Honda Recalling Hundreds of Thousands of Vehicles

Honda Motor Co. is recalling the popular Accord and Civic passenger cars from the 2003 model year to address problems with an ignition switch that could allow the key to be removed without the transmission being shifted into park.

The recall involves 384,220 vehicles and also includes 2003-2004 model years of the Honda Element (above).

Honda says in a posting with the government that the problem with the automatic transmissions could lead to a vehicle rolling away and increase the risk of a crash.

A Honda spokesman did not immediately comment.

The recall is expected to begin in late September and owners can contact Honda at 1-800-999-1009.