Honda Plans to Recall Some V-6 Models

Torrance-based American Honda Motor Co. is sending recall notices this month to owners of 499,000 of its most expensive cars, asking them to bring their vehicles to a dealer for a transmission inspection.

The recall affects cars with V-6 engines and 5-speed automatic transmissions, including 2003 and early 2004 Honda Accords, Acura TLs from the 2000 through early 2004 model-years and 2001-2003 model Acura CLs.

Honda said some transmissions are not being properly lubricated, possibly resulting in broken gears and in extreme cases the transmission could fail.

This is Honda’s second round of transmission woes.

In 2002, the company replaced thousands of four- and five-speed automatics on V-6-equipped vehicles and extended the warranties covering 1.2 million Hondas and Acuras.

-- John O’Dell