Mazda recalls 57K cars over faulty seatbelt sensor

Sept. 23 (UPI) -- Japanese automaker Mazda recalled more than 57,000 vehicles over a potentially faulty seatbelt sensor that could cause passenger airbags not to deploy during a crash.

The recall affects 57,878 Mazda 6 vehicles manufactured between Nov. 3, 2013 and Dec. 9, 2014.

The defect is a result of excess weld splatter on the passenger seat frame that could come in contact with seatbelt sensors, causing them to short-circuit. The defect could cause the vehicle not to sense when the seatbelt is engaged, meaning the airbag might not deploy in the event of an accident.

The malfunction could also cause the vehicle's power steering assist to fail.

Affected vehicles may experience various multiple warning lights illuminating due to the short-circuited seatbelt sensor, as well.

There have not been any accidents, injuries or deaths associated with the malfunction, the automaker said in announcing the recall.

The affected seats are unique to the Mazda 6 and no other vehicles are included in the recall.