The 1989 Mazda MPV has 5 recalls, the most serious being two separate fire risks tied to the ignition switch, which can develop an electrical short or overheat internally and produce smoke or flames.
On the brake side, there are two concerns. The rear brakes can become increasingly aggressive over time, locking the rear wheels during low-speed stops and causing the vehicle to lose directional control. Separately, the vacuum check valve in the power brake system can stick in cold temperatures, cutting off the vacuum supply that powers the brake booster. The first brake application may still feel normal because residual vacuum provides some assist, but continued braking will require significantly more pedal effort as that reserve is exhausted. On the safety equipment side, the centre seatbelt attachment brackets for the third-row seat may not be strong enough to hold under the tension generated in a crash, raising the risk that the belt pulls free when it is needed 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.
