If you own a 2008 Honda Element, the federal government is advising you to stop driving it immediately until a safety issue with the vehicle can be resolved.  The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has issued a recall notice for 2008 Elements.  The recall affects very few owners -- the NHTSA estimates that there are 241 vehicles impacted -- but is risky enough to warrant the government's most urgent type of recall notice.

According to a defect notice filed on the NHTSA website, some 2008 Elements have an improperly welded front bushing bracket on the left trailing arm of the rear suspension.  During even normal driving, there is a risk that the weld may fail, causing the suspension disconnect from part of the wheel hub, making the car uncontrollable.  Separation could also damage the brake system.

The recall affects cars manufactured during a certain period of time.  Honda can determine whether or not your Element is affected based on the VIN alone.  Honda will be contacting the owners of affected vehicles by phone, but Element owners are advised to contact Honda at 1-800-999-1009, or the NHTSA at 1-888-327-4236.  Honda dealers should arrange to transport the vehicle to a dealership and repair the suspension at no cost to owners. 

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