WASHINGTON — Mazda is recalling 7,200 2007-'08 Mazda 6 cars with California emissions specifications to fix a problem with the fuel tank that could result in a fuel leakage, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

'The metal fuel tanks on the affected vehicles may have had the PVC protective coating on the outside of the fuel tank damaged during the assembly process, which may result in reduced corrosion resistance,' according to the recall summary posted by NHTSA on its Web site. 'This could lead to perforation of the fuel tank, causing fuel leakage. Fuel leakage in the presence of an ignition source could result in a fire.'

Dealers will check the fuel tank for damage to the protective coating. They will either repair the coating or replace the fuel tank. The recall has begun.

Owners can contact Mazda for more information at (800) 222-5500, option 2.