Mazda Motor Corp. is recalling 215,000 Mazda3 and Mazda5 vehicles to fix problems with the power-steering system that could lead to a crash.The Japanese automaker told the government the recall involved model year 2007-2009 Mazda3 and Mazda5 vehicles built from April 2007 through November 2008.

Mazda says the vehicles could suddenly lose power-steering assist, making it more difficult for the driver to steer. The automaker says that could increase the risk of a crash.

The government had opened an investigation into steering problems in the vehicles in June. At the time, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration had 33 complaints steering problems, including three crashes.