Mazda recall triggered by yellow sac spider nesting

Mazda Recalls 65,000 Cars

A Mazda recall involving 65,000 cars was issued after a fire risk was noted due to yellow sac spider nesting.

The spider, common in the United States, is said to be attracted to the smell of gasoline. Mazda said the creatures can weave webs in vent lines that can create pressure in the fuel tank. The pressure build-up can then trigger a fire.

In a letter to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, Mazda said, "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 6 models with 4-cylinder engines seem to be the only type affected. All 20 reports so far have involved the same model. About 50,000 cars in the U.S. and 15,000 more in Canada, Puerto Rico and Mexico are affected by the Mazda recall.

There have been no fires or injuries reported because of the yellow sac spider infestation. Mazda is unable to fully explain why the cars have become a favorite for the creatures.

"Perhaps yellow sac spiders like to go 'Zoom-Zoom?" company spokesman Jeremy Barnes quipped, referring to Mazda's slogan.

The company will be notifying owners of the affected cars starting this month. Dealers will inspect the fuel system and will repair it for leaks or damage related to the spiders. The vent line will be cleaned and mechanics will be installing a spring device to prevent spiders from crawling back inside. Mazda 6 vehicles manufactured from April 2008 and February 2010 are affected by the Mazda recall.

Posted by Sophia Andrews on Friday March 04 2011, 5:00 AM EST. Ref: CNN. All trademarks acknowledged. Filed under Featured News, Travel. Comments and Trackbacks closed. Follow responses: RSS 2.0