What 40 owners told NHTSA about the 2025 Mazda Cx-50

Brake booster failure in less than two years of ownership. It seems to be an issue with A LOT of these models. Very unsafe to have any brake failure

NHTSA ODI 11748108

I previously reported the auto breaking system would slam on breaks prematurely. Now it was a factor in an accident where the Mazda CX-50 was rear-ended by a Ram 2500 truck at full speed on the highway. Car is incompaitated and I have suffered injuries.

NHTSA ODI 11746992

CRUISE CONTROL SURGES BEYOND NORMAL LIMITS, HAS TRIED TO TAKE CURVES ON EXITS SO FAST THE TIRES SLIDE AND I HAVE TO SLAM ON THE BRAKES. ALSO, WHEN PULLING OUT FROM BEHIND A CAR, THE CRUISE CONTROL KICKS IN TOO FAST AND IS FLYING TOWARD STOPPED CARS, AND I HAVE TO USE THE BRAKE TO STOP IT OR REAR-END THE CAR IN FRONT OF ME. ALSO, THE FUEL SYSTEM WOULD NOT ALLOW ME TO FILL UP THE GAS TANK, AND I WAS STRANDED. COMPUTER WOULD NOT OPEN THE FUEL TANK FOR ME TO PUT FUEL INTO IT. HAS TO PRY THE ENTIRE ASSEMBLY OFF AND BREAK IT. THEN FUEL WOULD NOT GO INTO THE FUEL TANK, AIR PRESSURE KEPT TURNING OFF THE PUMP. AFTER THOSE INCIDENTS GOT THE CAR BACK FROM THE DEALER AND TWO DAYS LATER IT WAS COMPLETELY DEAD IN THE GARAGE, NOTHING WORKED, LOCKS, BACK LATCH, ETC. WHEN THEY RECARGED IT THERE WERE DOZENS OF CODES ON.

NHTSA ODI 11742406

When approaching cars at an intersection, the brake warning does not give any warning, but the cars brake, lock up, and throw me and anything in the seat flying into the floor or side compartment. It was not even necessary to stop that quickly. Totally random and could cause an accident.

NHTSA ODI 11742408

I rented this vehicle from Enterprise (EAN HOLDINS LLC) in Collierville Tn. on 5/19/25 I rented the vehicle to attend a funeral in Virginia. I drove 1803 miles there and back. While it was raining and cold, I used the seat heaters on and off when I noticed that my legs and gluts began to become irritated and inflamed. Once I finally was home late that night, I observed that I had been burned on legs and glut area. The areas were red and inflamed. That morning I had blisters and large red/purple bruises which I began documenting with photos. I went to see my doctor who stated that I had 1st and 2nd degree burns which he then photographed and documented in my chart and prescribed some meds. Today the areas are still numb but appear to be healing. I did report this incident to Enterprise locally and I also made a complaint with the company's corporate office 1800 numbers. These car seat heaters are extremely dangerous

NHTSA ODI 11740251

The issue is that the rear window spontaneously shattered. My car was parked in the driveway at the time. I got into the driver seat, like usual, and closed the door with normal velocity. Immediately after closing the door, I heard a 'crinkling' sound that my brain couldn't identify. I looked into the back seat to see if I could see what had made the noise, but didn't see anything that answered that question. As I looked into my rear view mirror, before starting the car, I saw blue sky - which wasn't usual (the window is tinted dark). I turned around again, and saw that I was seeing Through the back window. My initial thought was that the hatch was up. I got out of the car, went to the back, and discovered an utterly shattered window. I would say that most of the glass bits fell into the car, but a fair amount fell onto the driveway. At first, I supposed a neighbor kid may have accidentally thrown a big rock and hit the window, but there was no rock to be found. I might have considered a branch from an area tree, but there was zero wind and no culprit branch. There was no obvious object that might have been blamed. I called my husband out to look and as I retold the story to him, I realized that the mystery 'crinkling' noise was certainly the window shattering in that moment. Btw, he had driven the car to the store in just the prior hour or two and all had been well. I contacted the Mazda dealership. They said their technician would have to look at it before authorizing it as a warranty item. We made the appointment, wrapped the window in Saran Wrap as best as able, and brought it in. They concurred that there was no obvious reason, that they could see, as to why it shattered. Nonetheless, Mazda did not authorize a full replacement of the window, but did authorize the dealership to offer a good will gesture of $300 toward replacement. There had been no indication that there was any impending issue and no obvious prior cracks or dings in the rear window.

NHTSA ODI 11739916

Emergency brake came on as I was backing out of parking space, pausing to double check for traffic not seen on camera. The emergency brake froze on "on" and car was stuck, unmovable, in traffic lane. The emergency brake would not release when put in reverse or drive. The same problem happened again the next day in forward. Two different dealers were not able to duplicate the problem. No warning lights came on.

