Mazda Recalls 1989-1998 Vehicles for Ignition Switch Fire Risk
Mazda is recalling approximately 1.37 million vehicles from 1989-1998 because grease in the ignition switch may overheat and cause a fire. Owners should contact a dealer for a free replacement.
What this means for you
Our assessment, not the agency’s: severity 4/5 (Severe).
The hazard poses a serious risk of illness, injury, or structural failure. Stop using the product immediately and contact the manufacturer for a refund or repair.
Our severity reasoning: The recall involves a structural vehicle defect (ignition switch) with a stated consequence of increased fire risk, which aligns with the rubric criteria for a score of 4 (Severe).
Plain-English summary
Mazda North American Operations is recalling certain model year 1989-1998 MPV, 1990-1995 323, 1990-1998 Protege, 1992-1993 MX-3, 1993-1995 929, 1993-1997 MX-6, and 1993-1998 626 vehicles. The recall covers approximately 1,368,500 units.
The defect involves grease applied to the contact points inside the ignition switch, which may become conductive and overheat. If the ignition switch overheats, there is an increased risk of a fire.
Mazda will notify owners, and dealers will replace the ignition switch free of charge. The recall began on December 17, 2015. Owners may contact Mazda Customer Experience Center at 1-800-222-5500, option #6, or the NHTSA Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236.
The recalled product
- Product
- MAZDA MPV, 626, 323, MX3
- Brand
- MAZDA
- Manufacturer
- Mazda North American Operations
- Hazard
- Affected units
- 1,368,500
Is your product affected?
Check your packaging against the codes below. If any of them match, the product is part of this recall.
Model numbers (7)
- MPV
- 626
- 323
- MX3
- PROTEGE
- 929
- MX-6
Distribution
Distributed nationwide across the United States.
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