Recall 10V374000: Loss Power Steering Assist

VEHICLE MAKE/MODEL: MODEL YEAR(S):

Mazda/Mazda3 2007-2009

Mazda/Mazda5 2007-2009

MANUFACTURER: Mazda Motor Corp.

MFR'S REPORT DATE: August 12, 2010

NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER: 10V374000

NHTSA ACTION NUMBER: PE10021

COMPONENT: Steering: Electric Power Assist System

POTENTIAL NUMBER OF UNITS AFFECTED: 215000

SUMMARY:
Mazda is recalling certain model year 2007-2009 Mazda3 and Mazda5 vehicles manufactured from April 2, 2007 through November 30, 2008. These vehicles may have a condition in which a sudden loss of power steering assist could occur at any time while driving the vehicle.

CONSEQUENCE:
Power steering assist is suddenly lost reducing the driver's ability to steer the vehicle as typically expected, and increasing the risk of a crash.

REMEDY:
Due to short supply of parts, the first phase of mailing of owner notification letters will begin on or before September 15, 2010 and the second phase mailing will begin in September 2010 and be completed in February 2011. Owners may contact Mazda Customer Assistance Center at 1-800-222-5500.

NOTES:
Owners may also contact The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to http://www.safercar.gov.