Alternator problem prompts Mazda recall

The engine could stall, increasing the risk of a crash

By James Limbach Image may be NSFW.
Clik here to view. of ConsumerAffairs

Image may be NSFW.
Clik here to view.Mazda North America Operations is recalling 5,700 model year 2014 Mazda3 vehicles manufactured June 12, 2013, through December 18, 2013; and model year 2014-2015 Mazda6 vehicles manufactured May 20, 2013, through December 4, 2013 -- both equipped with a 2.5L engine and a regenerative engine braking system.

When the affected vehicles are driven in heavy rain or in deep puddles, the alternator belt may slip causing the Power Control module (PCM) to incorrectly assume failure of the charging system.

Once the PCM assumes that the charging system has failed, the vehicle will stop charging and could result in poor acceleration, loss of steering assist and windshield wiper operation, and a possible engine stall, increasing the risk of a crash.

Mazda will notify owners, and dealers will reprogram the PCM with updated software, free of charge. The recall is expected to being in late April 2014.

Owners may contact Mazda at 1-800-222-5500. Mazda's number for this recall is 7314D.