Mazda6 and Tribute on NHTSA December 2003 Recall List
Mazda (North America), Inc.
Models: Mazda Tribute
Year: 2001
Number Potentially Involved: 49,000
Dates of Manufacture: April 2000 – May 2001
Defect: On certain sport utility vehicles, a post
within
the safety belt buckle covers could fracture, which could
affect latch function,
resulting in either a "no latch" or "partial latch" condition.
In the "partial
latch" condition, the buckle tongue can be inserted into the
buckle and appear
to be engaged, but will release from the buckle without the
push button being
depressed when a relatively low load is applied, such as when
an occupant
moves slightly in the seat. In the event of a crash, the seat
occupant may
not be properly restrained, increasing the risk of injury.
Remedy: Dealers will have the driver and front
passenger safety
belt buckle cover removed and replaced with a newly designed
service buckle
cover. The manufacturer has reported that owner notification is
expected
to begin during February 2004. Owners may contact Mazda at
1-800-222-5500.
Mazda (North America), Inc.
Models: Mazda Mazda6
Year: 2003
Number Potentially Involved: 56,700
Dates of Manufacture: October 2002 – August 2003
Defect: On certain passenger vehicles, the fuel sender
unit (FSU) may have been improperly installed in the fuel tank,
producing
an inadequate seal, and fuel may leak. A fire could occur in
the presence
of an ignition source.
Remedy: Dealers will inspect the top of the fuel tank,
and
if necessary, repair or replace it. The manufacturer has
reported that owner
notification is expected to begin during February 2004. Owners
may contact Mazda
at 1-800-222-5500.