TOKYOHonda Motor Company announced today that it would recall 140,000 units of the Fit/Jazz and City models in the United States, out of a total 646,000
vehicles globally.
Reuters reported this morning that the recall covers the models sold in North America, South America, Europe, South Africa and Asia, but not Japan, according to a spokeswoman for Honda.
The Fit is Honda's best-selling model in Japan, and it's fast becoming a fan favorite in North America among car buyers eager to combine fuel efficiency with class-leading cargo space and flexibility. The Fit is known for its "Magic Seats" that provide the consumer with a myriad of options for stowing gear in the small "micro-wagon" hatchback.
Fuel economy is respectable—although nowhere near hybrid numbers—rating slightly behind the Toyota Yaris, a similarly-sized compact. However, many people have gravitated to the Honda Fit for its particular mix of size, fuel economy, handling and cargo capacity.
Honda said the recall was ordered to fix a defective master switch, which could cause water to enter the power window switch and, in some cases, start a fire.
There were three reported cases of fires due to the defect, two in the United States and one in South Africa, the spokeswoman said.
There was no further information as to the model years involved.