Owner-reported complaints naming the brake system, filed with NHTSA
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Reports naming service brakes, the antilock braking system, brake hoses, master cylinders or the parking brake. Every record below is an owner-reported complaint about the 2013 Honda Accord submitted to NHTSA — not a confirmed defect, not a recall and not a manufacturer bulletin. 115 reports on file name it.
Complaints are reports submitted by owners and drivers to NHTSA. They are not verified and do not establish that a defect exists.
The 25 most recent of 115, in the owner's own words
Honda Accord 9th Gen ABS/VSA Issues - DTC Code 81-20 /32-11. TPMS/ABS/VSA/Brake/Power Steering lights are on. Dealer claim is an ABS module issue and need replacement.
I was just driving normally when, completely out of nowhere, my whole dashboard suddenly lit up with a massive cluster of warning lights all at the exact same time. The power steering light, ABS light, traction control (VSA), tire pressure light, and the main brake light all popped up instantly. The most confusing part is that my steering and brakes actually feel completely fine. There is mechanically nothing wrong with how the steering turns or how the brakes stop, but the car is flashing these major warnings anyway. It feels like a total electronic malfunction or a computer glitch where the car is falsely screaming that there's a catastrophic failure when everything is physically working fine.
The ABS/Brake warning lights have lighted up on my instrument panel. It appears that the ABS/VSA module is bad. I do not see a recall for this from Honda but after doing further research, I have learned that this is a known problem for 9th generation Honda Accords. This leaves the vehicle without the anti-lock brake system working. Brakes still engage, but no ABS. This puts driver and any passengers at risk. The dealer acknowledges the known issue but wants over $3k for the repair. Faulty ABS modules are a great liability and put drivers and their passenger at risk of injury and/or death. I am asking that the NHTSA seriously look into this matter and make Honda take accountability for this know issue they are fully aware of.
So I am just driving and all these lights come on my dashboard about front collision warning failing and land departure failing and no traction control or power steering. It caused my car to slip in the rain since there is no ABS without traction control. I skid for a bit till I regained control and pulled over. This is such a common problem in this generation of cars there are 100 of YouTube videos and forums complaining about the ABS module failing this is a danger to others lives. How has this not been recalled as the brakes are so crucial?
No accident occurred. I just believe that the symptoms our car has are the exact same issues that caused a recall. I’m just relaying information to help set the parameters of the recall. Secondly I am curious why the service manager didn’t mention about a recall possibly concerning our car. Even though it isn’t in the window of the recall ( but shows all symptoms). Guess I’m feeling a little jaded with the way the service manager conveniently left out they didn’t have any parts for our car and they would have to order them. Anyway they knew I was driving the car home and they only had 6 hours to mess with it.
There were no warnings the power steering failed just as the previous recalls on the 2000 model Hondas did but there's no recall for this one the ABS has been affected there's no power steering and reduced engine power on and off a number of safety lights on dash the exact symptoms as described for number of Honda's before this one even the same year model but not this one 2013 Honda Accord vin [XXX] . I keep writing and promises if no one is taking notice to my complaint INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
All lights related to Tire pressure, Sterring control, Vehicle Stability Assist and ABS comes up in dash board. The ABS control module suddenly fails because of very bad design and manufacturing (just dry solderings!). Search EBAY, one can find so many offering services to repair this failed ABS control module. For replacement ot costs 3500. This looks like is common failure. Very dangerous to drive with that failed ABS control module. Why is this not in a recall yet?
ABS module failure on 2013 Honda Accord. FCW system failure, ABS failure, LDW failure along with brake light constantly on, also tire pressure sensor light on. Brakes have a softer feel when compressed. Diagnosed at independent repair shop as failure of the ABS module which is a circuit board issue with improperly soldered wire connections, something Honda should cover as the module dealer cost is about $3000 plus labor. Brake sensitivity and possible failure is a major concern and the vehicle is at only 116K miles.
Dash board lights indicated ABS system module malfunction, per Illinois Honda dealership diagnosis. ABS module failure also causes failure of forward collision warning system and lane departure warning system.
I have been having problems with many dashboard lights coming on at once. I got it checked out and I got ABS code 123 - 11 and code 81 - 20. This has been going on since the beginning of August 2025. This could lead to dangerous malfunctions, And is one of the most expensive things to repair. It is my understanding that many many vehicles between 2013 and 2017 in the Honda range I've been experiencing this to the point of where we need a recall.
