Last Updated on April 19, 2024
Some years ago the Takata airbag recall was announced and it was a big deal, effecting upwards of 67 million cars. Still today even, manufacturers are continuing to service this recall. The severity of the Takata airbag recall was not to be taken lightly, as these airbags could allegedly cause injuries when deployed or even death in some instances. Realize, it only takes an impact at 16mph to deploy an airbag.
With Mazda’s recent steering wheel logo recall for all 2004-2007 Mazda3’s, this might sound like one recall you can put off, but in reality it’s a serious matter.
If you own a 2004-2007 Mazda3, here’s what you need to know
The Mazda3 steering wheel logo recall may sound like a low priority recall, but it’s actually a very serious case with serious consequences.
Consider that these cars are 14-17 years old, and the materials used to create the steering wheel logo have likely become brittle from changes of temperature and sunlight.
This means the actual materials have become brittle, and when the airbag is deployed the steering wheel logo does not have the ability to flex, thus breaking into fragments, sending these pieces throughout the vehicle and potentially causing serious injury.
Why Mazda3 owners should act quickly to get this repair
Consider the entire process of an airbag deployment completes on average of 0.120 seconds. The airbag’s hard case is made of strong material, and designed to not fracture and send shrapnel towards you.
As a visual, imagine airbag deployment action similar to a time lapse of a blooming rose, the cover case splits along designed weakness lines and opens wide to allow the bag to come out.
Now imagine plastic fragments from the steering wheel logo shattering and violently projected into the air at a speed equivalent to a blink of an eye. You can now understand the urgency of this recall.
Reported Injuries
To date Mazda has received 10 reports of injuries, all of which have been from outside the U.S. However the automaker has received notice of two U.S. lawsuits alleging injury tied to the defect.
Quick Takeaways:
- Vehicles recalled: 2004-2007 Mazda3 cars built from June 24, 2003, to June 22, 2006.
- NHTSA campaign number: 21V-494. Mazda’s number for this recall is 4921G.
- The problem: The plastic logo affixed to the steering wheel can become brittle over time and may project fragments into the vehicle interior during an airbag deployment.
- The fix: Dealerships will replace the steering wheel airbag cover with a new one for free. There is no change needed to the airbag itself.
- How to contact the manufacturer: Owners questions may be directed to Mazda customer service at 1-800-222-5500.
Mazda dealers are ready to remedy this recall, so if you own a 2004-2007 Mazda3, please contact your local Mazda dealer to schedule your appointment.
Finder and reporter of automotive news & recalls. Emily is a professional writer who has covered various industries such as law, automotive, and mobility. She enjoys spending time with her family and improving her photography skills. While she loves writing, Emily’s true passion lies in helping others.
