Honda Ireland recalls 3,000 vehicles over fire fears

HONDA Ireland is recalling 3,000 cars over an electric switch which could short circuit and cause a fire.

The move is part of a global recall by the car manufacturer that involves 646,000 cars and follows the death of a two-year-old child last month that was sleeping in a car in South Africa when it caught fire.

The recall concerns the older model of the Honda Jazz and concerns cars registered between 2002 and 2009.

A spokesperson for Universal Honda said the problem concerns the master switch for the vehicle’s electric windows located on the driver side.

“If the master switch becomes contaminated, through a spillage for example, it could cause an electrical short circuit. Irish customers will be contacted in the next three weeks. We are currently prepping dealers and after that we will be sending out letters to the affected customers,” he said.

Car owners who have concerns should contact their Honda dealer.

The recall comes just one day after Toyota announced it may have to recall some 1.8 million cars because of a sticking accelerator pedal.

Amongst models to be recalled are the Avensis, Corolla, Yaris and Auris.

A spokesperson for Toyota has said it will be the middle of next week before they know the number and model of vehicles that will be recalled in Ireland. It’s understood the problems began in late 2008.

Toyota Ireland will be operating a helpline at 01 4190222 which will be open from 9am to 5pm tomorrow and Sunday.