Mazda3 and Mazda5 have been recalled due to a power steering issue. 08/19/2010
Mazda Motor Corporation is issuing a recall on thousands of units in the United States, Canada and Mexico, the Associated Press reports.
More than 315,000 2007-2009 models of the Mazda3 and Mazda5 have been recalled due to an issue with the power steering system, which plagued the same models in Japan last year. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has received 33 complaints from vehicle owners claiming a system failure, which has caused three crashes.
Rust forming in a high-pressure pipe of the system has been causing the power steering system to fail after the rust particles enter its pump, the automaker reported.
Mazda released a statement to NHTSA stating it “recognizes that there is no unreasonable safety risk” and will issue a voluntary recall to avoid any delays in rectifying the situation. Dealers will be able to replace the power steering pump and two high-pressure lines free of charge, according to AP.
“Be assured that our customers remain Mazda’s highest priority,” a spokesperson for the company said.
The NHTSA opened its own investigation of the issue this June and is currently reviewing the automaker’s recall documents to determine whether additional procedures must be taken.