WASHINGTON — Mazda is recalling 39,600 B-Series trucks from model years 1995-'97 and 2001-'03 that are equipped with Texas Instruments' cruise control deactivation switch and/or antilock brake systems because a vehicle fire could occur, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. This is the latest in Ford's record recall of up to 14 million vehicles.
Last month, Ford added 4.5 million vehicles to its largest U.S. recall in history. The vehicles in the October 2009 recall included the Ford Ranger, which has a common design with the Mazda B-Series truck.
"A component of the cruise control deactivation switch may deteriorate over time and develop a leak," said NHTSA in its recalls summary of the Mazda B-Series. "This occurrence could cause the switch to overheat, smoke or burn, which could result in an under-hood fire. A vehicle fire could occur with or without the engine running."
The Mazda B-Series vehicles include 1995-'97 models with the speed control system, 2001 models without the speed control system and with antilock brakes, 2002 models without the speed control system and with antilock brakes and 2003 models with and without the speed control system, NHTSA said.
In documentation filed with the federal government, Ford said "no allegations of fire have been identified," regarding the B-Series truck recall.
Mazda said it will begin the recall on November 13. Dealers will install a universal fused jumper harness on the cruise control deactivation switch for free. Owners may contact Mazda at 800-222-5500.
The cruise-control problem came to light over a decade ago, when the federal government looked into complaints of engine compartment fires.
Inside Line says: If you own one of the aforementioned B-Series trucks, have it checked out ASAP by your dealer. — Anita Lienert, Correspondent
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mikedrud says:
03:29 PM, 11/03/2009
Ford is doing very well, yet they have the largest vehicle recall in history?