Losing braking power can be deadly. If you own an Acura sedan, you’ll want to pay attention to this recall. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports that Honda is recalling 70,658 vehicles over a potential brake fluid leak. The issue could significantly reduce braking power and increase crash risk. Here are the model years affected:

• 2016–2020 Acura ILX

Why the braking system can fail

Here’s how it works. Your vehicle’s brakes rely on a hydraulic system. When you press the pedal, a plunger in the master cylinder forces brake fluid through lines to each wheel. That pressure activates the brakes and slows the vehicle.

Honda says contaminated brake fluid from the factory can prematurely wear a seal inside the master cylinder. The result is an internal leak.

There may be no fluid on the ground. But braking power can drop sharply.

Honda estimates just 0.3% of the recalled vehicles will experience the defect. Even so, dealerships will inspect every affected car. They will repair any faulty components free of charge.

Curious whether your vehicle is affected? You can contact your local dealership or enter your VIN at NHTSA.gov.