Nearly 25,400 2010 Mazda3 Recalled in the US

The paint hasn't dried yet on the recently-launched 2010 Mazda3 and Zoom Zoom already recalls around 25,400 units in the United States due to a malfunction in the electric system. A notification posted on the official National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) writes that the glitch could eventually lead to a crash, unless the cars are inspected and repaired.

More specifically, "a clearance between the engine harness and the housing of starter motor may be insufficient," as the NHTSA notification reads. "Due to this, the covering of the harness may be damaged through vibration during operation, possibly causing a short-circuit between certain harness wires and the starter housing," it adds.

The result? "A short-circuit can result in engine control malfunction and/or poor shift quality", which, in its turn, could cause the main fuse to blow out "causing the engine to stall, increasing the risk of a crash".

Obviously, dealers will inspect the engine harness and, if needed, will add a protector clip on the harness. All operations will be conducted free of charge, with recalls expected to being on May 6.

Mazda3 - in sedan bodystyle - is being offered in a choice of two engines, a 2.0- and a 2.5-liter. The 2.0-liter configuration generates 148 horsepower and 135 lb-ft of torque and is mated to a 5-speed manual transmission available as standard. The 2.5-liter option on the other hand puts out a maximum output of 167 horsepower and 168 lb-ft of torque, with fuel consumption of 21 mpg (11.2 L/100Km) and 29 mpg (8.1 L/100Km) and city and highway conditions, respectively.

The 2010 Mazda3 sedan was officially unveiled to the North American public at the Los Angeles Auto Show on November 19, 2008.