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Petrol-sniffing spiders have prompted Mazda to recall 42,000 cars over fears they could clog up fuel tanks, causing fires.

The yellow sac spider is attracted to the smell of petrol and the manufacturer fears it could weave its web inside engines, causing a blockage and build-up of pressure.

This could lead to the fuel tank cracking, leaking petrol and increasing the risk of fire.

The recall affects Mazda 6 cars from the 2010-12 model years.

In a report released on Friday, Mazda said they were not aware of any fires caused by spider web blockages.

(Image: Mazda)

Owners will have the fault fixed free of charge, with a software update applied to affected cars to monitor the pressure level and warn drivers of danger.

In 2011, Mazda recalled 52,000 2009-10 Mazda 6 cars because of the same problem.

Their solution at the time was to install a spring "to inhibit spider intrusion," but the fix was only partially successful, so a new valve was developed to resolve the problem.

Asked why Mazda was having so much trouble with spiders, Mazda spokesman Jeremy Barnes told the New York Times: "Don't ask me, I'm terrified of the damn things."