Mazda 6s recalled... due to the wrong type of spider!

[yorkie]

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/technology-26921734

Petrol-sniffing spiders have forced Mazda to issue a voluntary recall notice so it can apply a software fix to its cars.

The yellow sac spider is attracted to the smell of petrol, and will weave its web in engines, causing a blockage and build-up of pressure.

The problem increased the risk of fire, Mazda said.

A software update will be applied to recalled cars to monitor the pressure level and warn drivers of any danger.


Mazda said it was unaware of any fires being started due to the vulnerability, but it has been a problem that has plagued the company since at least 2009.



Specifically, it is Mazda 6s from the 2010-12 range that are covered by this latest recall.

In the documents, Mazda explained: "A certain type of spider may weave a web in the evaporative canister vent line, potentially causing a restriction in the line...

Bizarre! Is the problem unique to this car? Has anyone here been affected by this?

 

[Peter Mugridge]

It seems to only affect parts of the USA where this type of spider lives, but I wonder why it only seems to be affecting this type of car?

 

[richw]

Have the BBC just copied an American article from April 1st, I had to check date before commenting.

 

[Peter Mugridge]

The Mazda report quoted is dated 11th March.