“Did you hear the one about the Honda…”

Seems that Honda is at it again – recalling more vehicles.  Not too long ago Honda recalled 2005-2010 Accord, 2007-2010 CR-V, and 2005-2008 Element vehicles.  All of the recalled vehicles had a problem with a bearing race.  This time, Honda is recalling 2006 CR-V vehicles for a power window switch that can cause a fire.  Honda is also recalling 2011 CR-Z vehicles with manual transmissions.  These vehicles are apparently hybrid vehicles that contain a problem with the engine control unit (ECU).  Under certain conditions, the ECU can cause the motor to move the vehicle in the opposite direction of the selected gear.  In other words, if the car is in drive, it can go backward.  According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, Honda has announced recalls for the last two months in a row.  I’m already wondering if October will make three.  What’s the problem Honda?  I’ve asked this question before: How is it that with all the experience that car makers have had  building cars,  recall problems still occur?  The answer is that none of the automakers have a good grasp on the what it takes to make electronics and machines work together.