Honda is expanding an already-announced recall of select 2001 to 2003 Honda and Acura models. At issue is the driver’s airbag inflator, which may deploy with too much force, rupturing the inflator casing and resulting in increased risk of injury.

Acura models affected by this recall include the 2002 and 2003 model year 3.2 TL, and the 2003 3.2 CL. Also affected are 640 Honda and Acura vehicles that may have received defective parts following a collision repair; since the specific vehicles can’t be positively identified, Honda will recall and inspect some 603,000 vehicles.

Owners of affected vehicles will be notified by mail when the recall begins in late December. Acura dealers will inspect the driver’s airbag system and replace components as necessary, and the company is in the process of setting up a hotline to advise customers if their particular model is part of the recall.

Beginning in late December, Acura owners can call (800) 382-2238, then select option 4 to determine if their vehicle is included. Owners will also be able to enter their Vehicle Identification Number on a dedicated website, www.recalls.acura.com, to determine if further action is required.