We’re not kidding: Mazda recalls 52,000 Mazda6 units because of spiders

2011 Mazda6
2011 Mazda6

Mazda announced a very interesting recall today. The Japanese automaker is recalling 52,000 Mazda6 sedans because yellow sac spiders are building their nests in part of the fuel system.

“A certain type of spider may weave a web in the evaporative canister vent line and this may cause a restriction of the line,” Mazda said in a letter to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

Mazda said that the evaporative canister vent line runs from a charcoal-filled canister that cleans air coming out of the gas tank. Restriction of the vent line can prevent air from getting into the tank as the gasoline is used, resulting in negative air pressure inside the tank. That could result in a fire.

There have been 20 some reported cases of spider infestation in the Mazda6 and all have been with 4-cylinder models.

To fix the issue, Mazda dealers will inspect and repair the fuel system of necessary. The will also install a spring to prevent spider intrusion.

– By: Omar Rana

Source: CNNMoney