Mazda is recalling 25,003 (24,865 in the US) new Mazda 3s for a defect in wheel lug nuts. 16,555 of the recalled autos are still on dealer lots with the auto maker halting deliveries until the recall has been completed. The recall affects cars built between September 25, 2018, and May 3, 2019.
The issue is a manufacturing defect that created a partial gap between the hub bolts and the hub flange. Because of the potential gap, the lug nuts can come loose and fall off during normal driving, with continued driving possibly causing the wheel itself to come off, leading to a loss of control. Drivers should hear a rattling noise the wheel detachment would happen.
Mazda say no incidents, accidents or injuries have been recorded linked to the issue.
