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 with the wheel lug nuts, which secure 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, which could potentially cause the lug nuts to loosen.
Details of the Recall
If this happens and no immediate action is taken, the wheel may fall off. This poses a serious safety issue and increases the risk of a crash. Mazda said a rattling noise would occur before the wheel fell off, and drivers may feel shuddering in the steering wheel. Mazda discovered the issue in April after receiving a field report that a lug nut was coming loose.
The automaker also reported improving the assembly process to eliminate the gap between the parts, causing the problem. When the recall begins, technicians will tighten the lug nuts to prevent the issue from recurring. No replacement parts are needed. Mazda will notify owners by snail mail in early August. So far, no instances of wheels falling off cars have been reported, and there have been no reported accidents, injuries, or deaths resulting from this auto defect.
Recent Vehicle Recalls
Other recent recalls involve vehicle parts that might come loose or fall off. In October 2018, Toyota recalled hundreds of vehicles for rear wheels that could fall off. This problem was caused by axle-bearing bolts that were not tightened adequately underneath the vehicle.
More recently, Ford Motor Company recalled nearly 1.4 million Ford Fusion and Lincoln MKZ sedans in March 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 automaker said the bolt could come loose over time, resulting in wheel detachment and loss of steering control.
Auto Product Liability Issues
If you or a loved one has been injured due to 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 additional information about pursuing your legal rights.
