Mazda has issued an auto defect recall for about 25,000 2019 Mazda3 hatchbacks and sedans. According to news reports, the vehicles were manufactured between Sept. 25, 2018 and April 19, 2019. The problem is in the wheel lug nuts, which are responsible for securing the car’s wheels to the car itself. Mazda said a manufacturing error caused a gap between the hub bolt head and a flange in the hub bearing assembly. This could potentially lead to the lug nuts loosening.
Details of the Recall
If this happens and no immediate action is taken, the wheel may fall off. Needless to say, this poses a serious safety issue and increases the risk of a crash. Mazda said a rattling noise will occur before the wheel falls off, and that drivers will possibly feel some shuddering in the steering wheel. Mazda discovered the issue in April after receiving a field report of a lug nut coming loose.
The automaker also said the assembly process was improved to eliminate the gap between the parts that was causing the problem. When the recall begins, technicians will tighten the lug nuts to eliminate the gap between the parts and prevent the issue from recurring. No replacement parts are needed. Mazda will notify owners in early August via snail mail. So far, no instances of wheels falling off cars have been reported. There have been no reported accidents, injuries or deaths resulting from this auto defect.
Recent Vehicle Recalls
There have been other recent recalls involving vehicle parts that might come loose or fall off. Back in October 2018, Toyota recalled hundreds of vehicles for rear wheels that could fall off. This problem was caused by axle-bearing bolts under the car that were not properly tightened.
More recently in March Ford Motor Company recalled nearly 1.4 million Ford Fusion and Lincoln MKZ sedans because loose bolts could cause the steering wheel to come off. The automaker said two accidents and one injury were linked to the problem, which federal regulators began investigating in October. The bolt could come loose over time resulting in wheel detachment and loss of steering control, the automaker said.
Auto Product Liability Issues
If you or a loved one has been injured as the result of a defective auto, you may be able to seek compensation for the injuries, damages and losses you have suffered. An experienced auto defect lawyer will be able to provide you with more information about pursuing your legal rights.
