Mazda recall includes NZ models

An international recall of Mazda models will affect New Zealand drivers, a spokesperson confirmed yesterday. The Mazda spokesperson told news outlet Newshub that they did not yet have any information on what models will be recalled and how many New Zealand owners will be affected, and the company will wait for more official information from their Japanese manufacturer before an official announcement is made. Mazda first issued a recall in the US last week, saying the seats can change angles suddenly, making the vehicles hard to drive. 174,000 America cars are affected. On Monday, Mazda Australia released a notice saying at least three models will be recalled. The seat defect is found in 48,042 Mazda2 vehicles, 60,104 Mazda3’s, and 16,535 Mazda6 models bought between September 2007 and March 2012. "On the driver's seat of the affected vehicles, it is possible that the seat height adjustment lifter link may crack, or the lifter link retaining nuts may separate," the report stated. Drivers may be alerted to the defect if they hear an unusual rattling in their seats. Once Mazda New Zealand has released further information regarding defective models, owners can check if their cars affected via their vehicle identification number on the Mazda website. Affected vehicles will be inspected and repaired free of charge.