There have been reports of injuries from the badge breaking during deployment of airbags.
Mazda could soon send a recall notice to owners of older Mazda3 sedans or hatchbacks in the United States. The recall is for first-generation models manufactured between 2004 and 2007. It’s due to a defect in the Mazda badge at the center of the steering column that could cause damage during driver airbag deployment.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) estimates that 260,915 vehicles could be at risk. This includes all Mazda3 body styles and trims during the affected model year. Mazda will notify owners of vehicles affected by the recall starting in August. This recall applies to vehicles sold in the US or US territories. This recall is not connected to the Takata airbag recall which affected more than 33 million vehicles.
What is the problem exactly? The prominent Mazda logo at the center of the steering-wheel on older Mazda3s was made from polyurethane. This material is commonly used in plastic products. The polyurethane can become fragile over time and the badge could crack if the driver’s airbag deploys. Mazda used a polyester material to make the logos in 2006, but it doesn’t have the same problem. NHTSA also stated that vehicles similar to those in the recall had used a better material for the cover of the airbag module. The issue appears to be limited to the Mazda3 model years.
A few injuries were reported as a result of the defective logo. All incidents are attributed to accidents occurring outside of the USA, the first being reported in 2015. Two lawsuits based in the USA were filed regarding this problem, but no incidents are mentioned.
It’s easy. Mazda will replace the steering wheel emblem using a different material. Mazda dealers will replace the steering wheel emblem at no cost as it is a recall.