Norway's automotive market faces a significant recall as Honda calls back 1,486 electric vehicles due to a software fault. The global recall affects over 52,000 e:Ny1 models manufactured between 2022 and 2024. A programming error can cause the odometer to reset to zero, particularly if the car's 12-volt auxiliary battery loses charge, a common winter occurrence.
Per Smedberg, the aftermarket manager for Honda Norway, confirmed the action. "We have not detected the fault in Norway and have not received customer feedback about this, but the cars must have the software updated," Smedberg said. He stated that affected customers will be contacted directly by their dealership to schedule the necessary update, which is expected to be a quick procedure.
Scope of the Recall
The recall is part of a wider global action, with the Norwegian contingent representing a portion of the 52,000 vehicles identified. The e:Ny1 is Honda's first full-electric SUV for the European market, making this a notable issue for the brand's electric transition. The fault is purely software-based and does not relate to the main drive battery or any mechanical safety components like brakes or steering. Instead, it concerns the instrument cluster's display of total mileage.
Smedberg emphasized that no accidents or injuries have been linked to the glitch. The primary risk is inaccurate vehicle mileage recording, which has legal and financial implications for ownership history, warranty servicing, and future resale value. Correct mileage is a crucial data point in Norway's well-regulated used car market.
Technical Details and Customer Procedure
The fault triggers specifically when the 12-volt battery, which powers ancillary systems like the dashboard and computers, becomes depleted. This scenario is familiar to many Norwegian drivers during cold winter months when batteries are under strain. When the system reboots after a recharge or jump-start, the software bug can cause the odometer to revert to zero kilometers.
Owners of the affected models do not need to proactively contact Honda or their dealer. The recall process is initiated by the manufacturer, which uses national vehicle registration data to notify registered keepers. The remedy involves a dealership visit where technicians will reprogram the software to a corrected version. Honda Norway has stated that the update will be performed free of charge.
Industry Context and Regulatory Framework
This recall occurs within Norway's stringent vehicle safety and consumer protection framework. The Norwegian Public Roads Administration (Statens vegvesen) oversees such actions, ensuring manufacturers comply with corrective measures. Software-related recalls are becoming increasingly common as vehicles transform into complex computers on wheels. Modern cars contain over 100 million lines of code, making software integrity as critical as mechanical reliability.
For Honda, this recall in Norway, a leading EV adoption market, is a sensitive operational test. The brand has invested heavily in promoting its electric lineup, and a smooth, transparent recall process is vital for maintaining consumer trust. The company's handling will be watched closely by potential EV buyers who prioritize reliability and after-sales support.