WASHINGTON Mazda North American Operations is recalling 14,406 2015-'16 Mazda 3 sedans and hatchbacks because of a fuel tank problem that can result in a fire risk or engine stalling, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
Owners are advised not to drive their vehicle until it is repaired. Mazda will provide free rental cars to affected customers.
A stop-sale order was issued in early October on the affected vehicles.
A defect in the fuel shut-off valve may allow fuel to flow from the fuel tank into the fuel-tank emissions system.
"If enough fuel enters the emission system, it may leak out onto the ground or result in an engine stall," NHTSA said in its recall summary. "A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source increases the risk of a fire. An engine that stalls increases the risk of a crash."
There have been no reports of accidents or injuries linked to the recall.
The affected Mazda 3s were built from May 21, 2015 to August 25, 2015.
