LOS ANGELES — Mazda Motor Corp. has recalled 215,000 Mazda3 and Mazda5 models because they can have a sudden loss of power steering while the car is being driven, increasing the risk of a crash, federal safety regulators said Tuesday.
Meanwhile, General Motors Co. said it was recalling about 243,000 sport utility vehicles to inspect the safety belts in the second row of seats. In some instances, the buckles on the seat belts can become damaged in such a way that passengers believe they are latched when they are not.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration said it had received at least 33 complaints alleging steering problems in the 2007-09 model-year Mazda vehicles.
Some owners will get details about how to have their cars fixed in a mailing that will begin by Sept. 15, but others might not hear anything until February, according to regulators. Owners with concerns can contact Mazda customer assistance at 800-222-5500. Owners can also contact the NHTSA at 888-327-4236.
The GM recall involves 2009-2010 models of the Chevrolet Traverse, Buick Enclave, GMC Acadia and Saturn Outlook.
GM said it discovered damaged belt buckles among cars that were taken to dealers for warranty work. The automaker said it did not know of any cases in which the safety belts had failed to perform properly in a crash.
Owners will begin receiving letters this month to schedule appointments with dealership service departments for a no-charge inspection and repair.
