Mazda · Canada · High
Mazda MAZDA3, MAZDA5: Steering
Affects Mazda MAZDA3, MAZDA5 · 2007–2009 — about 91K vehicles.
The hazard
On certain vehicles with Electro-Hydraulic Power Assist Steering (EHPAS), rust had formed inside the high-pressure pipe on the power steering system during manufacturing due to improper processing. Rust particles may detach from the pipe walls and enter the motorized power steering pump, causing damage to the pump bearings. As a result, gear lubrication may be reduced, leading to an increased load on the motor. Should this happen, there is the potential for the power steering system to enter the fail safe mode in order to prevent overheating, resulting in the power steering warning lamp to light and the motorized pump to stop which could lead to a loss of power assist and the required steering effort will increase. Correction: Dealers will flush the power steering system and repair as necessary.
What to do
Contact your dealer; the remedy details were not included in the filing.