Honda recall: Melting window switches in Fit potential fire hazard in nearly 650,000 cars

Honda Motor Co., has announced a voluntary recall of 646,000 Fit models, its globally popular sub-compact, to examine window switches that can melt or catch fire when exposed to an extreme amount of liquid.

The vehicles affected are Fit models from 2007-2008. Honda reported 141,140 units with the potential window switch issues were sold in the United States.

The problem stems from a master power window switch on the driver’s side. It will need replacement or retrofitting with a waterproof skirt. Seven cases of the part melting have been reported n the U.S., two involving fire. No injuries have been linked to 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,” Honda said in a statement from Japan. “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.”

The Honda Fit, a five-door hatchback, was introduced in Japan in 2001 and in North America in 2006. It replaced the Civic Hatchback. The Fit is also called the Jazz in Europe, some parts of Asia, Australia, Oceania, the Middle East, and Africa.

Increasingly popular, the Fit has been universally praised by auto reviewers and has received numerous awards from such publications as Motor Trend, Cars.com and Car and Driver.

For more Honda Fit recall information, vehicle owners should contact their local dealership or call Honda customer service, 1-800-999-1009.