The 1989 Mazda MPV has 5 recalls, the most serious being two fire risks tied to the ignition switch, which can overheat and produce smoke or flame while the vehicle is in use.
On the brake side, two separate issues affect stopping performance. The rear brakes can become increasingly aggressive over time and lock up the rear wheels during low-speed stops, causing the driver to lose control. Separately, a check valve in the vacuum brake hose can stick in cold weather, cutting off the power assist to the brakes after the first application and requiring significantly more pedal force to stop the vehicle. There is also a seat belt concern: the bracket hardware anchoring the center belt at the third-row seat may not hold under the load of a crash, meaning that belt could fail to restrain its occupant when it matters most.
At a glance
What can fail
The ignition switch can develop an electrical short over time, which may cause smoke or fire.
What the fix does
The dealer will replace the ignition switch.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
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At a glance
What can fail
Grease at the ignition switch contact points may become conductive and overheat in certain 1989–1998 Mazda vehicles.
What the fix does
Dealers will replace the ignition switch at no charge.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
Over time, the rear brakes may become overly aggressive when braking at low speeds, which could cause the rear wheels to lock up and make the vehicle harder to control.
What the fix does
The brake shoe assemblies will be replaced with improved parts that prevent this aggressive braking behavior.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
Manufacturing detergent contamination can cause the vacuum brake check valve to stick in cold weather, blocking vacuum buildup and reducing brake power assist after the initial brake application, increasing stopping distances.
What the fix does
The vacuum brake hose and check valve assembly will be replaced.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
The center seat belt attachment brackets on the third row may not be strong enough to withstand the required pulling force, potentially causing them to fail in a crash.
What the fix does
The center seat belt assembly and bracket for the third row will be replaced with parts that meet safety standards.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
