Mazda SA Announces Recall due to Defective Takata Airbag Inflators

Are you a Mazda2, Mazda6 or Mazda RX-8 owner? You need to read this.

If you own a Mazda2, Mazda6 or a Mazda RX-8 from 2003 onwards, Mazda urges you to contact your nearest dealership, if the VIN numbers start with MM6DE, JM6GG and JMZSE.  These vehicles are being recalled due to defective airbag inflators that can cause serious injuries by deploying incorrectly. Fortunately we’ve had no such incidents locally, but Mazda prefers to play it safe.

The Japanese automaker is currently recalling 19 000 vehicles in Mzansi, as they extend their global recall to cover a wider manufacturing period. This comes after investigations in Japan and North America surrounding three different types of Takata airbag inflators that may be flawed. When the airbag explodes, the shrapnel from the ruptured inflator is responsible for injuring the passenger(s). There have been over 180 injuries worldwide and 17 deaths which have been connected with these exploding inflators.  Other affected brands include Nissan Motor Co. and Ford Motor Co.

Ford South Africa have responded by saying that their test data doesn’t suggest any issues and that there have not been any local incidents. As such, a recall from Ford has not been implemented.

Nissan South Africa says that some Nissan TIIDAs may be affected. The recall is voluntary and VIN numbers are still to be released. If you have concerns, please contact Nissan Customer Support Centre on 0800 647 726 or email csc@nissan.co.za . It is advised to take your TIIDA to your local Nissan dealership for evaluation, and if needed, it will be fixed at no cost.

Mazda owners can get in touch with the  Mazda Dealership Network or Mazda SA’s Customer Care Centre on 0860 069 700 or email customercare@mazda.co.za .