Honda Accord Recall Hits 256,000+ Cars! Tariffs Could Raise Prices NEXT
About this episode
Honda's recent recall affects over 256,000 Accord hybrids due to a software issue that can cause power loss while driving. The episode discusses the implications of ongoing chip shortages on production and potential $1.8 billion tariffs that could raise vehicle prices. Notable updates include Toyota's $912 million investment in U.S. plants and the return of the Honda Prelude as a hybrid sports coupe. The episode also covers new vehicle announcements from Lexus and Kia, highlighting advancements in hybrid technology and performance.
This week on Weekly Wheelhouse, we’re breaking down the biggest U.S. automotive stories that directly impact car owners and buyers right now.
Honda has issued a major recall affecting over 256,000 Accord Hybrids, after a software failure was found that can cause a sudden loss of power while driving. We explain what’s happening, which model years are affected, and what owners should do next.
We also dig into the ongoing chip shortage, why it’s still disrupting production in 2025, and how it’s quietly influencing vehicle availability and pricing across the industry.
Plus, a new $1.8 billion tariff impact is adding fresh pressure to vehicle costs — especially for imports and components — raising concerns that higher prices could soon reach showroom floors.
This episode of Weekly Wheelhouse cuts through the noise to explain:
• What’s actually happening
• Why it matters to consumers
• How it could affect your next vehicle purchase
No hype. No fluff. Just the facts — clearly explained.
Weekly Wheelhouse — Auto News. Simplified.
2025 Lexus LC Convertible Review - https://youtu.be/jjDlIQXaM1E?si=ijhcLQgxLE79x-Il
Honda Accord
"Honda is recalling 256,603 Accord hybrids, model years 2023 through 2025. A software failure in the integrated control module can cause the CPU to reset while driving, leading to sudden loss of power."
The Honda Accord Hybrid is a version of the Honda Accord that uses both gas and electricity to run, making it more fuel-efficient. It's part of the Accord family, which is a well-known sedan.
The Honda Accord Hybrid is a fuel-efficient version of the popular Accord sedan, utilizing a hybrid powertrain that combines a gasoline engine with an electric motor. This model is known for its reliability and advanced technology features.
chip shortage
"Next, Honda also announced progress on its chip shortage. After a three-week disruption caused by supplier Nexperia..."
A chip shortage means there aren't enough tiny computer parts needed to make cars work properly, which can slow down car production.
The chip shortage refers to a global supply chain issue affecting the availability of semiconductor chips, which are essential for modern vehicle electronics and production.
dealer markups
"Now that Honda has secured an alternative chip supply, inventory should improve and dealer markups should ease going into 2026."
Dealer markups are when car sellers charge more than the official price set by the car maker, usually because there aren't enough cars available.
Dealer markups refer to the practice where car dealerships increase the price of a vehicle above its manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP), often due to high demand or low supply.
aftermarket industry
"SEMA is warning the White House that new tariffs, some as high as 25%, are putting serious strain on the $337 billion aftermarket industry. Many wheels, lift kits, exhaust systems, and performance parts now cost significantly more to import."
The aftermarket industry is all about car parts and accessories that you can buy after you purchase a car. This includes things like custom wheels and performance upgrades.
The aftermarket industry refers to the market for parts, accessories, and services that are not supplied by the original manufacturer. This industry includes modifications and enhancements for vehicles, which can be impacted by tariffs and other regulations.
tariffs
"SEMA is warning the White House that new tariffs, some as high as 25%, are putting serious strain on the $337 billion aftermarket industry. Many wheels, lift kits, exhaust systems, and performance parts now cost significantly more to import."
Tariffs are extra charges added to the price of goods coming from other countries. When car parts are taxed, it can make cars more expensive for buyers.
Tariffs are taxes imposed on imported goods, which can lead to increased costs for manufacturers and consumers. In the automotive industry, tariffs on parts and materials can significantly affect vehicle pricing and availability.
exhaust systems
"Many wheels, lift kits, exhaust systems, and performance parts now cost significantly more to import."
Exhaust systems are the parts of a car that help get rid of gas from the engine and make it quieter. Many people upgrade these parts to improve their car's performance and sound.
Exhaust systems are components that direct exhaust gases away from the engine and reduce noise. Upgraded exhaust systems can improve performance and sound, making them a popular aftermarket modification.
lift kits
"Many wheels, lift kits, exhaust systems, and performance parts now cost significantly more to import."
Lift kits are parts you can add to a vehicle to make it taller. This helps with off-roading and allows for bigger tires, but they can become more expensive if tariffs are applied.
Lift kits are aftermarket modifications that raise the height of a vehicle's suspension, allowing for larger tires and improved off-road capability. They are popular among off-road enthusiasts and can be affected by import tariffs.
performance parts
"Many wheels, lift kits, exhaust systems, and performance parts now cost significantly more to import."
Performance parts are special upgrades you can add to a car to make it faster or handle better. They can include things like better brakes or a more powerful engine.
