2024 Mazda CX-90 recalled for engine start-stop issues

Mazda is recalling CX-90 three-row crossover SUVs because of a software problem that could prevent the engine from restarting when the engine start-stop system is used.

The CX-90 is available with mild-hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrains, but this recall only involves 2024 mild-hybrid models, encompassing 38,926 vehicles in total. The mild hybrids have small battery packs and electric motors that aren’t powerful enough to drive the vehicle independently, but provide assistance to the gasoline motor and allow for a more robust start-stop system.

These vehicles may have “improper” software in their power control modules and battery energy control modules, which can interfere with a hybrid-assist function and cause the gasoline engine to stall, according to the NHTSA. If this occurs, a “Hybrid System Malfunction” message will appear in the instrument cluster, and warning chimes may sound.

Mazda said it has received seven field reports related to this issue as of Oct. 25, but that it is not aware of any related crashes or injuries. The same powertrain in affected 2024 CX-90 models is also used in the 2025 Mazda CX-70, essentially a two-row derivative of the CX-90, but no CX-70 models are included in this recall.

The remedy is a reprogramming of both the power control module and battery energy control module, which will be performed by dealers free of charge. Mazda plans to mail owner notification letters Dec. 30. Owners can also call Mazda customer service at 1-800-222-5500 and select Option 6. Mazda’s number for this recall is 7024J.

While the CX-90 has earned an IIHS Top Safety Pick+ award in plug-in hybrid form, it’s now the subject of multiple ongoing recalls. The same day that the start-stop system recall was announced, Mazda also announced recalls for a software issue in plug-in hybrid models that could cause a loss of propulsion, as well as a recall for instrument-cluster display issues.