CX-90 (1st)
Data covers 5 NHTSA model names
Reliability Score
Complaints by Engine Code
H3 Standard Power
3.3L 6-cyl / 280 hpView details
Complaint Breakdown
PY
2.5L 4-cyl / 189 hpView details
Complaint Breakdown
Show 1 additional engine variant with limited data
Mazda CX-90 Unidentified Engine
View details
Complaint Breakdown
Battery & Propulsion Reliability
Mild Hybrid
Battery & propulsion complaint analysis for the 2024-2026 Mazda CX-90
That's roughly 8.9x the typical rate for mild hybrids in this dataset (median 3.0 per year). This generation has materially more battery & propulsion complaints than its peers. The comparison is not adjusted for sales volume.
What kind of battery complaint?
Among the 80 battery-related complaints, here's the type mix. These percentages describe what the complaints are about — not how reliable the vehicle is overall.
Hybrid system warnings, eCVT, motor-generator, hybrid transaxle.
Loss of power, drive unit, inverter, traction motor, DC-DC converter.
Propulsion battery defects, capacity loss, BMS faults, replacement claims.
Charge port, cable, mobile connector, or session failures.
Low-voltage battery deaths, common on EVs and hybrids that use a 12V for accessories.
Battery fires, smoke, thermal runaway. Includes any complaint with fire reported.
Battery & propulsion recalls (3)
Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain 2024-2025 CX-90 and 2025 CX-70 vehicles equipped with a Dash Electrical Supply Unit (ESU). During vehicle startup, the defroster, seat belt warning, 360° view monitor functions, and the PHEV high-voltage battery cooling system may not function properly.
Consequence: An ESU that does not function properly, increases the risk of a crash.
Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain 2024 CX-90 plug-in hybrid electric (PHEV) vehicles. Due to a software error, the engine and electric motor may shut down unexpectedly, which can result in a loss of drive power.
Consequence: A loss of drive power can increase the risk of a crash.
Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain 2024 CX-90 and 2025 CX-70 plug-in hybrid electric vehicles. Improper inverter software may cause the malfunction indicator lights to illuminate, and a loss of drive power may occur while in electric vehicle (EV) mode.
Consequence: Loss of drive power increases the risk of a crash.
Sample complaint excerpts
Hybrid Drivetrain
- [2025] Hybrid battery recall was replaced and failed a month later for a second time burning other systems and causing a compete failure in the car. It failed in a deserted portion of [XXX] while traveling from [XXX] to [XXX] for important business. This left me stranded in the middle of the [XXX] desert late at night in a dangerous area. It failed on the highway loosing complete power with multiple
- [2025] I am submitting this complaint regarding my 2025 Mazda CX-90 PHEV, leased in April 2025. Since early in my lease, the vehicle has had ongoing drivability issues that have worsened over time and now present a serious safety concern.From the beginning, the vehicle exhibited jerking and hesitation while driving. Initially minor, this has become more frequent and now includes stalling behavior during
- [2025] On 3/19/2026, the vehicle ignition was turned on. Immediately, we received a variety of warnings, including: "charging system malfunction", "i-ACTIVESENSE Partially Disabled", "Hybrid System Malfunction", "i-stop Malfunction", "Charging System Malfunction", and "Critical Systems Failure". Vehicle has only 20,040 miles. On 3/20/2026 8:30 AM, we contacted the Mazda dealer where vehicle was purcha
Electric Propulsion
- [2025] Hybrid battery recall was replaced and failed a month later for a second time burning other systems and causing a compete failure in the car. It failed in a deserted portion of [XXX] while traveling from [XXX] to [XXX] for important business. This left me stranded in the middle of the [XXX] desert late at night in a dangerous area. It failed on the highway loosing complete power with multiple
- [2025] The vehicle repeatedly displays warnings including “Acceleration Limited Due to Low Fuel and/or Battery Condition,” Hybrid System Malfunction, and Engine System warnings. These events result in reduced acceleration and loss of power while driving. The condition occurs despite normal fuel levels and routine driving conditions. The vehicle has been taken to the dealership multiple times. Each time,
- [2024] I am reporting a recurring safety-related issue with my 2024 Mazda CX-90 Turbo S Premium involving the mild hybrid system. The first failure occurred at approximately 28,000 miles. While driving, the vehicle displayed multiple warning messages, including "Mild Hybrid Battery Malfunction," "i-Stop Malfunction," and "Engine Malfunction." Shortly afterward, the vehicle entered a reduced-power (limp
High-Voltage Battery
- [2025] Hybrid battery recall was replaced and failed a month later for a second time burning other systems and causing a compete failure in the car. It failed in a deserted portion of [XXX] while traveling from [XXX] to [XXX] for important business. This left me stranded in the middle of the [XXX] desert late at night in a dangerous area. It failed on the highway loosing complete power with multiple
