Honda is recalling 1.5 million recent Accord models globally to prevent engine fires after discovering a defect with the vehicle's battery system.

The Japanese automaker said it had linked four reports of engine fires to the defect.

The recall covers 1.15 million cars in the U.S. from the 2013 through 2016 model-year.

From a publicity perspective it's bad timing for Honda, which is expected to reveal the redesigned 2018 Accord at an event Friday in Michigan.

The automaker said the defect on the older Accords is related to a 12-volt sensor that monitors the vehicle battery's state of charge. The sensor may not be sealed off from moisture or road salt, which could cause erosion or electrical shorting. That could trigger engine smoke or a fire.

The company will repair vehicles for free and notify owners when they can visit their local dealerships.

But it will take time because of the size of the recall. The company said that after inspection, dealers will apply a temporary repair if the battery sensor is in good condition.

After manufacturing enough parts to replace all the vehicles, every owner will get the permanent fix. It was not immediately clear how long that would take.

Follow USA TODAY reporter Nathan Bomey on Twitter @NathanBomey.