NHTSA ODI 11739471

TO NTSA - 2025 Mazda CX-50 Premium Turbo Plus - Purchased [XXX] - Less than 2,000 miles Driving north on [XXX] , I took exit [XXX] . When slowing to change to the right-hand lane, it surged then rapidly accelerated. Stepping on the brake did not slow it down, increased acceleration. To avoid hitting cars in my lane, I jumped the curb to the frontage road, continually pumping on the brake. The left front wheel and axle broke off and landed 20 ft away. The vehicle did not slow down; It was stopped by snapping a power pole in half. While trying to grab my purse, two Good Samaritans yelled at me to get out of the car, it was smoking and there were power lines overhead. Miraculously, I walked away. The Mazda salesman we purchased from was notified with photo. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA ODI 11739636

Stopped at a convenience store in [XXX] . Upon return to vehicle, it would not start. A check engine light and steering alert came on. According to ChatGPT it appeared to be an electrical problem. AI recommended that the vehicle be "rebooted". That entailed putting the car in Park, turning the ignition off, turning off all accessories, getting out of the car, locking it with the FOB, and walking away from the car with the FOB. Don't return until after 5 minutes or more. The second incident occurred on the out skirts of [XXX] . The instrument panel went dark for a half a second or so. Once it became illuminated, another warning alert appeared: Telematics Communication Unit Malfunctioned. AI suggest not turning ignition off until we reached our final distination. Have a dealer run a diagnostic scan on the voltage system. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA ODI 11736877

Door handle cables detach easily which prevents the door from being opened from the inside. It has happened to me twice on my driver side door the last 5 months. Research online shows this is a very common problem with newer Mazdas and it is a major safety hazard as it prevents easy exit from the vehicle in the event of an emergency, especially if there is power loss so the windows cannot be opened.

NHTSA ODI 11735272

Burns and scarring on my thigh from the heated seats

NHTSA ODI 11728407

I am reporting a potential safety-related defect in my 2025 Mazda CX-50 Preferred, which is approximately four months old. On one occasion, the vehicle moved backward while in Drive mode. This occurred twice on the same day under similar conditions on a slight incline. After starting the vehicle, I shifted into Drive and applied acceleration; however, the vehicle moved backward instead of forward. The rearward motion continued despite active acceleration input. This behavior is not consistent with normal rollback on an incline. The continued backward movement under acceleration indicates a possible issue with transmission engagement, gear recognition, or electronic control systems. I reported the issue to an authorized Mazda dealer. I was informed that shifting the gear too quickly may cause a delay in system response, resulting in the vehicle behaving as though still in Reverse. I consider this explanation unacceptable for a modern automatic vehicle and indicative of a potential defect. This condition presents a safety risk. Unintended rearward movement while in Drive could lead to collisions, especially in situations involving other vehicles, pedestrians, or objects behind the vehicle. Although the issue has not reoccurred since that day, the intermittent nature raises concern about reliability and the potential for recurrence without warning. I request that this issue be investigated as a potential safety defect.

NHTSA ODI 11727755

After about six months of ownership, a knocking noise started happening from the front of the vehicle when turning the wheel all of the way to the right. A month or so later I brought it to a Mazda dealership in Green Brook, NJ. I was told by the service advisor that she had the same vehicle and was advised that this was normal. She explained everything exactly as I had experienced it. She told me I could wait in the dealership for 3/4 hours, but the technicians would most likely just tell me the same. Over time, the suspension deteriorated. Bumps felt more and more noticeable and a lot of noise inside the cabin. Specifically, a lot of vibrating on the right side of the vehicle: windows, front passenger seat, and the trunk window. Looking over the internet, it seems like this problem is apparent in multiple vehicle years, but never properly addressed via a recall: [XXX] . The vehicle is currently in Sansone Mazda in [XXX] . They replaced the right CV and the problem did not go away. I was told they would have to contact Mazda corporate. They did and I was then advised that they would need to replace the left CV axel, as well. Not surprisingly based on the frequency of this issue, that part was unavailable and on back order. I don't know how long I'll be without my car at this point. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA ODI 11727563

There is a recall for earlier models regarding "break clunk." The parking break, when sitting overnight in cold or wet environments, makes a loud bang noise when going into motion for the first time. The parking break seems to be sticking to something.

NHTSA ODI 11726766

The tire on the front driver's side was bad. I had it assessed at Ogeen K auto and he said they put a used tire on the vehicle. The other three were brand new. The noise I was hearing was coming from the tire. And was causing the vehicle to pull. My safety was put at risk because Iwouldd need a longer stopping distance. Sliding, the vehicle pulling to one side, and the spare tire was missing. They covered the hole with a piece of cardboard. I spoke to the employee at Hertz and told him the day he gave me the vehicle. There were no lights or warning lamps on.

NHTSA ODI 11723051

Driver side and passenger side axle-area, making loud clicking and popping sounds on turns indicating major damage to CV joint, at around 10,000 miles. Primarily heard on sharply turned wheel acceleration. Two dealerships said they "couldn't reproduce the issue" even though I showed them the issue on recorded video. I demand that this be taken seriously as a recall.

