Recall - Convertible Top Cover
00-020February 4, 2000
Applies To:
2000 S2000 - From VIN JHMAP1...YT000049 thru JHMAP1...YT005001
Safety Recall: S2000 Convertible Top Cover
BACKGROUND
It is possible for a seat belt to be pinched between the seat-back and the convertible top cover. This pinching can occur when the convertible top cover is installed and the seat-back is reclined until the seat-back contacts the cover. If a seat belt is pinched and cannot move freely, normal movement of the seat's occupant can result in excessive slack in the shoulder portion of the seat belt.
CUSTOMER NOTIFICATION
A notification of this recall will be mailed to all owners of affected vehicles. An example of the first customer notification is included in this service bulletin.
CORRECTIVE ACTION
Exchange the convertible top cover that came with the vehicle for an improved cover. Return the original top cover to American Honda Warranty Parts Inspection.
PARTS INFORMATION
Convertible Top Cover:
P/N 86380-S2A-014RM, H/C 6398887
WARRANTY CLAIM INFORMATION
Operation Number: 814131
Flat Rate Time: 0.3 hour
Failed Part: P/N 86380-S2A-004
H/C 6244602
Defect Code: 757
Contention Code: K77
Template ID: 00-020A
Skill Level: Maintenance Technician
REPAIR PROCEDURE
1. Remove the original convertible top cover from the trunk.
2. Place the new convertible top cover in the trunk.
3. Center-punch a completion mark above the first character (J) of the engine compartment VIN.
4. Pack the original top cover in the replacement cover's box, and give it to the Parts Department for return to American Honda.
Example Owner's Letter
February 2000
Safety Recall: 52000 Convertible Top Cover
Dear S2000 Owner:
This notice is sent to you in accordance with requirements of the National Traffic and Motor Vehicle Safety Act.
What is the reason for this notice?
Honda Motor Co., Ltd. has determined that a defect relating to motor vehicle safety exists in 2000 model year S2000 automobiles because the seat belts may fail to retract under certain conditions.
When a larger driver or passenger adjusts the seat to one of the rearmost positions, it is possible for a seat belt to be pinched between the seat-back and the convertible top cover. This pinching can occur when the convertible top is down, the cover is installed, and the seat-back is reclined until it contacts the cover. If the seat belt is pinched and cannot move freely, normal movement of the occupant can cause excessive slack in the shoulder portion of the belt.
Excessive seat belt slack reduces the protective capability and effectiveness of the belts and increases the risk of injury to an occupant in a collision.
What should you do?
If you lower the top on your S2000, do not use the convertible top cover. An improved convertible top cover has been developed, and will soon be available. We will send you a second letter notifying you when you can go to your Honda dealer and exchange your current cover for this improved cover. The dealer will exchange the convertible top cover free of charge.
WARNING !
Do not use your S2000 convertible top cover until it has been replaced.
The original top cover may cause a seat belt to become pinched between the cover and the seat-back.
Excessive seat belt slack increases your chances of being killed or seriously hurt in a crash.
Who to contact if you experience problems.
If you are not satisfied with the service you receive from your Honda dealer, you may write to:
American Honda Motor Co., Inc.
Honda Consumer Affairs Dept.
Mail Stop 500-2N-7D
1919 Torrance Blvd.
Torrance, CA 90501-2746
If you believe that American Honda or the dealer has failed or is unable to remedy the defect in your car, without charge, within a reasonable period of time (60 days from the date you first contact the dealer for a repair appointment), you may submit a complaint to:
Administrator
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration
400 Seventh Street, SW
Washington, DC 20590
Or call the toll-free Auto Safety Hotline at (800)424-9393. Residents of Washington D.C. should call (202)366-0123.
What to do if you feel this notice is in error.
This notice was mailed to you according to the latest information available. If you no longer own this vehicle, or some information in this notice is incorrect, please fill out and return the enclosed, postage-paid Information Change Card. This will help us update our records.
If you have questions.
If you have questions about this notice, please call the
Honda Consumer Affairs Department at (800) 999-1009.
We apologize for any inconvenience this campaign may cause you.
Disclaimer