According to a putative class action filed against American Honda Motor Co., Inc. (“Honda”), certain Acura models that Honda manufactures contain a defect in the infotainment system—a system designed to manage available technology while driving, “while minimizing distractions and maximizing safety.”
Specifically, the lawsuit alleges that the 2019 and 2020 Acura RDX vehicles were equipped with a single high-definition 10.2-inch display controlled by a touchpad—a shift from the prior generation’s dual-screen system consisting of direct touch, buttons, and a dial. This screen, as alleged in the complaint, allows the vehicle operator to use the audio system, the GPS navigation technology, the backup camera, and a Bluetooth-enabled phone or other advice; however, a defect causes features associated with the infotainment system to malfunction, i.e., freeze or crash. The plaintiffs allege such malfunctions cause distractions and safety issues.
One named Plaintiff, Roberta Bilbrey, allegedly experienced the defect in her 2019 Acura RDX, with the screen often displaying “system error” or simply going black. She contends she did not receive a solution after contacting Acura Tech Support or the dealership.
Legal claims:
The plaintiffs assert claims including breach of express and implied warranty, fraud by concealment, and state consumer law violations.
In support of their allegation that Defendant has been aware of this defect, Plaintiffs’ complaint cites sources including complaints made to Honda, the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration, and internet forums. Honda, allege Plaintiffs, has not found a solution to the defect in the infotainment system, and has instead told vehicle owners to await a “software update” or replaced defective parts with other defective parts.
The lawsuit seeks remedies including an award of compensatory, punitive, exemplary, and other damages.
The case is Bilbrey v. American Honda Motor Co., case number 2:19-cv-05984, in the United States District Court for the Central District of California.
