Honda has announced a recall for its hydrogen-powered CR-V e: FCEV in the United States after discovering a possible problem with the vehicle’s fuel cell system. The issue could cause coolant to leak inside the fuel cell stack, which may lead to electrical problems and reduced vehicle performance.
This recall affects the most expensive and most advanced version of the Honda CR-V, which runs on hydrogen fuel and electricity. According to American Honda Motor, the coolant used to keep the fuel cell stack at the correct temperature could leak into areas where it should not be. If this happens, it may cause a short circuit inside the system.
What Caused the Problem?
Honda says there are two main reasons behind the issue:
- A manufacturing process change reduced the amount of sealing adhesive used in certain areas
- A supplier failed to properly smooth (deburr) an O-ring groove on a part called the wobble joint
Because of these issues, the seal may not work as intended, allowing coolant to escape into the fuel cell housing.
What Happens If Coolant Leaks?
Ifcoolant leaks into the fuel cell stack case, it can create an electrical short between internal components. When this happens, the vehicle may display several warning messages on the dashboard.
Drivers may see alerts such as:
- Power system warning
- Fuel cell insulation fluid warning
- Ground fault warning
In more serious cases, the vehicle may switch into a low-power safety mode, limiting output to about 20 kilowatts (27 horsepower). The dashboard may also display messages telling the driver not to drive or to stop driving when it is safe.
Vehicles Affected
The recall includes CR-V e: FCEV models built between June 2024 and March 2025. These vehicles are assembled at Honda’s Performance Manufacturing Center in Marysville, Ohio, which is the only factory producing this model for the U.S. market.
The fuel cell system is supplied by Fuel Cell System Manufacturing (FCSM), a joint venture between Honda and a major U.S. automaker. This partnership began full-scale production of fuel cell systems in January 2024. See more Photos
How Honda Discovered the Issue
Honda first learned about the problem in November 2024, after receiving a warranty claim related to a warning light caused by a ground fault. By January 2025, engineers were able to recreate the coolant leak during testing, which led to a deeper investigation.
During the review, Honda also identified a technical issue related to U.S. vehicle safety standards, prompting the company to move forward with an official recall.
So far, Honda has confirmed 14 warranty claims related to this issue, covering the period from June 3, 2024, to December 4, 2025. No accidents or injuries have been reported.
What Is the Fix?
Honda will replace the fuel cell stack assembly in affected vehicles. The updated parts include:
- A new rubber end-unit seal
- Properly deburred wobble joints
The supplier corrected the manufacturing process in May 2025, meaning newer vehicles should not have this problem.
Owner and Dealer Notifications
Honda informed dealerships about the recall on December 12, 2025. Vehicle owners will receive official notification letters by mail no later than February 2, 2026. The repair will be done at no cost to customers.
About the CR-V e: FCEV
The Honda CR-V e: FCEV is only available as a lease in California, where hydrogen fueling stations are more common. Honda also offers up to $15,000 in hydrogen fuel credits during the lease period.
The vehicle uses:
- Two hydrogen tanks holding 9.5 pounds (4.3 kg) of hydrogen
- A 17.7-kWh battery
It offers a total driving range of 270 miles (435 km). On battery power alone, it can travel about 29 miles (47 km) before switching to hydrogen power.
Final Thoughts
While the recall affects a limited number of vehicles, it highlights the challenges that come with advanced fuel cell technology. Honda says it is committed to fixing the issue quickly and ensuring the safety and reliability of its hydrogen-powered vehicles.
Owners of affected models are encouraged to watch for official notices and contact their local Honda dealer for more information.
FAQs
Why is my hydrogen SUV showing a fuel cell warning light?
A fuel cell warning light can turn on if coolant leaks inside the fuel cell system. This can cause an electrical fault and trigger safety alerts on the dashboard.
Is it safe to drive when a “do not drive” message appears?
No. If the screen says “do not drive” or “stop driving when safe,” the vehicle has detected a serious problem. You should pull over safely and contact a dealer.
What causes coolant to leak in a fuel cell vehicle?
Coolant leaks can happen due to weak seals or parts that were not finished properly during manufacturing. This can allow fluid to enter areas where it shouldn’t be.
What happens when coolant leaks into the fuel cell system?
Coolant inside the fuel cell housing can cause an electrical short. This may reduce power, show warning lights, or force the vehicle into a low-power mode.
Why did my vehicle suddenly lose power while driving?
The vehicle may enter a safety mode to protect the fuel cell system. In this mode, power is limited, so you can drive slowly to a safe place.
How much power is available in low-output or limp mode?
In safety mode, power may drop to about 27 horsepower. This is enough to move the vehicle, but not for normal driving speeds.
Will a fuel cell recall fix warning lights and power loss?
Yes. Recalls usually replace faulty parts like seals or joints. After the repair, warning lights and power issues should no longer happen.
Do I have to pay for repairs in a fuel cell recall?
No. Recall repairs are done for free. The manufacturer covers the full cost of parts and labor.
How will I know if my vehicle is part of a recall?
Owners usually receive a letter by mail. You can also check with a dealer using your vehicle identification number (VIN).
Can I keep driving until the recall repair is done?
If there are no warning messages, you may drive carefully. But if warnings appear or power drops, stop driving and schedule the repair as soon as possible.
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