To: National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) I am writing to formally submit a safety complaint regarding a serious issue I have encountered with the Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) manifold on my 2013 Honda Accord EX-L. This issue raises significant safety concerns and may warrant investigation for a potential recall. Recently, I experienced a failure in the ABS system that resulted in warning lights illuminating on the dashboard. Upon diagnostic inspection, it was confirmed that the ABS manifold (also referred to as the ABS modulator or hydraulic unit) had malfunctioned. This failure compromised the vehicle’s ability to maintain braking stability during emergency or slippery-road conditions. I understand that ABS systems are critical for preventing wheel lockup and maintaining vehicle control during braking. The failure of such a key component can severely increase the risk of a crash, especially under adverse driving conditions. Additional Concerns: This appears to be a known issue based on numerous similar complaints reported online by other 2013 - 2017 Honda owners. The cost of repair is substantial, with replacement estimates exceeding $1,500–$2,000. Despite the safety implications, Honda has not issued a recall or technical service bulletin to address this widespread problem. I respectfully request that NHTSA investigate whether this issue represents a systemic safety defect in the 2013 Honda Accord EX-L. The failure of a core safety system such as ABS warrants a thorough review to determine whether regulatory action or a manufacturer recall is appropriate. Thank you for your attention to this matter.
ABS failure
ABS (Automated Breaking System) is impacted and turns on lights on my dashboard failing the following while driving (Forward Collision Warning, Tire Pressure Light, Lane Departure Warning, Anti-skid system) It is avaliable for testing on request. Car does not stop as it is supposed to in urgent breaking due to ABS failure and puts driver and others on risk. My spouse already got in an accident due to this. Yes, after months of system failure on and off, I finally got my car inspected at a independent service center. Honda dealership costs more and are not ready to even look at it without paying, even though this seems to me a problem discussed online in many forums/sites. I called and emailed manufacturer and was turned down by requesting me to go to the Honda dealership repair which charge way more only to inspect only one issue. No other than the independent service center. Yes, there were dashboard lights of the above mentioned lights and I discussed this with Honda service team during my oil change and I was said this is driver assistance and not a safety issue. The root cause diagnosed by independent service center was ABS system.
After a driveshaft recall repair was performed on July 10, 2025, at Germain Honda of Dublin, my 2013 Honda Accord EX-L immediately began showing multiple safety system warning lights, including ABS, VSA, traction control, and check engine. These lights had never appeared prior to the repair. Diagnostic codes included: •VSA Solenoid Valve Malfunction •Modulator Control Unit Power Source Circuit (IG) Low Voltage These point directly to the ABS/VSA modulator, which is located near where the driveshaft repair was done. Despite the timing, Honda has refused to cover the repair, quoting me nearly $3,000. The dealer also cleared the codes before I arrived and then claimed they were “historic” with no documentation. I’ve confirmed my battery and alternator are in good condition, ruling out the common causes of voltage errors. I believe something was disturbed or left improperly connected during the recall service, resulting in a dangerous condition involving the vehicle’s braking and stability systems. This is a potential safety risk that arose after a manufacturer-issued recall repair, and I am requesting a formal investigation into similar cases if reported.
The ABS pump/motor, ABS modulator needs to be replaced. This is a pretty common issue with the Honda Accord from 2008-2017. Fixing this problem is expensive at the dealer. I believe Honda motors should have a recall about this situation because how pricy this is. Looking online for information and videos on youtube many people have been quoted 2,800 dollars and up to replace it. I just replace the ABS sensor driver side and ABS, Brake, Steering Wheel came out. These are coming on and off. Please I would like to get some help with this situation.
ABS module will breakdown pre-maturely. Warning lights on the dashboard will come on like the ABS, VSA and parking breaks while driving. So, the ABS and VSA is not working while driving that can cause the vehicle to lock up the breaks.
VSA ABS FCW EPS warning lights, according to Honda dealership it needs a VSA ABS module, these are thousands of dollars and there’s thousands and thousands of pissed off customers. This should be warranted. It looks like honda of Europe did warranty it. I’m not sure what’s going on in honda North America. It can cause the brake pedal to go soft, and is definitely a safety hazard
Very common problem it appears as there are several forum post from other accord owners 2013 and above that have all reported dash lights up with traction control, tire pressure, power steering, ABS and some instances Brake will illuminate on the dash board, and some have reported a combination of these lights or all of them. The culprit is a broken solder on the ABS module from my understanding and its something Honda is aware of but have not recalled. The part itself costs $1500, just for the part and does not include labor. This is a common issue that should be taken care of by honda as its a huge safety issue with the ABS, Traction control, power steering, tire pressure monitoring and brake not working when needed in an emergency situation. This is a huge safety risk that needs to be addressed. It also affects the value of the vehicle if not repaired.
