Mazda is recalling 2.2 million hatchbacks and crossovers around the world to deal with a corrosion issue on the vehicles’ hatchgates.
The recall affects Mazda3 Sport models (from model years 2010-2013), Mazda5 microvans (2012-15), CX-5 compact crossovers (2013-16) and CX-3 sub-compact crossovers from 2016.
The issue is with the lift-gate gas strut dampers (which aid in lifting the door and keep it up until loading is done and the user pulls it down). Mazda has identified that insufficient corrosion protection has been applied to the ends of the cylinders, which means they could corrode and break if they are compromised by moisture.
If that were to happen, the gate may not be able to stay open or they could even come crashing down on people loading up the cargo area, resulting in injury.
Of the 2.2 million worldwide, 183,808 are reportedly affected in Canada and another 575,381 vehicles are in the US.
Mazda is not aware of any injuries or incidents related to the issue.
The company says it will start calling vehicles back in October, advising owners to return their vehicles to dealerships to have both rear struts replaced.