2023 Mazda CX-30

While attempting a left-hand turn, the steering wheel suddenly became stiff and unresponsive, as if the mechanical gear had bound. This sudden resistance made it impossible to complete the turn, causing the vehicle to strike a curb at low speed. A post-accident inspection at Lee Johnson Mazda (RO# 649854) confirmed extensive damage, including a bent inner tie rod, a damaged front wheel bearing/hub assembly, and wheel/tire damage totaling over $6,500. The dealership stated no electronic fault codes were present in the computer, but the physical behavior matches the 'sticky steering' symptoms currently under federal investigation for other Mazda models (Recall 24V022 / RQ26002). I believe a mechanical failure in the steering gear caused the collision.

I purchased a brand new 2023 Mazda CX – 30 from Cooley Mazda on September 27, 2023. I was excited to upgrade from my 2011 Mazda 3, however I have had issues early on. On June 7, 2024, I brought my 2023 Mazda CX – 30 in for diagnostic testing for front end noise and a shifting issue. I went out for a drive with the Technician and was told the noise I was hearing was from the weight of the car on the suspension, I disagreed. The Technician also experienced the shifting issue I spoke of, and I was told that the car needed to learn my driving technique, again I disagreed. At this point the vehicle only had 4014 miles on it. On July 25, 2024, I brought the vehicle in for its 1st oil change and tire rotation, as well as for the same noise and shifting issues. This time they found an issue with the front driver side front wheel bearing. They did not have the part in stock, so I had to wait for a call to schedule to come back once the part came in. Again, they claimed there was no shifting issue with the vehicle. At this point the vehicle only had 5079 miles on it. On August 7, 2024, I brought the vehicle in for replacement of the front driver side front wheel bearing. On my drive home I heard the same noise I brought it in for repair for. At this point the vehicle only had 5468 miles on it. On September 4, 2024, I brought the vehicle in for a NYS Inspection and for diagnostic testing on the noise and shifting issues, again they took the car out, did not experience the issue, but put it on the lift and did some testing which determined the car needs a new rear differential. At this point the vehicle only had 6219 miles on it. The rear differential was replaced and the vehicle still has shifting issues. It hesitates, sometimes doesn't advance when the gas pedal is pressed. The vehicle also hesitates at 38-40 and 58-60 mph while just holding your foot steady on the gas pedal.

I have been the owner of a 2023 Mazda CX-30 since July 2023. On [XXX], 2023, I received automated warnings on the dashboard and through the Mazda App stating, "ActiveSense system malfunction. ActiveSense advanced safety and driver support system may not operate correctly." The service department at the dealership where I purchased the car explained that the sensors had overheated due to the hot weather. Unfortunately, a similar warning appeared on the dashboard on [XXX], and this time it resulted in damage to the car. On that day at 13:33, while maneuvering into a parking spot in the parking garage with my foot on the brake pedal, the car suddenly and rapidly accelerated and collided with a concrete post. Fortunately, I am unharmed but shaken, and the front of the car sustained damage. Immediately after the incident, I contacted the service department, explained the situation, and requested an emergency service to assess the car. The service department conducted checks on the brakes and suspension, performing a full-circle inspection. Their report stated, "Could not find any evidence to support the customer's claim." The service advisor expressed disbelief in the issue I described, stating he had not heard of such problems before. Contrary to the service advisor's disbelief, records on NHTSA.gov reveal numerous instances of sudden unintended acceleration while pushing on brakes for Mazda CX cars (CX5, CX30, CX50). These instances have occurred and have been reported nationally/across numerous states in the USA. I am urging Mazda to thoroughly investigate all reported complaints, issue recalls for affected cars, and enhance their safety features. As of now, there have been no reported fatalities, and it is crucial for Mazda to take proactive measures in investigating and addressing our claims to prevent any potential harm caused by errors in the ActiveSense system. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)