The latest recall is expected to be limited to Mazda6 sedans with 2010 to 2012 model years and outfitted with 2.5-liter engines, a group which includes approximately 42,000 vehicles in the US market.
The company suggests spiders are weaving webs that effectively block the evaporative canister vent lines, causing problems with fuel-tank pressure. In some cases, the tanks are vulnerable to cracking and leaking fuel, though the company has yet to associate the issue with any fires or accidents.
Mazda believes it can prevent blockages from cracking tanks by reprogramming the software that controls the emission control system. Vehicles will also be inspected for existing webs and fuel tank cracks.
Earlier reports have suggested the issue is caused by “yellow sac spiders,” which may be attracted to the smell of gasoline vapors. The problems were not limited to Mazda’s fleet, however, with reports of similar blockages in Honda and Hyundai models.
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