Technical
Service Bulletin

Mazda North American Operations
Irvine, CA 92618-2922

Subject:
DARK STAINS APPEAR ON WHEELS

Bulletin No.: 02-008/18

Last Issued: 04/27/2018

BULLETIN NOTES
This bulletin supersedes the previously issued bulletin(s) listed below. The changes are noted in Red text.

Previous TSBs: Date(s) Issued:
02-002/16

01/08/2016

02-009/13

11/11/2013

02-006/08

9/3/2008

02-006/07

09/27/2007

APPLICABLE MODEL(S)/VINS

2004-2005 Miata 2004-2011 RX-8 2007-2018 CX-9 2016-2018 CX-3
2004-2018 Mazda3 2006-2016 Mazda5 2011-2016 Mazda2 2006-2018 MX-5
2004-2018 Mazda6 2007-2012 CX-7 2013-2018 CX-5

DESCRIPTION
Some automotive cleaning products contain strong acid or alkali. When these types of cleaners are used to
clean the wheels on Mazda vehicles, the chemicals contents penetrate the clear coating of the wheel
surface and damage the paint under the clear coating. The damaged area has the appearance of dark
stains.

Page 1 of 2
CONSUMER NOTICE: The information and instructions in this bulletin are intended for use by skilled technicians. Mazda technicians utilize the proper tools/
equipment and take training to correctly and safely maintain Mazda vehicles. These instructions should not be performed by “do-it-yourselfers.” Customers
should not assume this bulletin applies to their vehicle or that their vehicle will develop the described concern. To determine if the information applies,
customers should contact their nearest authorized Mazda dealership. Mazda North American Operations reserves the right to alter the specifications and
contents of this bulletin without obligation or advance notice. All rights reserved. No part of this bulletin may be reproduced in any form or by any means,
electronic or mechanical---including photocopying and recording and the use of any kind of information storage and retrieval system ---without permission in
writing.

© 2018 Mazda North American Operations, U.S.A.

Bulletin No.: 02-008/18

Last Issued: 04/27/2018

Use extra care when cleaning wheels. The following are guidelines to follow when cleaning the wheels.

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Mazda recommends using a mild soap or neutral detergent as stated in the owner's manual under
Appearance Care in the Maintenance and Care section.
DO NOT use a cleaning products containing strong acid or alkali contents to clean the wheels.
DO NOT apply any type of specialized wheel cleaner to the wheels when they are hot (such as
after driving the vehicle or if the vehicle has sat in the sun). Ensure wheel temperatures are the
same as ambient temperature before cleaning.
Within 15 minutes after any cleaner is applied, rinse the wheel thoroughly to completely remove
cleaner.
Stains on Mazda Wheels caused by improper cleaning are not covered under the Mazda Vehicle
Warranty.

NOTE: Customer concerns of wheel clear coat peeling or flaking do not apply to this bulletin.

Page 2 of 2
CONSUMER NOTICE: The information and instructions in this bulletin are intended for use by skilled technicians. Mazda technicians utilize the proper tools/
equipment and take training to correctly and safely maintain Mazda vehicles. These instructions should not be performed by “do-it-yourselfers.” Customers
should not assume this bulletin applies to their vehicle or that their vehicle will develop the described concern. To determine if the information applies,
customers should contact their nearest authorized Mazda dealership. Mazda North American Operations reserves the right to alter the specifications and
contents of this bulletin without obligation or advance notice. All rights reserved. No part of this bulletin may be reproduced in any form or by any means,
electronic or mechanical---including photocopying and recording and the use of any kind of information storage and retrieval system ---without permission in
writing.

© 2018 Mazda North American Operations, U.S.A.