Japanese auto maker Mazda is issuing an order to recall more than 1.37 million older vehicles from model years 1990-1998. The recall was issued after it was discovered that ignition switches have the tendency to overheat and can catch fire.
Mazda released a statement on its official website saying, "Due to an excessive amount of grease at the contact points inside the ignition switch during production, as a result of time and use, the grease may carbonize and accumulate between the contact points, reducing the electrical insulation performance inside the switch."
Mazda added that it could lead to the switch becoming conductive and may overheat. Once it starts to overheat, it might melt some insulation that could cause smoke and in worst cases, fire.
The following cars are part of the recall:
-Mazda 323 model 1990-1995
-Mazda 626 model 1993-1998
-Mazda 929 model 1993-1995
-Mazda MPV model 1989-1998
-Mazda MX-6 model 1993-1997
-Mazda MX-3 model 1992-1993
-Mazda Protégé model 1990-1998
The recall will start in December in the United States. Mazda has yet to release the official details on how to fix the affected vehicles.
Mazda said that the problem has no direct effect on the overall operation and safety protocols of the cars. As of this writing, no injuries or accidents were attributed to the problem. Additionally, the issue will not occur when the car is turned off.
Globally, 13 incidents of fires were reported due to the problem but no injuries.
According to Consumerist, Mazda first received reports about short circuits in ignition switches in May 2001. However, the incidents were isolated in Japan.