The problem
Vehicle description: passenger vehicles. An external spring in the timing belt tensioner can break and get caught in the timing belt.
The risk
This condition can result in possible engine stalling.
The fix
Dealers will inspect the tensioner and replace it if necessary.
Recall details
| NHTSA campaign | 98V206001 (98V206001) |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Mazda Motor Corp. |
| Component | Engine and engine cooling › Engine |
| Report date | September 8, 1998 |
| Owners notified | November 20, 1998 |
| Vehicles affected | 40,000 |
| Initiated by | Manufacturer |
Vehicles covered
Owner complaints about the engine & cooling
Frequently asked questions
Is the recall 98V206001 repair free?
Yes. Mazda dealers will fix the problem at no cost: Dealers will inspect the tensioner and replace it if necessary.
How do I know if my car is included?
Not every vehicle of the listed model years is affected — the recall covers 40,000 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.