Mazda CX-90 Under Federal Investigation for 'Sticky Steering' Issues

More than 40,000 SUVs are now being looked into after a previous recall may have led to fresh concerns.

Jan. 29, 2026 at 4:15pm

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The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has opened an investigation into more than 43,000 units of the 2024 Mazda CX-90 SUV after a previous safety recall fix may have created new steering problems. Consumers have reported sudden increases in steering effort while driving, which NHTSA says could increase the risk of a crash.

Why it matters

The CX-90 is Mazda's flagship SUV, and any safety issues with its steering system could pose a serious risk to drivers. This investigation highlights the challenges automakers face in resolving complex mechanical problems, even after issuing a recall.

The details

The initial recall, filed in January 2024, aimed to fix a faulty worm gear inside the steering system that could lead to random increases in steering effort. Mazda believed replacing a spring inside the worm gear with an upgraded unit would solve the problem, but the federal safety watchdog has now received 26 complaints of 'sticky steering' since the recall. NHTSA says the sudden and unexpected change in steering effort while driving may increase the risk of a crash.

  • The investigation was officially opened on Monday, January 26, 2026.
  • The initial recall was filed in January 2024.

The players

National Highway Traffic Safety Administration

The federal agency responsible for investigating vehicle safety issues and overseeing recalls.

Mazda

The Japanese automaker that manufactures the CX-90 SUV.

Hitachi

The company that provided the defective worm gear component to Mazda for the CX-90's electric power steering system.

Emmet White

The associate editor at Road & Track magazine who reported on this story.

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What they’re saying

“After receiving the recall 24V022 remedy, consumers report sudden increases of steering effort while driving. Sudden and unexpected change of steering effort while driving may increase the risk of a crash.”

— NHTSA

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.