Mazda Recalls Tribute for Power Steering Assist

Mazda is recalling 33,000 2008-2011 model-year Tribute compact SUVs because of potential problems with the power steering assist, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports.

In these vehicles, the steering torque sensor might not properly detect driver steering input. As a result, the system could remove the electric power steering (EPS) assist.

To resolve the problem, Mazda dealers will update software for the power steering control module (PSCM) and the instrument cluster module. If a vehicle shows a history of torque sensor signal loss or fault codes relating to the PSCM, dealer mechanics will replace the affected components. There will be no charge for this work.

The recall is expected to begin in July.

Vehicle owners can reach Mazda at 1-248-295-7859. Mazda's number for this recall is 7614E.

Mazda ceased production of the Tribute after the 2011 model year.