Mazda is recalling nearly 200,000 of its Mazda3 compact cars and Mazda5 minivans due to a defect in the power steering system. Drivers could experience a sudden loss of assist, making it difficult to steer the vehicle and increasing the risk of a crash.
Vehicles manufactured between April 2, 2007, and Nov. 30, 2008, are included in the recall, Mazda says. You can check your car’s manufacture date on the sticker inside the driver-side doorjamb.
Mazda says it is having supply issues with the parts it needs to fix the issue, so the recall will be staggered, with some owners being notified on or before Sept. 15, another group later in September and a third group in February. Owners can contact Mazda at 800-222-5500 or the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration at 888-327-4236.