- [2025] The vehicle repeatedly displays warnings including “Acceleration Limited Due to Low Fuel and/or Battery Condition,” Hybrid System Malfunction, and Engine System warnings. These events result in reduced acceleration and loss of power while driving. The condition occurs despite normal fuel levels and routine driving conditions. The vehicle has been taken to the dealership multiple times. Each time,
- [2024] 1) What component or system failed? The issue appears to involve the vehicle’s electrical system and hybrid system, as well as brake-related electronic systems. The vehicle displayed multiple warnings including “Hybrid System Malfunction” and “Critical Vehicle Malfunction.” The electronic parking brake system was also affected during the incident, including a situation where the brake could not be
Charging System
- [2025] I am submitting this complaint regarding my 2025 Mazda CX-90 PHEV, leased in April 2025. Since early in my lease, the vehicle has had ongoing drivability issues that have worsened over time and now present a serious safety concern.From the beginning, the vehicle exhibited jerking and hesitation while driving. Initially minor, this has become more frequent and now includes stalling behavior during
- [2024] While connected to a level 2 charger, overheating caused both the charger and charging port of the vehicle to melt together such that it was very difficult to disconnect, and both were then unusable – needing replacement. (photos attached) We feel that there should be some safeguard in the vehicle to prevent this situation as it is a fire hazard. There were no warning lights, sounds, nor signals f
- [2025] The contact owns a 2025 Mazda CX-90 PHEV. The contact stated that the hybrid battery failed to charge above 80 percent, and the "Engine Malfunction" warning light remained illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer who was unable to determine the cause of the failure. The vehicle was not yet repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 25.
12V Auxiliary Battery
- [2024] Low voltage battery system Safety is at risk because vehicle could loose power and be forced into a turtle mode cause injury from sudden slow down Yes there were warning lights This is a continued problem identified but other owners and consistently replaced
- [2024] The vehicle experienced a sudden and repeated malfunction of the hybrid/electrical system and powertrain, resulting in the vehicle becoming inoperable. The vehicle is currently at the dealership and is available for inspection upon request. While driving in traffic, multiple warning messages appeared, including "Hybrid System Malfunction," "Charging System Malfunction," "Engine Malfunction," "Bra
Thermal Events
- [2024] The vehicle caught fire while in operation/driving and later engulfed entie cabin. No warning lamps, in-vehicle alerts, or other warning signs were activated or displayed. Car has not yet been inspected.
Source: classified from NHTSA complaint and recall data. "Battery-related" includes high-voltage propulsion battery, charging system, hybrid drivetrain, electric propulsion, regenerative braking, 12V auxiliary battery, and thermal-event complaints. Other complaints (suspension, steering, brakes, infotainment) appear in the engine and vehicle-level sections. Rates are absolute counts, not normalized per-VIN — high-volume models naturally produce more raw complaints than low-volume ones. Self-reported death and injury counts are capped per complaint to limit form abuse.
Owner Complaints by System
Complaints owners filed with NHTSA about the Mazda CX-90, counted across every engine. A complaint can name more than one system.
What to check on a used 2024-2026 Mazda CX-90
On a used 2024-2026 Mazda CX-90, the systems with the most NHTSA owner complaints are the steering (206), the engine (93) and the airbags and driver-assist systems (89). Each one has an inspection step below, with counts as of 2026-10-12. A complaint is an owner report, not a confirmed defect, and counts rise with sales.
- Turn the wheel from lock to lock while parked, then drive straight on a level road with a light grip.Safety. NHTSA has 206 owner complaints on the 2024-2026 Mazda CX-90 about the steering.
- Start the engine cold and listen for the first 30 seconds, then again at idle once it is warm.Costly repair. NHTSA has 93 owner complaints on the 2024-2026 Mazda CX-90 about the engine, all engines combined.
- Switch the ignition on and watch the airbag light. On the drive, check the backup camera and any collision or lane warning.Safety. NHTSA has 89 owner complaints on the 2024-2026 Mazda CX-90 about the airbags and driver-assist systems.
- Switch on every electrical item in turn: lights, windows, locks, wipers, climate fan, screen and power outlets.Costly repair. NHTSA has 89 owner complaints on the 2024-2026 Mazda CX-90 about the electrical system.
