Honda recalling 50,000 cars due to airbag problem

TORONTO - Honda is recalling 50,000 cars in Canada and almost 400,000 in the United States because of an airbag problem.

The automaker is expanding a recall that was issued last November.

Honda says the driver's steering wheel-mounted airbag inflator in some sedans can rupture because of too much pressure, causing metal fragments to shoot through the airbag and possibly hitting occupants.

The automaker says one fatality and a number of injuries have been linked to the defect.

In Canada, the expanded recall covers certain 2001 and 2002 Accords, Civics, and Acura ELs, as well as a small number of 2002 and 2003 Acura TLs.

Honda says it will contact affected customers, and replace the airbag free of charge.