Mazda has issued a recall for about 40,000 B-Series pickups from model years 1995 through 1997 and 2001 through 2003, in order to correct a defect that could result in a vehicle fire.

In a recall notice filed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the automaker explains, "A component of the cruise control deactivation switch may deteriorate over time and develop a leak. This occurrence could cause the switch to overheat, smoke or burn which could result in an under hood fire." This fire "could occur with or without the engine running." 

The B-Series is built under a partnership with Ford, and shares most of its parts with Ford’s Ranger. This recall is an outgrowth of a campaign in which Ford has recalled more than 14 million vehicles over the last decade, all due to the same cruise control switch problem.

In an attempt to correct the problem, Mazda dealers will "install a universal fused jumper harness on the cruise control deactivation switch free of charge." This is the same fix Ford has employed. Owners should receive a recall notice in the mail in late November, but those who wish to make their own repair arrangements may contact Mazda at 1-800-222-5500.

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