WASHINGTON, D.C. -

Mazda North American Operations informed the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration that it plans to recall 161,400 units of the Mazda6 from the 2009 through 2013 model years.

Mazda is recalling these units manufactured between Feb. 4, 2008 and Aug. 24, 2012 because the door latch mounting screws may become loose.

“If all three door latch mounting screws become excessively loose, the door latch mechanism would not engage and the door might open while the vehicle is in motion increasing the risk of accident or injury,” NHTSA officials said.

Mazda told the agency that it will notify owners and franchised dealers will apply a thread locking adhesive to the door screws and retorque them, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin by Oct. 18.

In the meantime, vehicle owners can contact Mazda at (800) 222-5500 and mention recall No. 7013I.

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