Mazda Motor Co is recalling 923,672 vehicles in Japan due to possible defective ignition switches, the carmaker said today.

Mazda reported 13 fire incidents as a result of the defect, but the carmaker said it is not aware of any injuries or deaths caused by the problem.

The recall includes 21 models, including Demio, Familia, MPV, Ford Festiva and Ford Laser, the carmaker said.

Mazda is also to recall vehicles abroad over the same issue, but the carmaker does not know how many cars would be affected, a company spokesperson said.

- dpa