The problem
On certain Mini vans and passenger vehicles, the socket holder in the fog lights is installed in the lamp casing using pressure. During operation of the fog light, the heat from the bulb can expand the socket holder. The expansion can force the socket holder rearward. After repeatedly being subject to this expansion, if the fog light is also subjected to vibration during vehicle operation, the socket holder with the bulb holder and the wiring harness May separate from the fog light casing.
The risk
Should this occur, the bulb socket and the harness can drop inside the bumper and possibly but rarely, the heat generated by the bulb can cause the bumper to burn.
The fix
Dealers will install a spring to prevent the socket holder from separating from the lamp case. Owner notification began on July 14, 2003. Owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact Mazda at 1-800-222-5500.
Recall details
| NHTSA campaign | 03V-206 (03V206000) |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer number | 1103F |
| Manufacturer | Mazda Motor Corp. |
| Component | Exterior lighting › Fog lights |
| Report date | June 5, 2003 |
| Owners notified | July 14, 2003 |
| Vehicles affected | 64,000 |
| Initiated by | Manufacturer |
Vehicles covered
Plus 3 other model/year combinations not covered on this site.
Owner complaints about the lights
Frequently asked questions
Is the recall 03V-206 repair free?
Yes. Mazda dealers will fix the problem at no cost: Dealers will install a spring to prevent the socket holder from separating from the lamp case. Owner notification began on July 14, 2003. Owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy…
How do I know if my car is included?
Not every vehicle of the listed model years is affected — the recall covers 64,000 vehicles built in a certain window. Check your 17-character VIN with our VIN recall check or at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Source: U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) — owner complaints through October 20, 2026, recalls and defect investigations; fuel economy from the EPA. Complaints are unverified reports and are not proof of a defect. How we rate model years.