Mazda has confirmed it will recall its 2014 Mazda 3 and 2014-'15 Mazda 6 vehicles because charging system shutdown could cause engines to stall in affected vehicles.
Affected models are equipped with regenerative engine braking systems and a 2.5-liter engine, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
"When driving the affected vehicles in heavy rain or in deep puddles, the alternator belt may slip, causing the Power Control module (PCM) to incorrectly assume failure of the charging system," said NHTSA in its summary. "Once the PCM assumes that the charging system has failed, the vehicle will stop charging and could result in poor acceleration, loss of steering assist and windshield wiper operation, and a possible engine stall, increasing the risk of a crash."
No injuries or crashes linked to the recall have been reported yet, according to Jeremy Barnes, a Mazda spokesman, who spoke with Edmunds about the issue.
Two reports of the defect were received by the company from the U.S., according to documents filed with the federal government.
Affected Mazda 3s were manufactured from June 12, 2013 through December 18, 2013. The affected Mazda 6s were manufactured from May 20, 2013 through December 4, 2013, according to Mazda.
Mazda dealers are being instructed to reprogram the Power Control module with updated software to correct the problem. If an issue is found, repairs will be completed free of charge.
The recall will begin later on this month, according to the automaker.
Owners with more questions can reach Mazda at 1-800-222-5500.
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