Mazda recalls 5 million cars because grease in the ignition can cause a fire

Another recall involving millions of cars — this time, for Mazdas made in the 1990s.

What to know about the recall

Even if you have an old Mazda that still runs great, it could have some hidden dangers. The company announced it’s recalling 5 million vehicles worldwide that were made in the 1990s, because of a defective ignition switch.

Mazda said the recall involves several models of cars after discovering that the ignition switch can overheat and potentially cause a fire.

According to a notice filed with the National Highway Trafic Safety Administration, ‘an excessive amount of grease may be present at the contact points inside the ignition switch,’ and ‘the substance can accumulate and carbonize between the points, reducing electrical insulation performance inside the switch.’

Mazda said this can cause the points to overheat, resulting in smoke or fire.

Here are the vehicles included in the recall:

• Model year 1990-96 323/Protégé
• Model year 1989-1998 MPV
• Model year 1993-98 626
• Model year 1993-95 929
• Model year 1993-97 MX-6
• Model year 1992-93 MX-3.

The company issued the recall once it determined that the defect could be a safety hazard.

Mazda said it will notify owners and dealers will replace the ignition switch for free.