- In August 2010, Honda reported to the NHTSA that approximately 384,220 vehicles including 2003 Honda Civic hybrids possessed an ignition interlock defect that could cause a roll-away accident if the automatic transmission isn't shifted to the off position. By September 22, 2010, Honda had amended its numbers to 551,498 vehicles affected by this problem. NHTSA closed its investigation on October 14, 2010.
- In October 2010, Honda began recalling certain model year 2003 Honda Civic hybrids as part of a larger recall also affecting Accords and Elements. Honda informed registered vehicle owners that a deformed interlock lever of the ignition which could cause the vehicles' automatic transmission not to properly shift when parked, which could cause a roll-away crash or accident. Authorized dealers were instructed to replace the potentially defective interlock mechanisms free of charge to those affected by the recall.
- By January 2009, NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation had received 28 complaints from consumers reporting that their vehicles affected by the ignition interlock defects recall caused the automatic transmission not to shift to the off position. Ten complaints involved roll-away crashes. One vehicle owner told NHTSA she was almost run over while trying to stop her vehicle. Another vehicle owner reported her Honda rolled out of the driveway and crashed into a tree across the street.
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