In the event of a crash, the seat occupant may not be properly restrained, increasing the risk of injury.

Seat Belts — Front — Buckle Assembly

Date Announced
DEC 15, 2003
Vehicles Affected
49,000
Mazda Recall #
1503L
NHTSA Campaign #
03V515000
Summary
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.
Actions
Dealers will have the driver and front passenger safety belt buckle cover removed and replaced with a newly designed service buckle cover. Owner notification began February 5, 2004. Owners should contact Mazda at 1-800-222-5500.
Documents (8)