Summary
The Mazda Navajo has 8 recalls covering the 1991–1993 production run, with the most serious being a fuel tank defect on 1991 models where a heat shield extension can contact and puncture the plastic fuel tank, allowing fuel or vapor to escape and potentially ignite.
Two other 1991-only recalls carry equal severity. The automatic transmission's park pawl can fail to fully engage when the shift lever is placed in park, leaving the vehicle free to roll while the driver believes it is secured. On the brake side, the studs connecting the brake master cylinder to the vacuum booster can develop cracks over time, and if one or both studs fracture, brake assist can be lost. There is also a 1991 recall for vehicles equipped with a factory sunroof, where the glass panel can separate while driving due to improper hinge engagement, creating a distraction and a risk of losing control. The 1991 rear bumper can develop fatigue cracks under extended trailer towing with a bumper-mounted hitch and eventually separate from the vehicle.
On 1992 models, the liftgate's hydraulic lift cylinder bracket welds can fracture and allow the liftgate to drop unexpectedly from its open position. The 1993 model year has two separate issues: the same liftgate bracket weld failure described for 1992 models, and a parking brake self-adjust pawl that can slip over teeth in the ratchet and fail to hold the vehicle, allowing it to roll if the transmission is not left in gear.
