The problem
Mazda is recalling certain 2006 B-series vehicles. Mazda requests owners NOT TO DRIVE these vehicles until they have been remedied. Upon deployment of the driver side frontal air bag, excessive internal pressure may cause the inflator to explode. On January 11, 2018, Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) notified NHTSA that they are recalling 160 model year 2006 B-Series vehicles built with driver-side air bags. As of February 9, 2018, Mazda is expanding the recall to a total of 2,205 model year 2006 B-Series vehicles built with driver-side air bags. Upon deployment of the driver side frontal air bag, excessive internal pressure may cause the inflator to explode.
The risk
In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the driver's frontal air bag, the inflator could explode with sharp metal fragments striking the vehicle occupants, potentially resulting in serious injury or death.
The fix
Mazda will notify owners instructing them to not drive their vehicles, and dealers will replace the front driver side air bag inflator with an alternate inflator, free of charge. The recall began January 18, 2018. Owners may contact Mazda customer service at 1-800-222-5500. Mazda's number for this recall is 2218A.
Recall details
| NHTSA campaign | 18V-038 (18V038000) |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer number | 2218A |
| Manufacturer | Mazda Motor Corp. |
| Component | Air bags › Frontal › Driver side › Inflator module |
| Report date | January 16, 2018 |
| Owners notified | January 18, 2018 |
| Vehicles affected | 2,205 |
| Initiated by | NHTSA investigation |
Vehicles covered
Owner complaints about the air bags
Frequently asked questions
Is the recall 18V-038 repair free?
Yes. Mazda dealers will fix the problem at no cost: Mazda will notify owners instructing them to not drive their vehicles, and dealers will replace the front driver side air bag inflator with an alternate inflator, free of charge. The recall began January 18, 2018.
How do I know if my car is included?
Not every vehicle of the listed model years is affected — the recall covers 2,205 vehicles built in a certain window. Check your 17-character VIN with our VIN recall check or at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Is it safe to drive?
No — the manufacturer says owners should not drive affected vehicles until the repair is done. Contact a dealer to arrange towing.
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.