The problem
The radiator cap pressure relief valve release pressure is set too high. This can cause the coolant to reach temperatures that exceed the thermal design limits of some components of the coolant system. Should this occur, engine coolant can leak collect on top of the engine.
The risk
If engine coolant leaks onto the hot engine exhaust manifold from the top of the engine, an engine compartment fire can result.
The fix
Dealers will inspect the vehicles and if any vehicle exhibits coolant leakage or if the coolant level has dropped to the point where the coolant loss would be sufficient to trigger the coolant level warning system, components potentially subject to deterioration from overheating would be replaced. These parts include the water pump bearing housing, the water level sensor and radiator upper hose, the thermostat gasket, and all water hoses located above the engine. In addition, all vehicles in which those components are replaced would also have the cooling system and other systems that carry flammable liquids checked to make certain that engine overheating had not caused any problems in those systems. Any identified problems will be repaired. The radiator cap, filler cap, and filler cap body of all recalled vehicles will be replaced by newly designed parts.
Contacts
System: engine cooling system. Vehicle description: passenger vehicles. Note: if your vehicle is presented to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and the remedy is not provided within a reasonable time or the remedy does not correct the defect or noncompliance, please contact mazda service center at 1-800-222-5500. Also, contact the national highway traffic safety administration's auto safety hotline at 1-800-424-9393.
What to do
- Check your VIN. Enter it at nhtsa.gov/recalls - it shows whether this recall applies to your vehicle and whether the repair has been done.
- Call a dealer. Any authorized Mazda dealer will do the repair free, whether or not you bought the vehicle there. Quote campaign 94V094000.
- Ask about parts and a loaner. If parts aren't available yet, ask what to do in the meantime.
- Keep your paperwork. If you paid for this repair before the recall, you may be able to get reimbursed - here's how.