2023 Mazda Cx-50 Safety Report
2023 Mazda CX-50: High crash test ratings, but notable complaints and recalls concerning brakes and driver-assist systems.
AI Safety Analysis for the 2023 Mazda Cx-50
Reliability Score
The 2023 Mazda Cx-50 receives a reliability score of 75 out of 100 based on analysis of NHTSA complaint data, recall history, crash reports, and safety ratings. This indicates above-average reliability relative to comparable vehicles.
Known Issues for the 2023 Mazda Cx-50
The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2023 Mazda Cx-50:
| Issue | Severity | Frequency | Typical Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Abs Hydraulic Control Unit (Hcu) Damage Recall for potential HCU damage leading to reduced braking ability and increased stopping distance. |
High | Occasional | new-unknown miles |
| Trailer Hitch Harness Detachment Recall for trailer hitch harness detaching, potentially causing inoperative trailer lights/brakes. |
Medium | Occasional | new-unknown miles |
| Unintended Acceleration Vehicle abruptly accelerates without driver input, leading to crashes. |
High | Occasional | unknown miles |
| Forward Collision Avoidance System Malfunction System either fails to activate during a collision or applies emergency braking unexpectedly. |
High | Occasional | unknown miles |
| Brake Fluid Leaks/Reduced Braking Performance Brake fluid leaks from calipers or loose bleeder screws, causing warning lights and reduced braking. |
High | Occasional | 22000-47000 miles |
| Loose/Wobbling Steering Wheel Steering wheel feels loose or wobbles, affecting steering control. |
Medium | Rare | unknown miles |
| Driver'S Door Not Opening From Inside Driver's door latch fails, preventing opening from the interior, a significant safety concern in emergencies. |
High | Rare | unknown miles |
| Panoramic Sunroof Explosion Sunroof glass spontaneously shatters while driving, showering the cabin with glass shards. |
Medium | Rare | unknown miles |
Common Problems Reported by Owners
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2023 Mazda Cx-50:
Issues include reduced braking, fluid leaks, and premature wear of pads/rotors, despite a recall for ABS HCU.
Complaints about strut bearing wear causing noise and control arm failure.
Includes issues like panoramic sunroof explosion and water leaks leading to mold.
Reports of loose, wobbling, or sticky steering wheels, especially at low speeds or in cold weather.
Malfunctions leading to unintended braking or failure to activate during potential collisions.
Driver's door not opening from the inside and keyless entry failures.
Loss of engine power due to issues like fuel injector problems.
Premature rips and fraying in seat upholstery.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2023 Mazda Cx-50
Is the 2023 Mazda CX-50 safe?
Based on NHTSA data, the 2023 Mazda CX-50 received excellent crash test ratings (5-star overall, frontal, and side, 4-star rollover). However, there are 50 complaints, 7 crashes, and 2 injuries reported, along with two safety recalls concerning the ABS Hydraulic Control Unit and trailer hitch harness, which could impact real-world safety.
What are common problems with the 2023 Mazda CX-50?
The most reported issues are related to SERVICE BRAKES (10% of complaints), SUSPENSION (8%), STRUCTURE (8%), STEERING (6%), and FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE systems (6%). Specific problems include unintended acceleration, brake fluid leaks, steering wheel looseness, and driver-assist system malfunctions.
Are there any recalls for the 2023 Mazda CX-50?
Yes, there are two recalls. One addresses potential damage to the ABS Hydraulic Control Unit, which can reduce braking ability. The second concerns the trailer hitch harness, which may detach and cause inoperative trailer lights or brakes.
How does the 2023 Mazda CX-50 perform in crash tests?
The 2023 Mazda CX-50 performed exceptionally well in NHTSA crash tests, earning a 5-star overall safety rating, with 5 stars for frontal crash and side crash tests, and 4 stars for rollover resistance.
Should I be concerned about the i-Activsense system in the 2023 CX-50?
There are several complaints (6% of total) regarding the i-Activsense system, specifically the Forward Collision Avoidance, with reports of unexpected braking or failure to activate. While these are a minority of complaints, they represent a significant safety concern.
Buyer Advice
Our recommendation: While the 2023 Mazda CX-50 boasts high crash test ratings, prospective buyers should verify that all recalls, especially those concerning the ABS and trailer hitch, have been addressed, and be aware of reported issues with braking and driver-assist systems.
NHTSA Data Summary for 2023 Mazda Cx-50
This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2023 Mazda Cx-50. The data includes 50 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 2 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 7 reported crashes, 2 reported injuries, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.
The NHTSA has assigned the 2023 Mazda Cx-50 an overall safety rating of 5 out of 5 stars, with a frontal crash rating of 5 stars, a side crash rating of 5 stars, and a rollover rating of 4 stars. These ratings are determined through controlled crash testing conducted by the NHTSA.
All data presented in this report is sourced from public NHTSA databases. Our AI analysis identifies patterns across complaint narratives, correlates them with recall history, and produces the safety assessment above. This analysis is updated as new complaints and recalls are filed with the NHTSA.
Consumers are encouraged to report vehicle safety problems to the NHTSA at nhtsa.gov. If your vehicle is subject to a recall, contact your dealer to schedule the free repair.