The Auto Writer

Soon after its release, the NHTSA has issued a recall for the next gen Mazda3...ouch!

I was in L.A. last fall when Mazda rolled out the 2010 Mazda3, a very popular sport compact that has sold quite well for the Japanese automaker. Already in showrooms, the all new Mazda3 has been well received by fans and critics alike.

Unfortunately, the Mazda3 has also been slapped with its very first recall.

Mazda Recall No. 5409D

According to the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA), 25,400 copies of the Mazda3 are subject to a recall due to a potential electrical problem.

Apparently, a clearance between the engine harness and the housing of the the starter motor may be insufficient. Because of this problem, the covering of the harness may be damaged through vibration while the car is being driven which may cause a short-circuit between certain harness wires and the starter housing.

As a result, the problem just might result in an engine control malfunction and/or poor shift quality. In other words, you could lose control of the car should a fuse blow out, increasing the risk of a crash.

Contact Mazda For More Information

If you own the affected model, you can contact Mazda at 1-800-222-5500 for additional information.

Mazda says that dealers will have the engine harness inspected and will add a protector clip on the affected section of the harness and, if necessary, the harness will be repaired. As with all such recalls, the work performed will be done at the manufacturer’s expense with the first recalls set to begin on May 6, 2009.

Finally, you can call the Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or visit http://www.safercar.gov/ for detailed information about the recall. The website has plenty of information about other vehicle recalls as well as safety tips such as rollover protection and how to protect yourself if riding in a passenger van.

Zoom Zoom!

Photo credit: Mazda USA