2007–2011 Honda Element Recall: Wire that supplies power to the trailer turn signal lights was…
NHTSA campaign 12V436000 · Trailer Hitches · filed Sep 5, 2012 · verified Jul 30, 2026
The defect
Honda is recalling certain model year 2007 through 2011 Element passenger vehicles equipped with an accessory trailer hitch wiring harness. The wire that supplies power to the trailer turn signal lights was inadvertently switched with the stop lamp wire. As a result the turn signals only illuminate when the brake lamps are illuminated. This does not comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 108, "Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."
The risk
Without trailer turn signal illumination, the driver's intent is not communicated, potentially increasing the risk of a crash.
Check whether your specific vehicle is affected
Recall campaigns often cover only certain VIN ranges. Enter your VIN on the official NHTSA site to confirm whether your vehicle is included and whether the repair is still open.
Check VIN on NHTSA →The fix — what to do
Honda will notify owners, and dealers will repair the vehicles free of charge. The safety recall began on September 20, 2012. Owners may contact Honda at 1-800-999-1009.
Honda's recall campaign number is S53.Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
Affected vehicles
Related recalls
More Honda Element recalls
- 2003 Acura CL and 11 other models — These vehicles are equipped with driver frontal air bag…
- 2003–2006 Acura MDX and 11 other models — Vehicles are equipped with passenger frontal air bag…
- 2003 Acura CL and 16 other models — Affected vehicles received a replacement driver air bag…
- 2010–2012 Acura RL and 2 other models — Honda is also recalling certain 2011-2012 Acura RL, 2011…
- 2003–2012 Honda Accord and 9 other models — Front passenger air bag may have been installed incorrectly…
Other campaigns involving Honda vehicles
Source: NHTSA recall database, campaign 12V436000 (manufacturer number S53). Data last verified Jul 30, 2026.