With every new electronic gizmo added to a car, there’s a chance that something can go wrong. Even with decades-old technology, a fault might be found. Such is the case in some 2010 Mazda CX-9 crossovers, where a faulty seat heater can lead to “burn damage of the seat cushion surface,” or even smoke and fire, according to the NHTSA.
The problem is caused by an insufficient electrical ground, which under extremely cold conditions could cause a short, leading the aforementioned burn damage, smoke and fire. Dealers will be installing another ground harness for the seat heater circuit. If necessary, they’ll also install a new seat heater control unit. Owners can call Mazda at 1-800-222-5500, or wait until March 9th, when the recall is scheduled to begin.
by John Suit
Source: NHTSA