Loyal Honda fans scratch their heads on recalls.. Talk about a fall from grace. Honda was once the most bullet-proof model in the mid-market. Known for small production and high quality, the prices were barely discounted and rebates or incentives were few and far between. Fast forward to increased production from US plants in Ohio and elsewhere, and we find a quandary of issues dating back almost ten years. Why now you ask? The likely combination of the stalled economy forcing Honda fans to keep their cars longer, making the issues more common as the Honda vans and suv’s age. After the past few years of Toyota being on the hot seat, and recently KIA and Hyundai for misstating MPG ratings, the sudden focus on Honda recalls could be a more studious effort on the part of NHTSA to demand more from automakers. While many of these “recalls” or “campaigns” are voluntary on the part of the auto maker, it is not something any manufacturer wants to do on a regular basis. The damage to brand for an automaker can be as much as 20% among loyal clients and 50% for new in-market shoppers. Does the age of the vehicles being recalled, discount the scare? “Yes & No”, say used car shoppers Louise & Bud Hayes, ” the price should go down on used Honda’s  but that doesn’t mean we will buy one of those models.” Used car buyers are often more budget conscious; concerned about repairs and safety when purchasing an older model, a market segment where the once stalwart Honda was a prize. Today, in-market car buyers are actively checking every make and model, new or used, when considering a car purchase. Looking for the latest information on a host of recall related websites, NHTSA.gov and consumer autoblog forums. Sites like yahoo!autos and Edmunds.com, kbb.com share owners comments and complaints, where common problems may be repeated often but have not resulted in a national recall or service campaign creating mass public awareness. Read more about RECALLS… ————————————–

Sarah Lee Marks is MyCarlady. She has over 23+ years of experience. She writes about cars, and is a staunch consumer advocate on car related subjects. MyCarlady offers free car buying advice, and private, auto-related services to help you maintain your personal or commercial vehicles. Call Sarah Lee for more information: 702-521-7546. Join the MyCarlady newsletter to be kept up-to-date on this and other important car information. ]]>