Recall: Honda Gold Wing “Air Bag Inflator May Explode”

Of all the words that you never want to see in a recall announcement, “explode” probably ranks pretty high on that list.

But, this is exactly what we saw for this recall that affects the 2009-2016 Honda Gold Wing models equipped with an airbag, as the “air bag inflator may explode,” according to the recall headline.

This recall is of course part of the ongoing set of recalls that affect vehicles equipped with Takata airbags – of note, the new 2018 Gold Wing Tour Airbag model does not use a Takata-made airbag.

In total, this recall only affects 960 units (2009-2010 and 2012-2016 model years), though this is the third time that Honda has had to issue a recall for its Gold Wing models, because of Takata.

The issue is that these motorcycles have air bag inflators assembled as part of the air bag module that may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to higher absolute humidity, temperature, and temperature cycling.

To remedy the situation, Honda will notify affected Gold Wing owners, and Honda dealers will replace the air bag module, free of charge.

The American Honda has not yet provided a notification schedule for this, but concerned Honda Gold Wing owners may contact Honda Motorcycle Customer Support at 1-866-784-1870. Honda’s number for this recall is KJ1.

Source: NHTSA