2019 Mazda CX-9

I am reporting a serious safety issue involving a defective suspension part (lower control arm) manufactured by Dorman and purchased from an online auto parts retailer. On October 7, 2024, I ordered a Dorman lower control arm for my vehicle and had it professionally installed on November 7, 2024 at Johnston and Magwood Wheels & Tires. On November 8, 2024, at approximately 5:40 p.m., while I was driving and made a hard brake, I suddenly lost steering control and my front left wheel collapsed. Fortunately, I was the only one in the car and managed to avoid an accident. My vehicle had to be towed to a nearby shop (Kal Tire) and was later sent back to the original shop for further inspection. On November 12, technicians confirmed that the newly installed lower control arm had failed, which caused serious damage to the suspension. I paid $1,774.10 in repairs in order to make the car safe to drive again. This is extremely dangerous — if I had been driving on a highway or with passengers, it could have resulted in a major accident or injuries. When I contacted the retailer about the warranty, they only offered to refund the part itself and refused to take responsibility for the damages caused by this defective product. I believe this part should be investigated for safety defects. When I searched online, I noticed Dorman has had similar recalls on control arms, which makes me even more concerned. I am reporting this incident to NHTSA in hopes that you will look into this part to protect public safety.

Failed water pump, blown head gasket, major coolant leak, and warped head causing the vehicle to overheat and die when coming to a stop. Vehicle died when stopped in construction on a highway and we were nearly rear-ended. Vehicle never showed check engine light and temperature gauge never showed that vehicle was overheating but significant damage was caused to the engine from “excessive temperatures.” Failure of warning signals allowed us to continue driving the car with a significant engine issue. Now the entire engine needs replaced at only 83,000 miles. Car was diagnosed by licensed independent repair shop. Additionally, front struts went out at approximately 40,000 miles making the car wobble at higher speeds. Was inspected and replaced by dealership.

The front end especially on the drivers side front suspension. The noise seems to be coming from the control arms and ball joints area. I have reported this to the dealership many times since purchasing the vehicle new. They continue to say that there is no issue but the noise is not going away. I believe it is associated with this TSB but no recall has been made. I am very concerned as the steering feels looser than usual and may cause an accident. TSB 10170655 - DESCRIPTION Some vehicles may exhibit one or more of the following noises from the front suspension: 1. A creaking noise from under the front of the vehicle (front lower arm bushing) when driving over bumps at approximate 12 - 25 mph (20 - 40 Km/h). The noise occurs when the road surface is wet or after the vehicle has been washed. The noise becomes more noticeable as the bumps get higher. The creaking noise is caused by the front lower arm bushing (A) making a stick-slip noise during wet road conditions. 2. A clunking noise from the front coil spring when driving over bumps. The clunking noise is due to stick- slip between the front strut bearing (B) and the coil spring (C). 3. A popping noise from the bump stopper (D) when driving through gutters.

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2019 MAZDA CX-9. WHILE DRIVING IN REVERSE IN ORDER TO PARALLEL PARK THE VEHICLE, THE FRONT AXLE FRACTURED AND CAUSED THE FRONT DRIVER'S SIDE TIRE TO BEND INWARDLY. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO GARDEN CITY MAZDA (LOCATED AT 209 NORTH FRANKLIN ST, HEMPSTEAD, NY 11550, 516-292-7827) WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE TIE ROD FAILED AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE HAD NOT BEEN REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE AND PROVIDED CASE NUMBER: 1/239794329. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 10,600.