2024 Mazda MX-5

The vehicle has a recurrent malfunction of the Adaptive Front-lighting System (AFS), part of the exterior headlight system and advertised as a safety feature within Mazda’s i-ACTIVSENSE® technology. The failure presents as a dashboard warning stating: “Headlight System Malfunction. Have the vehicle inspected.” The affected components remain installed and are available for inspection upon request. This malfunction poses a potential safety risk because it affects a system intended to improve visibility during night driving and around curves, creating uncertainty about headlight performance under low-visibility conditions. The issue has been confirmed by an authorized Mazda dealer, which recorded fault logs related to the headlight system. The vehicle has been inspected multiple times. Repairs performed include replacement of the headlamp wiring harness and replacement of the entire headlamp assembly, but the malfunction continues and has increased in frequency over time. The problem first appeared intermittently over a year ago, progressed to weekly, and now occurs daily. The failure occurs under normal driving conditions, including at very low speeds (approximately 5 mph) while exiting a parking lot. One documented instance occurred with the engine still cold (blue low-engine-temperature indicator illuminated), indicating no aggressive driving. Several additional occurrences happened below 35 mph with no harsh steering or acceleration. Suggestions that this is related to “spirited driving” are contradicted by observed conditions and video evidence.