Mazda’s North American division has informed the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) of a safety defect that potentially affects 262,220 vehicles.
In a statement released earlier this week, the automaker said that “the software controlling the hydraulic valve clearance adjuster may operate improperly when transitioning from cylinder deactivation to full cylinder activation modes”.
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Thus, according to Mazda, the intake valve rocker arm could lose the initial position and make contact with internal engine parts, , leading to misfire, loss of power and/or a warning light coming on. In case the engine stalls, drivers won’t be able to fire it up again, which increases the risk of having an accident. Fortunately, the automaker is not aware of any accidents, injuries or deaths related to this issue.
The recall includes 224,240 CX-5s and 20,846 Mazda6s from the 2018-2019MY, alongside 14,483 units of the 2019 Mazda3, all of which were made in Japan. Another 2,651 Mazda3s, produced in Mexico, are also on the list.
Owners should hear from the Japanese firm soon, as the recall is expected to commence on or before August 26. In the meantime, dealers will be notified and instructed to reprogram the defective Power Control Module software. The fix will be carried out free of charge.
Concerned owners can reach out to Mazda directly at 1-800-222-5500 or contact the NHTSA’s Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236.
