Spider Web Threat Triggers Mazda6 Recall

Mazda North America Operations is recalling 42,000 2010-2012 model-year Mazda6 vehicles so that dealers can take steps to protect the fuel tank from a pesky pest – spiders.

If spiders weave webs in the evaporative canister vent hose, the resulting blockage might cause the fuel tank to have an excessive amount of negative pressure. This, in turn, could cause the fuel tank to crack and leak fuel, posing a fire risk, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports.

The recall affects Mazda6 cars manufactured from Sept. 14, 2009, through May 2, 2011, and equipped with a 2.5L engine.

To resolve the problem, Mazda dealers will reprogram the powertrain control module and inspect and clean the canister vent line. If they find a spider web in the line, they will replace the fuel tank and check valve on the canister vent line.

Dealers will complete these repairs free of charge. The recall is expected to begin this month.

Vehicle owners can reach Mazda at 1-800-222-5500. The automaker's recall number for this campaign is 7214C.