Performance parts are aftermarket components designed to enhance a vehicle's speed, handling, or overall performance. These can include upgrades to the engine, suspension, and braking systems.
Toyota Corolla
"The biggest news? The Corolla Hybrid will now be built in Mississippi for the first time."
The Toyota Corolla Hybrid is a version of the Corolla that uses both a gasoline engine and an electric motor to save fuel and reduce emissions.
The Toyota Corolla Hybrid is a fuel-efficient version of the popular Corolla sedan, designed to offer a blend of performance and eco-friendliness through hybrid technology.
Lexus UX 300h
"Starting off with Lexus revealing the 2026 UX 300h, featuring a more powerful 196 horsepower hybrid system..."
The Lexus UX 300h is a small luxury SUV that uses both a gas engine and an electric motor to provide better fuel economy and lower emissions.
The Lexus UX 300h is a hybrid compact SUV that combines luxury features with fuel efficiency, offering a powerful hybrid system for a smooth driving experience.
lithium-ion battery
"Lexus revealing the 2026 UX 300h, featuring a more powerful 196 horsepower hybrid system, a redesigned transaxle, and a lighter lithium-ion battery."
A lithium-ion battery is a rechargeable battery that stores energy for electric motors in hybrid and electric cars, helping them run more efficiently.
A lithium-ion battery is a type of rechargeable battery commonly used in hybrid and electric vehicles due to its high energy density and ability to hold a charge for longer periods.
transaxle
"Lexus revealing the 2026 UX 300h, featuring a more powerful 196 horsepower hybrid system, a redesigned transaxle, and a lighter lithium-ion battery."
A transaxle is a part of the car that combines the transmission and the axle, making it easier for the car to drive efficiently, especially in smaller vehicles.
A transaxle is a component that combines the transmission and axle in a single unit, commonly found in front-wheel-drive vehicles, helping to save space and improve efficiency.
hybrid system
"Lexus revealing the 2026 UX 300h, featuring a more powerful 196 horsepower hybrid system..."
A hybrid system uses both a gas engine and an electric motor to help the car use less fuel and produce fewer emissions.
A hybrid system combines a gasoline engine with an electric motor to improve fuel efficiency and reduce emissions, allowing for better performance and lower environmental impact.
0-60 time
"It does 0-60 in 7.9 seconds with all-wheel drive and 8 seconds with front-wheel drive."
0-60 time measures how fast a car can go from stopped to 60 miles per hour. It's often used to compare how quick different cars are.
0-60 time refers to the duration it takes for a vehicle to accelerate from a complete stop to 60 miles per hour. It's a common performance metric used to gauge a car's acceleration capabilities.
fuel economy
"Fuel economy comes in at 43 miles per gallon combined for the front-wheel drive and 41 miles per gallon combined for the all-wheel drive."
Fuel economy tells you how far a car can go on a gallon of gas. The higher the number, the better it is at saving fuel.
Fuel economy measures how efficiently a vehicle uses fuel, typically expressed in miles per gallon (MPG). Higher MPG values indicate better efficiency, meaning the car can travel further on a gallon of fuel.
Honda Prelude
"Next, Honda confirmed the return of the Prelude as a hybrid sports coupe for 2026."
The Honda Prelude is a type of sports car that Honda is bringing back as a hybrid model in 2026. It aims to offer both sporty performance and better fuel efficiency.
The Honda Prelude is a sports coupe that was known for its performance and handling. The return of the Prelude as a hybrid sports coupe for 2026 indicates Honda's focus on combining sporty characteristics with hybrid technology.
Type R
"...paired with Type R chassis components and Honda's new S-plus shift mode..."
Type R is a special version of Honda cars that are designed for better performance and handling. They are often faster and more fun to drive.
Type R is a performance-oriented trim level for Honda vehicles, particularly known for its sporty enhancements, tuning, and track-ready features. It represents the pinnacle of Honda's performance engineering.
S-plus shift mode
"...paired with Type R chassis components and Honda's new S-plus shift mode, which basically adds engine sound synced to your RPM gauge..."
S-plus shift mode is a setting in some cars that makes them drive sportier. It helps the car respond faster when you press the gas pedal.
S-plus shift mode is a driving mode that enhances the vehicle's performance by adjusting the transmission and throttle response. It often provides a sportier driving experience by allowing for quicker shifts and more responsive acceleration.
hybrid powertrain
"They revealed the redesigned 2027 Telluride, including its first ever hybrid powertrain."
A hybrid powertrain is a type of engine that uses both gas and electricity to make the car run. This helps the car use less fuel and be better for the environment.
A hybrid powertrain combines an internal combustion engine with an electric motor to improve fuel efficiency and reduce emissions. This technology allows vehicles to use less fuel while still providing adequate power.
Kia Telluride
"They revealed the redesigned 2027 Telluride, including its first ever hybrid powertrain."
