This Service Alert supersedes the previously issued SA listed below: The changes are noted in Red. SA-011/24 02/12/24, 06/06/24, 07/29/24 DESCRIPTION Mazda has developed factory recommended scheduled maintenance services that support all major vehicle systems. Mazda recommends dealers follow the scheduled maintenance tables as cited in the vehicle-specific workshop manual or owner's manual. Services performed outside of Mazda's factory scheduled maintenance are not recommended. These services are unnecessary and create unneeded expenses for your customers. SCHEDULED MAINTENANCE Refer to the applicable Workshop Manual or Owner's Manual for vehicle -specific manufacturer scheduled maintenance.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗2025 Mazda CX-90 powertrain problems
moderate Owners of the 2025 Mazda CX-90 have filed 3 NHTSA complaints about the powertrain at roughly $2,500 to repair (U.S. federal records, as of August 2026). Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation. See powertrain across all vehicles →
Owners are still filing on this — the most recent NHTSA powertrain complaint for this vehicle was logged 20 days ago.
Is there a fix? Manufacturer service bulletins
The manufacturer has issued service bulletins covering powertrain on this vehicle — documented repair instructions, service campaigns, or warranty extensions sent to dealers. A TSB isn't a recall (it's not a free safety remedy), but it's the manufacturer acknowledging the issue and how to fix it.
2024-2026 CX-90 and 2025-2026 CX-70 Engine Warning Light Illumination with DTC P0DAB CONDITION OF CONCERN On certain subject vehicles, the engine warning light may illuminate, and the vehicle may be limited to engine-only operation due to activation of the fail-safe mode. Motor assist, i-stop and motor regenerative functions may be disabled, although the vehicle is safe to drive. The DTC P0DAB (Cell voltage variation malfunction) may be stored. Causal factor: Improper software in the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) and - MHB in MDARS display - BECM (Battery Energy Control Module). OUTLINE OF REPAIR Reprogram the PCM and MHB with the Mazda Modular Diagnostic System (M-MDS), using Mazda Diagno
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗The 7G large platform utilizes a new 8-speed automatic transmission. Due to changes in the parking lock mechanism, which is now hydraulically operated, the neutral range in the transmission can only be achieved if the engine is running (or “Ready-On” for PHEV). With this design, there is no provision to manually engage neutral. This can cause challenges to dealers, customers, or towing providers when a vehicle cannot start and can't move, usually due to a discharged (dead) battery. In the event that a vehicle cannot be started or achieve “ready-on”, wheel dollies must be used to allow the vehicle to be rolled and moved. NOTE: The following procedure is for moving vehicle around the service s
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗When inspected, the differential or PTO oil is dark or black. This is considered normal and NO repair should be performed. During production, differential ring and pinion gears receive a manganese phosphate coating (commonly referred to as black oxide). This coating forms a porous, oil-retentive surface that improves boundary lubrication and reduces adhesive wear during initial contact cycles. Designed as a sacrificial layer, it is gradually removed under load throughout the break-in process. As a result, after the first few hundred miles, or at the initial gear oil service interval, the lubricant may appear darkened by the worn-off coating. It will contain trace ferrous particles from the n
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗A New Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF-A7) is being used for some 2023-2026 models. ATF-A7 is an extremely low viscosity formulation with low friction to achieve best-in-class fuel economy and driving performance. For easy identification, ATF-A7 is colored Red and ATF-FZ is colored Blue. ATF-A7 includes UV-reactive dye (see "Fluorescence Example" below). There is NO interchangeability between ATF-A7 and ATF-FZ. For CX-30, Mazda3, and CX-5, some 2.5L and all 2.5T engines still use ATF-FZ. Verify the type of ATF according to what is in MGSS (TRANSMISSION/TRANSAXLE TECHNICAL DATA) or what is marked on the dipstick (see "ATF-A7 Identification" below).
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Source: NHTSA manufacturer communications. Bring the bulletin number to your dealer or shop.
What owners are reporting 3 most recent
ISSUE 1 – UNINTENDED DECELERATION (Power Train): While driving at highway speeds (60–80 mph) with foot off accelerator for approximately 5+ seconds while coasting, the vehicle unexpectedly executes a sharp, single downshift causing sudden unintended deceleration and an RPM spike. No warning lights illuminate. Documented on 11 occasions between May 20, 2026 and July 29, 2026; incidents occurred…
I own a 2026 Mazda CX-90 hybrid with approximately 13,000 miles. The vehicle began making a grinding noise while driving, which has progressively worsened over time. It has since developed a hard knocking noise accompanied by noticeable vibration when the vehicle shifts gears. This knocking occurs during normal in-town driving. I have taken the vehicle to the selling/authorized Mazda dealership…
My car is literally stalling out on me. It started by sputtering when I put my foot on the gas a week or so ago. Then today It literally started just losing power while driving. It’s not throwing any codes but that’s super dangerous and this car is only a year old. I am extremely concerned for my safety.
Common questions
How serious is the powertrain problem on the 2025 Mazda CX-90?
It's a documented issue but not catastrophic. 3 complaints have been filed. Repairs average $2,500 and most owners catch it before it causes a breakdown.
At what mileage does the powertrain typically fail?
Mileage data is limited for this issue. Owners report failures across a wide range, suggesting cause is more about driving conditions and maintenance than mileage alone.
What does it cost to fix?
Independent shops typically charge around $2,500 for powertrain repairs on this vehicle. Dealer pricing tends to run 20-40% higher. The exact figure depends on the specific failure mode, parts availability, and your local labor rates. If you're outside factory warranty, an extended service contract often covers this category.
Are there any recalls related to powertrain?
No active recalls currently cover powertrain issues on this vehicle. The complaints filed represent owner-reported failures that haven't risen to the level of a manufacturer-issued recall — but they're still worth knowing about before you buy or budget for repairs.