Honda recalls 167,000 Acura TSX cars

Honda Motor Co. is recalling about 167,000 Acura TSX cars to fix power steering hoses that could deteriorate and cause a fire under the hood.

The recall, announced Friday, involves TSXs from the 2004-2008 model years. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration said on its website that high temperatures under the hood could cause the power steering hose to crack and leak power steering oil.

The oil can leak onto a hot exhaust pipe and cause smoke and a burning smell, or even a fire.

Honda spokesman Chris Naughton said the automaker had received one report of a minor fire connected to the issue. He said there have been no reports of accidents or injuries.

The Japanese automaker said the recall is expected to begin in late May. Dealers will replace the power steering hose and seal it at no charge.

Owners can contact Acura Client Services at (800) 382-2238.

Acura considering small car below TSX

Acura RSX

With Acura's decision to nix V8 power and rear-wheel drive in favor of new hybrid drivetrains, dealers are worried that the brand's relentless pursuit of Tier 1 status – on par with Audi, BMW, Lexus and Mercedes-Benz – may be threatened. But that's not the real news.

Buried at the end of an Automotive News piece about a recent Acura dealer meeting was this gem:

"[Jeff Conrad, vice president of the Acura division] confirmed that Acura is considering a small car below the TSX sedan. The vehicle not only would compete against the BMW 1 series, Audi A3 and Volvo C30 but also would help meet looming CAFE regulations."

With the TSX's growth spurt, a smaller offering from the automaker could be in order, and judging by the competition, that could mean the rebirth of the RSX. Then again, Acura could pull a CSX (an upgraded Civic for the Canadian market) or maybe even a CR-Z-based offering. Judging by the choice wording, we somehow doubt the former is in the cards, but with Acura's recent hybrid push, something with a gas-electric drivetrain seems likely.

2010 Acura TSX

2010 Acura TSX
The 2010 TSX is a 4-door, 5-passenger sports sedan, available in 6 trims, ranging from the 6-Spd MT to the... read more V6 5-Spd AT w/ Technology Package.
price: $29,310 - $37,950

2010 Acura TSX V-6 Pictures

2010 Acura TSX V-6

2010 Acura TSX V-6

2010 Acura TSX V-6