The Kia Telluride is a popular SUV known for being roomy and comfortable. The new version coming out in 2027 will have a hybrid engine, which means it will be better at saving fuel.
The Kia Telluride is a mid-size SUV that has gained popularity for its spacious interior, strong performance, and value. The redesigned 2027 model introduces a hybrid powertrain, enhancing its fuel efficiency.
horsepower
"The new turbo-hybrid engine provides 329 horsepower and 35 miles per gallon combined with a possible range of 600 miles."
Horsepower is a way to measure how powerful a car's engine is. The more horsepower a car has, the faster it can go.
Horsepower is a unit of measurement for power, often used to describe the power output of engines. More horsepower typically means better performance and acceleration in vehicles.
V8 engine
"this car reminds you of why a V8 still matters."
A V8 engine is a type of car engine with eight cylinders. It makes cars go really fast and sound powerful.
A V8 engine is an eight-cylinder engine configuration that provides high power and performance. It is known for its smooth operation and strong acceleration.
Lexus LC 500
"I reviewed the 2025 Lexus LC 500 convertible and this car reminds you of why a V8 still matters."
The Lexus LC 500 is a high-end sports car that looks great and drives fast. The 2025 version has a strong engine and a fancy interior.
The Lexus LC 500 is a luxury sports coupe known for its striking design and performance. The 2025 model features a powerful V8 engine, luxurious interior, and advanced technology.
V8
"...very impressive for a V8 sports car. The trunk is pretty small at three cubic feet..."
A V8 is a type of car engine that has eight cylinders. This design helps the car go faster and run smoothly, making it popular in sports cars.
A V8 engine is an eight-cylinder engine arranged in a V configuration, which provides a good balance of power and smoothness. It's commonly found in sports cars and larger vehicles.
dynamic handling package
"...if you have the convertible, you can't get the dynamic handling package that has the rear steer..."
The dynamic handling package is a set of upgrades for a car that helps it handle better on the road. It makes the car feel more responsive and easier to control when driving fast.
The dynamic handling package typically includes features that enhance a vehicle's handling and performance, such as adjustable suspension and rear steering. It's designed for improved agility and responsiveness.
Lexus
"...this thing just is a rolling piece of art and it has the Lexus reliability behind it."
Lexus is a brand that makes luxury cars. They are part of Toyota and are known for being very reliable.
Lexus is the luxury vehicle division of the Japanese automaker Toyota, known for its reliability and high-quality vehicles.
OSR scale
"...it actually scored a 77 out of 100 on the OSR scale, so this bespoke build came in at just over $122,000."
The OSR scale is a way to measure how good a car is. A higher score means the car is more reliable and performs better.
The OSR scale is a rating system used to evaluate the overall satisfaction and reliability of vehicles, with higher scores indicating better performance and reliability.
bespoke build
"...this bespoke build came in at just over $122,000. Do you think it's worth it?"
A bespoke build means the car is made just for you, with special features that you choose. It's not a standard model you can buy anywhere.
A bespoke build refers to a custom-made vehicle that is tailored to the specific preferences and requirements of the buyer, often involving unique features and specifications.
Genesis GV70
"I also shared my experience with the 2026 Genesis GV70 and I also talked about what I'm driving..."
The Genesis GV70 is a fancy SUV made by Genesis, known for its luxury and comfort.
The Genesis GV70 is a luxury compact SUV that combines performance with premium features, offering a refined driving experience.
Mazda Cx90
"...t I'm driving right now and that's the 2026 Mazda CX90 Turbo S Premium Sport. This is Mazda's flagship 3..."
The Mazda CX-90 is a fancy SUV that's designed to be fun to drive while still being comfortable for passengers. The 2026 Turbo S Premium Sport version has a strong engine and a nice inside, making it a great option for people who want a mix of style and power.
The Mazda CX-90 is a premium midsize SUV that showcases Mazda's commitment to stylish design and engaging driving dynamics. The 2026 Turbo S Premium Sport variant features a powerful turbocharged engine and a luxurious interior, making it a standout choice for those seeking both performance and comfort.
turbo inline 6
"We have a smooth sounding turbo inline 6 with 340 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque on premium gas."
A turbo inline 6 is a powerful engine with six cylinders that helps the car go faster and use fuel more efficiently.
A turbo inline 6 engine is a type of engine configuration that features six cylinders arranged in a straight line, with a turbocharger to enhance performance and efficiency.
Hyundai Palisade
"...um gas. And next week I'll be in the 2026 Hyundai Palisade. It was fully redesigned and it will be my first ..."
The Hyundai Palisade is a large family car that can fit many passengers and their stuff. The new 2026 version has been updated to look nicer and drive better, which is why it's being talked about.
The Hyundai Palisade is a midsize SUV that has gained popularity for its spacious interior, advanced technology, and family-friendly features. The 2026 model has been fully redesigned, enhancing its style and performance, making it a significant player in the competitive SUV market.
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