactive replacement is the only way to ensure the defect is remedied and your vehicle is safe to drive. Your safety, the safety of your passengers, and the safety of others on the road depend on it.

Back to blog