subject: Car Recalls Now Include Spiders as Mazda Recalls More Than 65,000 Vehicles for Possible Infestation [print this page] Car Recalls Now Include Spiders as Mazda Recalls More Than 65,000 Vehicles for Possible Infestation
DETROIT, M.I. Car recalls are a normal part of the auto industry, it seems, as large and small automakers announce voluntary recalls with different defects almost daily. Different problems such as airbags that deploy without warning or pedals that are staying in the accelerator position for too long, but Mazda has a current recall that may be one of the most unique.
[Rewind: Ford F150 MI Owners Worry Driver Side Airbags May Deploy Without Warning; Recall Announced]
Mazda received reports back in mid to late 2009 that described fuel leakage from the fuel tank. After a certified technician inspected the vehicle there seemed to be a crack on the top side of the fuel tank. No cause was identified as the first incident did not have traces. Once it was reported again, it was then determined what was causing the problem: a spider and its web.
Not many car recalls have been reported due infestation of any kind, and Mazda is even at a loss as to why the spider, which has been identified as a Yellow Sac spider, would choose the Mazda vehicle as no region has been specified.
The vehicles that are being recalled include 52,000 Mazda6 vehicles from 2009-2010 in the U.S. as well as another 15,000 vehicles in Canada, Mexico and Puerto Rico.
Mazda says the problem is when the spider enters the vent that is connected to the fuel tank system and spins a web, the web can clog up the tank's ventilation, resulting in pressure added to the fuel tank. This pressure can cause the tank to crack, which will ultimately create a fuel leakage. Serious consequences to the leak include risk of a fire.
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Any owner who may be impacted by the car recalls on the Mazda6 will be notified by mid-March. Owners should visit any Mazda dealership where the technicians will inspect and clean up the vent and install a spring to prevent any spiders from entering the vent line. Owners may contact Mazda at 800-222-5500.
