Mazda known issues by model
By CarWhere Research · Updated
CarWhere documents 66 Mazda problems and 63 NHTSA safety recalls across 9 models — CX-5, CX-50, CX-30, CX-90, CX-9, Mazda3, Mazda6, MX-5 Miata and RX-8 — organized by generation. Each entry lists affected model years, symptoms, what to check on a used vehicle before buying, and the sources behind it.
| Model | Generations covered | Documented issues | NHTSA recalls |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mazda CX-5 problems | 3rd gen (2026–present), 2nd gen (2017–2025), 1st gen (2013–2016) | 7 | 7 |
| Mazda CX-50 problems | 1st gen (2023–present) | 5 | 5 |
| Mazda CX-30 problems | 1st gen (2020–present) | 6 | 6 |
| Mazda CX-90 problems | 1st gen (2024–present) | 8 | 8 |
| Mazda CX-9 problems | 2nd gen (2016–2023), 1st gen (2007–2015) | 6 | 6 |
| Mazda3 problems | 4th gen (2019–present), 3rd gen (2014–2018), 2nd gen (2010–2013), 1st gen (2004–2009) | 13 | 12 |
| Mazda6 problems | 3rd gen (2014–2021), 2nd gen (2009–2013), 1st gen (2003–2008) | 11 | 10 |
| Mazda MX-5 Miata problems | ND (2016–present), NC (2006–2015), NB (1999–2005), NA (1990–1997) | 5 | 5 |
| Mazda RX-8 problems | 1st gen (2004–2011) | 5 | 4 |
Mazda CX-5 problems
Mazda CX-5 problems on record are mostly recall campaigns. 2013–2016 first-generation models have fuel filler pipe (16V064), liftgate strut (16V644) and daytime running light recalls. 2017–2025 models have a 2018–2019 engine-stall software fix (19V497) and a fuel pump recall (21V875). The all-new 2026 CX-5 has no campaign in this data yet.
Mazda CX-50 problems
The Mazda CX-50, built in Alabama since the 2023 model year, has a short recall list. Campaigns cover a 2023 ABS hydraulic unit (23V275), loose front suspension bolts on 2025 models (25V737), a 2025 CX-50 Hybrid shifter fix and accessory trailer hitch hardware. Each repair is free, so check the VIN before buying.
Mazda CX-30 problems
The Mazda CX-30’s largest recall is 25V357, which reprograms or replaces the air bag sensor on 2024–2025 models because a low battery can switch the air bags off. Earlier campaigns cover 2020 brake caliper bolts and AWD fuel vent hoses, 2020–2021 power liftgates and a 2022–2023 ABS unit. Check any CX-30 VIN before buying.
Mazda CX-90 problems
The first-year 2024 Mazda CX-90 has the most recalls in this group. Campaigns cover a sudden loss of power steering (24V022), false automatic braking (24V349), software that can cut drive power on gas and plug-in hybrid models, a dash electrical unit and a mild-hybrid fuel gauge. Each fix is free, so confirm completion by VIN.
Mazda CX-9 problems
The most serious documented Mazda CX-9 problem is the Takata passenger air bag inflator on 2007–2015 models; Mazda told owners of unrepaired vehicles not to drive them. First-generation CX-9s also have a front ball joint corrosion recall. The 2016–2023 second generation has fuel pump, wiring harness and second-row seat recalls. Mazda ended the CX-9 after 2023.
Mazda3 problems
Mazda3 problems on record are mainly recalls. They include 2007–2009 power steering loss, corroding hatch struts on 2010–2013 models, 2016–2018 wiper failures, 2014–2018 camera faults, false emergency braking on 2019–2020 cars and the 2024–2025 air bag sensor recall. Mazda also extended dashboard coverage for sticky 2010 dashboards.
Mazda6 problems
The most urgent documented Mazda6 problem is Takata air bags: 2003–2008 cars have driver and passenger inflator recalls and 2009–2013 cars have passenger inflator recalls, all under Mazda’s do-not-drive advisory if unrepaired. Other issues include sticky dashboards, salt-state cross member rust and 2018–2019 engine-stall software. Mazda dropped the Mazda6 after 2021.
Mazda MX-5 Miata problems
The documented Mazda MX-5 Miata problems in recall data are on the 2016-on ND generation. The largest is 24V695, an air bag software fix for 2016–2023 cars that could deploy the front bags with too much force. Others cover abrupt downshifts on 2016–2019 automatics, 2018–2019 fuel pumps and a 2024–2025 stability light.
Mazda RX-8 problems
The best-known Mazda RX-8 problem is rotary engine core wear: in 2008 Mazda extended engine core coverage on all 2004–2008 cars to 8 years or 100,000 miles. The RX-8 is also under Takata driver and passenger air bag recalls with a do-not-drive advisory, plus fuel pump leak recalls from engine heat and a 2004 ball joint recall.
Confirm how a used Mazda was built before you buy.
Engine, transmission and packages decide which issues apply. The CarWhere Mazda build sheet reconstructs factory colors, options and packages from licensed VIN-level build data — availability is checked free, and it is $9.99 only when detailed build data is found for that VIN.
Frequently asked questions
What are the most common Mazda problems?
They depend on the model and powertrain. Across the 9 Mazda models covered here, the most documented items are engine control software can stall the engine (recall 19V497) on the CX-5; ABS hydraulic control unit may be damaged (recall 23V275) on the CX-50; air bag sensor unit can switch off the air bags (recall 25V357) on the CX-30. Each model page lists issues by generation with sources.
How do I check a Mazda for open recalls?
Enter the 17-character VIN on NHTSA’s recall lookup or the brand’s owner site, or ask a Mazda dealer to run it. Recall repairs are free. CarWhere’s known-issues pages list major recall campaign numbers by model and generation.
Are known issues the same as years to avoid?
No. Known-issues pages explain specific, documented mechanical problems and recalls. Years-to-avoid research ranks model years against each other, so the two answer different questions and are linked from each model page where both exist.
Sources
Each model page lists its own sources. Key references:
- NHTSA recalls database — National Highway Traffic Safety Administration
- Recalls Data (NHTSA recall campaigns, dataset 6axg-epim) — U.S. Department of Transportation open data
- Mazda USA newsroom (news.mazdausa.com) — pricing, specifications and model-year changes — Mazda North American Operations
More Mazda tools
- Mazda research hub
- Mazda trim levels explained
- Mazda engines and transmissions
- Mazda history
- Free Mazda VIN decoder
- Mazda specs by model
- Mazda reliability
- How long do Mazda models last?
Independent reference compiled by CarWhere — not affiliated with or endorsed by Mazda North American Operations or Mazda Motor Corporation. Mazda and the model names are trademarks of their owners.