- Drive slowly in a parking lot and note each time the engine starts and stops.Costly repair. NHTSA has 63 owner complaints on the 2024-2026 Mazda CX-90 (hybrid and electric versions only) about the hybrid system.
- Accelerate gently through every gear, then once at full throttle. Shift into Reverse and back to Drive.Costly repair. NHTSA has 45 owner complaints on the 2024-2026 Mazda CX-90 about the transmission and drivetrain, all engines combined.
Recalls (11)
Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain 2024-2025 CX-90 and 2025 CX-70 mild hybrid electric vehicles (MHEV). The fuel gauge in the instrument cluster may display an inaccurate fuel reading.
Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain 2024-2025 CX-90 and 2025 CX-70 vehicles equipped with a Dash Electrical Supply Unit (ESU). During vehicle startup, the defroster, seat belt warning, 360° view monitor functions, and the PHEV high-voltage battery cooling system may not function properly.
Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain 2024 CX-90 and 2025 CX-70 vehicles. The powertrain control module (PCM) and engine control modules (ECM) software may cause malfunction indicator lights to illuminate and a loss of drive power.
Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain 2024 CX-90 vehicles. The engine may not restart after the idling stop feature (i-stop) turns off the engine due to a software issue.
Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain 2024 CX-90 and 2025 CX-70 plug-in hybrid electric vehicles. Improper inverter software may cause the malfunction indicator lights to illuminate, and a loss of drive power may occur while in electric vehicle (EV) mode.
Show 6 older recalls
Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain 2024 CX-90 vehicles. The brakes may activate suddenly due to the automatic braking system falsely detecting certain objects while driving.
Mazda North America Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain 2024 CX-90 vehicles. An assembly issue with the worm gear in the steering system may result in a sudden loss of power steering assist.
Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain 2024 CX-90 and MAZDA3 vehicles. Due to a software error, the rearview, front, and/or side camera images may not appear on the display. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."
Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain 2024 CX-90 plug-in hybrid electric (PHEV) vehicles. Due to a software error, the engine and electric motor may shut down unexpectedly, which can result in a loss of drive power.
Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain 2024 CX-90 vehicles. Software in the Approaching Vehicle Audible System (AVAS) Information Sound Box (ISB) amplifier may be missing, which can cause inaccurate, external pedestrian warning sounds. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 141, "Minimum Sound Requirements for Hybrid Electric Vehicles."
Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain 2024 CX-90 vehicles. Some steering and suspension bolts may be missing or improperly tightened, which can cause the steering intermediate shaft, the front anti-lock brake system wheel speed sensor harnesses, or the front upper control arms to detach, resulting in a loss of vehicle control.
NHTSA Safety Ratings About NHTSA ratings
Alternatives in Midsize SUV
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most common 2024-2026 Mazda CX-90 complaints?
Owners have filed 505 complaints with NHTSA about the 2024-2026 Mazda CX-90. The systems they name most often are the steering, the engine and the safety systems.
Is the 2024-2026 Mazda CX-90 a good used car?
That depends on the model year, the mileage and the maintenance history of the car in front of you. Owners have filed 505 complaints with NHTSA about the 2024-2026 Mazda CX-90. Check which systems they name most often and whether a recall is still open on that car.
How many NHTSA complaints does the 2024-2026 Mazda CX-90 have?
NHTSA has 505 owner complaints on file for the 2024-2026 Mazda CX-90 as of the latest data pull. A complaint is an owner's report, not a confirmed defect, and counts rise with sales.
What recalls affect the 2024-2026 Mazda CX-90?
NHTSA lists 11 recalls covering some 2024-2026 Mazda CX-90 vehicles. Which ones apply depends on the VIN: enter it at nhtsa.gov/recalls to see the open campaigns on a specific car.
What should I check before buying a used Mazda CX-90?
Run the VIN through NHTSA's recall lookup and confirm every open recall has been done. Look hardest at the steering, the engine and the safety systems, the systems owners complain about most. Ask for maintenance records, have an independent mechanic inspect the car and run a vehicle history report for prior accidents and title issues.
What are the NHTSA crash test ratings for the CX-90?
The 2026 Mazda CX-90 received an overall 5-star safety rating from NHTSA. Frontal crash: 4 stars. Side crash: 5 stars. Rollover: 4 stars (15.5% rollover probability). Electronic Stability Control: Standard. Forward Collision Warning: Standard. Lane Departure Warning: Standard. These ratings are based on standardized crash tests conducted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
Data from NHTSA federal complaints database. 505 complaints analyzed. Data confidence: high. Last updated: 2026-10-12.