VSA/ABS Module has gone bad. Loss of emergency braking
The contact owns a 2013 Honda Accord. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the contact stated the ABS warning light and several other unknown warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer; however, the contact was requested to pay a diagnostic test fee. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and a case was filed. The failure mileage was approximately 79,347.
MY ABS & all related braking lights on dash display pop up every now & then, on & off, & is not on permanently full time. Mechanic said it could be the module. I heard it last week on the radio about this Honda issue & said it was a safety & braking issue. I don’t see it on the recall list, but people with a 2013 Accord has many complaints about it on YouTube web & various searches. This should be a recall & what are we supposed to do about this safety defect?
I am reporting a critical safety issue with the Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) modulator in my 2013 Honda Accord Ex. The VSA modulator has failed, causing significant safety concerns, including erratic braking behavior, a complete loss of anti-lock braking (ABS) functionality, and compromised stability control. Only after avoiding near collision while driving on I5 freeway the failure illuminated various dashboard warning lights, such as the ABS light, VSA light, and brake system warning light. This failure has placed me, my passengers, and other road users at risk, especially with the stop and go traffic of rush hour. Luckily it was sunny clear weather because if there was even slight wet or slippery conditions I'm certain the harm would have been disastrous. -Known Technical Causes: Failure of internal solenoids or valves in the VSA modulator unit. Corrosion or damage to electronic components within the modulator. Malfunctioning sensors associated with the ABS and stability systems. -Repair Details: Replacement of the VSA modulator unit is often necessary. Cost of repair typically ranges between $2,000 and $3,000. Many owners report delays in repairs due to part availability. -Reports and Complaints: Numerous complaints can be found on forums, owner groups, and repair sites detailing identical failures in 2013–2017 Honda Accords. Commonly reported safety risks include increased stopping distances and difficulty maintaining control on slippery roads. Honda’s Response: Some owners report that Honda dealerships acknowledge the issue but do not offer repairs under warranty unless an extended warranty is in place. There is an already a recall for the VSA modulators for 2022 Accords. I believe this should be extended to their earlier models with the same issues.
While driving my 2013 Honda Accord sedan on the turnpike, I experienced a critical failure of the Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) modulator, which was later inspected and confirmed to be malfunctioning by a Honda service technician at South Motors Honda. This component is available for inspection upon request. As I was traveling at approximately 65 mph, the ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) malfunctioned, causing the brakes to lock up when I attempted to slow down for traffic ahead. This sudden loss of braking control put my safety and the safety of others at significant risk, as I nearly collided with the vehicle in front of me. The problem has been reproduced and confirmed by an independent service center. The vehicle has not been inspected by the manufacturer, police, or insurance representatives. Prior to the failure, several warning lamps, including the VSA, ABS, and BRAKE lights, illuminated on the dashboard. These warning lights first appeared about a week before the incident, but I was unable to get the vehicle serviced immediately due to scheduling constraints. Additionally, the Front Collision Warning system was not functioning, which further compromised my ability to avoid a potential accident. This malfunction was particularly concerning as it failed to alert me to the rapidly approaching vehicle ahead, exacerbating the dangerous situation caused by the ABS failure.
All the safety error lights come up on dash (ABS, steering control, tire pressure, stability control) all aluminate. Initially they would only come on when vehicle sat while running for more than a few min and once parked overnight they would not come back on. Now they are on 100% of the time and never go off. There a a ton of videos out there with a faulty ANS module. Honda is selling them for like $1400 part + labor. An entire industry has started to repair them and video showing the fault in wiring showing bad soldering joints where very thin wire is attached. My car has 95,500 miles on it.
Excessive Engine oil consumption 2-3 quarts between 5000 to 6000 oil changes. ABS Module failure causing all safety feature not working.
Higher-selling and older vehicles accumulate more reports. Counts are not failure rates and are not directly comparable between vehicles that sold in very different numbers.
Categories with enough reports to have a page of their own
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