The problem
On certain sport utility vehicles, a post within the safety belt buckle covers could fracture, which could affect latch function, resulting in either a "no latch" or "partial latch" condition. In the "partial latch" condition, the buckle tongue can be inserted into the buckle and appear to be engaged, but will release from the buckle without the push button being depressed when a relatively low load is applied, such as when an occupant moves slightly in the seat.
The risk
In the event of a crash, the seat occupant May not be properly restrained, increasing the risk of injury.
The fix
Dealers will have the driver and front passenger safety belt buckle cover removed and replaced with a newly designed service buckle cover. Owner notification began February 5, 2004. Owners should contact Mazda at 1-800-222-5500.
Recall details
| NHTSA campaign | 03V-515 (03V515000) |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer number | 1503L |
| Manufacturer | Mazda Motor Corp. |
| Component | Seat belts › Front › Buckle assembly |
| Report date | December 15, 2003 |
| Owners notified | February 5, 2004 |
| Vehicles affected | 49,000 |
| Initiated by | NHTSA investigation |
Vehicles covered
Owner complaints about the seat belts
Frequently asked questions
Is the recall 03V-515 repair free?
Yes. Mazda dealers will fix the problem at no cost: Dealers will have the driver and front passenger safety belt buckle cover removed and replaced with a newly designed service buckle cover. Owner notification began February 5, 2004. Owners should contact Mazda at 1-800-222-5500.
How do I know if my car is included?
Not every vehicle of the listed model years is affected — the recall covers 49,000 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.