U.S. investigating Honda for not issuing recalls

DETROIT - Federal regulators are investigating whether Honda (HMC) failed to report deaths and injuries that occurred in its vehicles.

Federal law requires automakers to submit quarterly reports on deaths and injuries, warranty claims and other incidents. Legal claims alleging that a defect caused a death or injury must also be reported.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration says Honda may have failed to report incidents related to Takata airbags as well as other defective parts. Honda has recalled more than 5 million vehicles in the U.S. to fix their airbags, which could injure occupants if they deploy after a crash.

Honda could face fines of up to $35 million if NHTSA finds it failed to report the incidents.

A message seeking comment was left with Honda.