2024 Mazda Cx-90 Safety Report

The 2024 Mazda CX-90, despite being a new model, has accumulated a significant 291 NHTSA complaints, including 12 crashes and 9 injuries, with no reported fires or deaths. A major concern is the lack of official NHTSA safety ratings (Overall, Frontal, Side, Rollover are all N/A), making it difficult to assess its crashworthiness through standardized tests. The vehicle has been subject to a high number of 11 recalls, which is substantial for a new model year. These recalls address critical safety components such as steering, propulsion systems, automatic emergency braking, and electrical systems, indicating potential design or manufacturing issues early in its lifecycle. Common complaint patterns heavily revolve around the STEERING system, accounting for 78 complaints, often described as 'sticky,' 'notchy,' or experiencing sudden resistance, even after recall repairs. FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE systems are also a frequent concern with 23 complaints, including issues with unexpected braking. Several recalls directly address these complaint areas, such as the recall for an assembly issue with the worm gear in the steering system and another for the automatic braking system falsely detecting objects. The high number of recalls and complaints, particularly concerning fundamental driving functions like steering and propulsion, suggests a challenging initial quality period for the CX-90. The recall history is extensive and covers a wide range of critical systems. Recalls include issues that could lead to loss of drive power (inverter software, PCM/ECM software, engine not restarting after i-stop, engine/electric motor shutdown in PHEV), increased crash risk due to inaccurate fuel gauges, non-functioning Dash Electrical Supply Units, and loss of power steering assist. Furthermore, recalls address safety features like automatic emergency braking activating falsely, rearview camera display failures, and inaccurate external warning sounds for pedestrians. The sheer volume and critical nature of these recalls indicate that Mazda is actively addressing significant safety concerns, but the underlying issues have led to numerous owner complaints. In summary, while the 2024 Mazda CX-90 has no official crash test ratings, its safety profile is currently overshadowed by a high volume of owner complaints and an extensive list of 11 recalls. The most prominent issues relate to steering difficulties and malfunctions in the forward collision avoidance system, both of which have been subject to recalls. The recurring nature of some complaints, even post-recall, suggests that potential buyers should exercise caution and thoroughly investigate the resolution of these issues.

Our recommendation: Given the high number of recalls and persistent complaints, particularly regarding steering and propulsion, exercise caution. Ensure all 11 recalls have been addressed and thoroughly test drive the vehicle to check for any lingering steering issues before purchasing.