Electric Cars

A recent safety announcement from Acura details a recall initiative for a substantial number of its ILX sedan models. This action is prompted by a critical flaw within the brake system that could compromise vehicle safety. Despite the model's cessation of production, the manufacturer is committed to ensuring the well-being of its customers by addressing this potential hazard, which impacts tens of thousands of vehicles across several model years.

The underlying problem has been traced to a manufacturing anomaly affecting the brake master cylinder. Contaminants from the brake fluid reservoir hose can degrade a crucial seal, leading to reduced braking power and increased stopping distances. This issue, identified after a prolonged investigation, highlights the manufacturer's responsibility to active safety oversight, even for vehicles no longer in production, reinforcing the importance of timely repairs for vehicle owners.

Extensive Recall Addresses Brake System Vulnerability

Acura has initiated a significant recall covering 70,658 ILX sedans produced between the 2016 and 2020 model years in the United States. This action comes after the discovery of a brake master cylinder defect that can lead to diminished braking performance and prolonged stopping distances. The flaw significantly increases the risk of collisions or occupant injuries. Despite the low estimated incidence rate of 0.3% for the defect, the company has opted for a comprehensive recall based on production records that indicate all potentially affected vehicles. This proactive measure ensures that current owners of the discontinued ILX model receive necessary safety interventions, demonstrating an ongoing commitment to vehicle safety.

The recall targets a critical safety concern related to the vehicle's braking system. A specific defect involving the brake master cylinder could compromise the car's ability to stop effectively. This issue is rooted in the degradation of a seal within the master cylinder due to contamination from residual plasticizer leaching from the brake reservoir hose into the brake fluid. This process causes the seal to swell and deform, particularly exacerbated by engine heat during normal operation. As a result, drivers may experience a softer brake pedal and an increase in the distance required to bring the vehicle to a halt. While no specific warning lights are designed to alert drivers to this particular issue, the noticeable change in brake response itself serves as a crucial indicator of a potential safety risk.

Root Cause Identified and Remedial Actions Planned

Honda's investigation into the braking issue spanned nearly a decade, starting with initial complaints in December 2015 regarding intermittent brake pedal pressure loss. A formal investigation was launched in October 2021, but early attempts to replicate the problem proved unsuccessful, delaying a definitive diagnosis. Over the subsequent years, between 2022 and 2025, engineers conducted extensive analysis focusing on brake fluid contamination, seal swelling, and the vulcanization process of the reservoir hose. This thorough examination eventually revealed a direct link between the hose's storage conditions, plasticizer retention, and the subsequent deformation of the master cylinder seal. By December 2025, Honda officially recognized the issue as a motor vehicle safety defect, leading to the approval of the recall, with 192 warranty claims reported but no crashes or injuries confirmed.

The defect's progression begins with residual plasticizer from the brake reservoir hose contaminating the brake fluid. This contamination causes the secondary cup seal inside the brake master cylinder to swell and deform over time. The problem is intensified by the radiant heat generated by the engine during everyday driving. When this seal expands, its ability to properly function within the master cylinder is compromised, allowing brake fluid to bypass it, especially when the brake pedal is applied lightly or slowly. This ultimately results in a spongy brake pedal feel and necessitates longer distances to stop the vehicle, posing a significant safety concern for drivers. To rectify this, authorized Acura dealers will replace the affected brake master cylinder assembly with an upgraded unit featuring a more robust sealing cup made from different materials. The repair will be provided at no cost to vehicle owners, and Honda has established a reimbursement process for any eligible repairs already undertaken by owners. Dealer notifications were initiated in December 2025, and owner notification letters are scheduled to be dispatched in February 2026. Owners are encouraged to use VIN lookup tools to confirm their vehicle's eligibility and to schedule repairs promptly, underscoring the manufacturer's commitment to safety even for models no longer in production.

Rebirth of a Legend: The Carrera GT's Journey to Perfection

The Sonderwunsch Division: Restoring Automotive Icons

Porsche's specialized customization unit, known as Sonderwunsch, serves as a virtual time machine for automotive enthusiasts. This division allows owners to commission comprehensive restorations, bringing their prized vehicles back to an immaculate, "zero-kilometer" condition, complete with meticulous documentation. This intensive process was recently applied to a 2005 Carrera GT, a legendary supercar from two decades ago, returning it to its original mechanical splendor.

The "Factory Re-Commission" Process: A New Beginning

Porsche terms these extensive projects "Factory Re-Commission," involving the complete dismantling of a vehicle. A similar transformation was seen with a first-generation Cayenne GTS, a rare model equipped with a six-speed manual transmission. For the Carrera GT, all technical components of the V-10 supercar have been painstakingly restored to their exact 2005 specifications, effectively making it as good as new.

A Bold Aesthetic Transformation: Racing Heritage Reimagined

While the mechanical aspects return to factory fresh, the aesthetic journey of this particular Carrera GT took a different path. Departing from its original silver finish, the owner requested a custom racing livery, drawing inspiration from the iconic 1970 Le Mans-winning 917. This #23 race car famously wore the vibrant colors of Salzburg, Austria, a palette now faithfully reproduced on the Carrera GT.

Dedicated Ownership: Driving a Masterpiece

The new livery, meticulously replicated at the owner Victor Gómez's request, is protected by a special foil. This ensures the car's stunning hand-painted exterior remains pristine, a crucial detail given the owner's intention to drive this masterpiece, rather than merely display it. Unlike many collectors who might preserve such a valuable vehicle in a climate-controlled environment, Gómez plans to actively enjoy his unique Porsche on the road.

Distinctive Exterior Enhancements: A Modern Racing Edge

Further setting this 2005 Carrera GT apart are its bespoke design elements. Matte-black carbon accents and the prominent "23" racing number define its new persona. The engine cover's grilles have been finished in matte black anodized aluminum, harmonizing with the darker details and providing a striking contrast against the car's dominant red and white theme. The wheels, too, are now black, amplifying the car's aggressive and modern racing aesthetic.

Luxurious Interior Redesign: Alcantara's Embrace

The interior of the Carrera GT has undergone an equally dramatic transformation. Red Alcantara, a high-quality synthetic suede, now lavishly adorns almost every surface. From the dashboard and door panels to the steering wheel and center console, the cabin exudes a luxurious yet sporty feel. This elegant material even extends to the front trunk, where a custom-matched luggage set awaits.

Innovative Material Integration: Bridging Generations

Adding another layer of sophistication, Porsche integrated black textile elements from the Carrera GT's successor, the 918 Spyder, into certain interior areas. The seat shells are crafted from matte carbon, a material also found on the instrument panel and air vents, further enhancing the cabin's high-tech and performance-oriented ambiance.

Exclusivity and Unrivaled Satisfaction: A Priceless Possession

The Carrera GT, a limited-production model with only 1,270 units built between 2003 and 2006, was initially priced at €452,690 in Germany and $440,000 in the US. While the exact cost of Gómez's extensive overhaul remains undisclosed, it is clear that creating such a unique, factory-fresh supercar was a significant investment. As the owner eloquently states, he now possesses a "new condition" Carrera GT, perfectly tailored to his personal vision, a truly priceless acquisition.