Nearly 60,000 Mazda 6s Recalled For Potential Power Steering Issues

Mazda announced a recall of around 60,000 Mazda 6 sedans in the U.S. and Canada, The Detroit News reports. Improper welding may cause a wire shortage that will disable power steering. Debris left during the welding process can cause wires to rub together, potentially disabling the airbag.

The recall affects 2015 and 2016 Mazda 6s. Dealers will install a protective shield or pad under the seat to protect the wires from rubbing against each other. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s recall document reads:

In this condition, multiple malfunction indicator lights will illuminate and vehicle may experience a loss of power steering assist, but it is still possible to control the vehicle and/or take evasive action. The air bags may be deactivated (non-functional) and not deploy if the vehicle experiences an accident which would normally warrant an air bag deployment. Mazda has decided to conduct a voluntary safety recall although the air bag warning light illumination is in full compliance with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards.

Although no accidents from power steering loss have been reported, Mazda will notify owners if their car is covered by the recall.

Full documentation can be found here.