2015-2016 Mazda 3 Recalled due to Fuel Tank Issues; No Malaysian Vehicle Affected

Kuala Lumpur: Mazda is currently facing a stop sale and a recall of around 14,270 Mazda 3 sedans and hatchbacks in the US. The concerned models are of 2015-2016 batch with build dates between 21 May 2015 and 24 August 2015. the recall has been made due to a defective fuel shut-off valve in the car's fuel tank. This valve can allow gasoline to move from the tank and fill the charcoal emissions canister. Further, it could result into a leak if too much fuel enters and, as a result, there could be a risk of possible fire. Moreover, the engine might stall as well.

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Mazda North America would be contacting the affected owners to bring in their Mazda 3 as soon as possible to have the fuel tank and the faulty valve replaced. Those concerned can also call Mazda roadside assistance to have their vehicles delivered to service centres. Dealers too will inspect the vehicles and if a problem would be found, they would replace the fuel tank and charcoal emissions canister. During the downtime, customers will also get a free rental or loaner car. Further, Mazda expects to begin repairing these models sometime this month. Till now, there have been no reports of accidents or injuries linked to the recall.

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National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) said in its recall summary, “If enough fuel enters the emission system, it may leak out onto the ground or result in an engine stall. A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source increases the risk of a fire. An engine that stalls increases the risk of a crash”. The recall concerns only those in the US, so Malaysian Mazda 3 owners need not worry about it. The official distributor Bermaz Motor has also confirmed about Malaysian models being safe.