TOKYO (AFP) - Japanese automaker Mazda said on Thursday (Sept 1) it was recalling more than two million vehicles globally over a defect in their tailgates.

The recall covers about 400,000 vehicles sold in Japan and 1.8 million units exported overseas, according to a Mazda spokesman.

It affects six models including the popular CX-3 and CX-5 sport-utility vehicles.

No accidents or injuries have been reported over the issue - paint was improperly applied to the tailgate which could lead to corrosion.

Separately, the Hiroshima-based company recalled about 117,000 vehicles in Japan due to a diesel engine defect.