— Mazda is recalling about 2.2 million vehicles worldwide to repair problems with rear hatches (lift gates) that can fail to stay open, possibly causing serious injuries to anyone leaning into the vehicles.
Mazda says at least 759,000 of the following recalled vehicles are in the U.S. and Canada.
- 2010-2013 Mazda3
- 2012-2015 Mazda5
- 2013-2016 Mazda CX-5
- 2016 Mazda CX-3
Mazda says the vehicles don't have enough of a corrosion protective coating on the ends of the external cylinders of the rear lift gate gas supports. Without enough corrosion protection, the dampers can be affected by water containing road salt and cause the dampers to break.
This leaves a lift gate unable to stay up when opened, something that can happen suddenly and cause the hatch to fall. Although it would be easy for someone to suffer injuries, Mazda says there are no reports of accidents or injuries related to the dampers.
Mazda dealers will replace both lift gate supports but parts are not currently available. Mazda will send interim notifications to owners beginning November 1, 2016, and will mail a second notice when parts are available.
The recalls were announced near the same time Mazda reported U.S. auto sales in August represented a decrease of 12.8 percent versus last year.
Owners may contact Mazda at 800-222-5500 and refer to recall number 9916H.
Read complaints submitted to CarComplaints.com about the recalled vehicles: