Software Error Causes Loss Of Drive Power In Honda Accord

If you own a 2023, 2024, or 2025 Honda Accord Hybrid, your vehicle may be part of a growing recall involving a serious software problem that can cause sudden loss of drive power while driving. Honda has confirmed the defect, and nearly two years of internal investigation led to a recall decision in November 2025.

Faulty ICM Software Logic

At the center of the issue is the Integrated Control Module (ICM)—a computer that manages numerous electrical and hybrid-system functions in the Accord Hybrid.

Honda discovered that the ICM’s central processing unit (CPU) can unexpectedly reset while the vehicle is in motion. When the CPU resets, the car may suddenly lose propulsion, creating a dangerous situation—especially at highway speeds or in intersections.

Honda traced the problem to incorrect monitoring software inside the ICM:

• The supplier misunderstood the component specifications during development.
• As a result, the monitoring software incorrectly flagged normal internal communication noise as a CPU failure.
• New functions added to the ICM increased electrical load and noise levels.
• This made false CPU abnormality detections even more frequent.
• The system would then reset the CPU—even though nothing was actually wrong.

A CPU reset while driving can cause loss of motive power, putting drivers and passengers at risk of a crash.

Timeline of Honda’s Internal Investigation

Honda’s investigation unfolded over nearly two years. The process began on March 8, 2024, when the company received its first report of the issue and opened a formal review. By June 9, 2025, Honda and the ICM’s CPU supplier had identified a potential cause and continued their joint analysis. In October 2025, Honda began reviewing regulatory obligations, quarantined suspect vehicles, and confirmed that the problem could result in safety-related symptoms such as loss of drive power. Finally, on November 6, 2025, Honda determined the issue constituted a safety defect and initiated a recall. Between December 14, 2022, and October 31, 2025, Honda received 832 warranty claims but reported no injuries or fatalities linked to the defect.

What Honda Vehicles Are Affected?

This recall affects certain 2023–2025 Honda Accord Hybrid models equipped with the faulty ICM software.

Honda’s internal recall number: TN2
NHTSA campaign number: 25V-785

How Dealers Will Fix the Problem

Honda dealerships will correct the problem by reprograming the Integrated Control Module’s CPU software. This update corrects the flawed monitoring logic and prevents false CPU resets. Honda plans to mail official recall notices on January 5, 2026.

What This Means for Drivers

Loss of drive power is a serious defect. Even a momentary loss of propulsion can create dangerous conditions, especially:

• During highway passing
• While turning left across traffic
• In stop-and-go traffic
• On steep hills

Drivers experiencing hesitation, sudden deceleration, or dashboard warning messages should contact their Honda dealership immediately.

If You Experience This Problem

If Honda fails to repair the defect, or your Accord Hybrid continues to experience power loss even after the recall work, you may qualify for repurchase, replacement, or compensation under consumer protection laws, depending on your state.