Mazda PH issues recall on select BT-50 models for defective backseat latches

MANILA: Mazda Philippines is urging Mazda BT-50 (2012 to 2015 model years) owners to confirm at Mazda dealerships if their pickup trucks are affected by malfunctioning backseat latches. 

As part of its Proactive Special Service Campaign, the Mazda distributor will replace the backseat lock mechanism — which holds the rear bench in an upright position — of affected previous-generation BT-50 units.

The replacement will be done free of charge. The Special Service Campaign for this issue was first called by Mazda in 2017. 

Mazda Philippines said that the malfunctioning backseat locks might exhibit an "abnormal noise" and have a risk of falling down when the vehicle is braking. 

The clearance between the child-restraint and backseat will also become too narrow when a rear-facing child seat is installed, the company added. 

Specific BT-50 pickups with the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) range from MM7UP*****W118317 to 462951, and built from May 2012 to June 2015 at the Mazda AAT manufacturing plant in Thailand, are included in this campaign.

Owners of the BT-50s within this VIN range and model years are requested to confirm whether their vehicle is included in the campaign. 

Owners of covered units can book an appointment with their preferred dealer and have the replacement done via Mazda's website. 

Customers can also contact the 15 authorized Mazda dealerships to check the inclusion of their BT-50’s VIN.

The part replacement is free of charge and it will take less than two hours to perform, Mazda said. 

"Special Service Campaigns are part of Mazda Philippines’ commitment to customer satisfaction and safety... Mazda aims to deliver... peace of mind to its customers," General Manager for Customer Service and Aftersales of Mazda Philippines Ramil De Vera expressed. 

"This high level of after-sales service is also reflected in Mazda Philippines’ number-one ranking in the JD Power 2019 Philippines Customer Service Index (CSI) Study," he added. 

There are 15 Mazda dealerships located across the Philippines and Metro Manila. These are Mazda Greenhills, Mazda Pasig, Mazda Quezon Avenue, Mazda Makati, Mazda Alabang, Mazda Sta. Rosa, Mazda Pulilan, Mazda Pampanga, Mazda Dagupan, Mazda Cabanatuan, Mazda Tarlac, Mazda Cebu, Mazda Iloilo, Mazda Cagayan De Oro, and Mazda Davao.

Photos from Mazda Philippines, Mazda

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