NHTSA ODI 11722637

Clicking /rattling noise when turning

NHTSA ODI 11722141

Mazda CX-50 at 22000 miles CV joint on passenger side making clicking sound under moderate acceleration. Scheduled service with dealer on 1/28 received appointment date of 3/2 for inspection and possible repair.

NHTSA ODI 11719854

Driver side and passenger side axle-area damage, making loud clicking and popping sounds on turns indicating major damage to CV joint, at around 5000 miles. Primarily heard on sharply turned wheel acceleration, particularly on slightly uphill inclines.

NHTSA ODI 11719878

Vehicle CV joints failed at 6000 miles, dealership took over 3 weeks to replace them. They claimed multiple CX50 hybrid vehicles are impacted and lots of them already returning under the same problem

NHTSA ODI 11718410

Vehicle: 2025 Mazda CX-50 Hybrid Mileage at first failure: ~6,000 miles Component: Front CV boot / axle assembly — loss of grease Safety Concern: Early-life component failure with unresolved uncertainty in root cause Description: At approximately 6,000 miles, the left front CV boot of my vehicle was found leaking grease. The dealership initially stated the failure was due to “external impact,” but no conclusive evidence was presented to support this determination. The photos and inspection notes did not identify a clear puncture or specific point of impact. Mazda Corporate later informed me that their engineering team concluded the issue was not related to a material or manufacturing defect, and offered a goodwill repair. However, the underlying root cause remains uncertain due to the lack of definitive evidence. Safety relevance: A CV boot failure at such low mileage is extremely unusual for a modern vehicle, and premature loss of grease from the CV joint can lead to: joint degradation, reduced steering stability, potential loss of vehicle control. If similar early-life failures occur on additional Mazda vehicles, this may indicate a broader design, material, or assembly concern. Requested Action: I am submitting this report for documentation purposes in case a pattern emerges or if the issue recurs on my vehicle or others.

NHTSA ODI 11717752

At only about 6,100 miles and during my vehicle’s first service, the technician found grease leaking from the left front CV boot. The dealer stated this was caused by an external puncture, but they were unable to provide clear evidence, detailed photos, or a written diagnosis proving that the damage was external. The mark they referenced was extremely small and not consistent with a clear impact. A CV boot should not fail at such low mileage, which raises concerns about a potential early-life component failure or material defect. A torn CV boot can lead to CV joint wear, loss of power, or loss of vehicle control if it progresses. Because the root cause is uncertain and the failure occurred unusually early in the vehicle’s life, I am reporting this to NHTSA in case this represents a broader quality or safety issue affecting other vehicles of the same model.

NHTSA ODI 11717760

I brought my vehicle to Modern Mazda of Thomaston, CT on Friday January 30, 2026 due to a front-end passenger clunking noise that occurs during left turns. The master tech test-drove the vehicle to duplicate the noise and video of the damage. I was informed that the front passenger axle was leaking grease in video and recommend to replace the front axle. I was told the necessary parts are on back order 6-8 weeks. I was told Mazda is aware of the manufacturer workmanship defect in the CV axle parts. The service manager did provide written documentation ordering the parts. I did file a complaint with Mazda Corporate, documenting the issue and the dealership's findings as well as I was informed the fact Mazda is seeking a new supplier of CV parts. A Mazda corporate case number was assigned. I believe this is a safety issue and a recall should be issued.

NHTSA ODI 11717460

I get an error that rear side radar obsured, I activsense temporarily disabled almost everytime I drive at freeway speeds. It disables the blind spot monitoring making the vehicle less safe. It disables for long periods of time in all conditions. Took to Mazda and they indicated it’s an issue, but no solution.

NHTSA ODI 11716562

On December 3, 2025, the front seat of our 2025 Mazda CX-50 Hybrid caught fire while the vehicle was being used under normal conditions. The fire originated inside the seat, causing visible burning, charring, and damage to the seat material. This incident occurred approximately 6–8 weeks after purchase. The vehicle was brand new at the time of purchase and had not been modified, misused, or repaired prior to the incident. The fire occurred inside the passenger compartment, creating a serious and immediate safety hazard. Had the fire spread, it could have resulted in severe injury or death. The incident caused fear for occupant safety and required immediate action to prevent further damage. ehicle Use and Conditions The vehicle was being operated normally No collision or external fire occurred No smoking or open flames were present No aftermarket modifications were made The vehicle had low mileage consistent with recent purchase Repairs and Manufacturer Response The vehicle was taken to the dealership. The dealership has stated they will replace the damaged seat and return the vehicle. However: The exact cause of the fire has not been clearly explained It is unclear whether the fire was caused by: Seat heater malfunction Electrical wiring defect Short circuit Hybrid electrical system component Replacing the seat alone does not address whether there is an underlying electrical or manufacturing defect that could cause a recurrence. Safety Concern A fire occurring inside a brand-new hybrid vehicle’s seat presents an unreasonable risk to occupants. This defect substantially impairs the safety of the vehicle. There is ongoing concern that the issue could happen again, potentially with more severe consequences. We are submitting this complaint so the issue is documented, investigated, and reviewed for potential safety defects affecting other vehicles. I

NHTSA ODI 11710494