Mazda recalled the 2024 CX-90 in early 2024 to address a "sticky steering" defect, a sudden, unexpected increase in steering effort that could catch drivers off guard, especially at highway speeds. Nearly two years later, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has launched a new investigation after 26 drivers reported the same problem in vehicles that had already been repaired. Two crashes have been linked to the issue. Here's everything you need to know.
The Original Recall: What Mazda Tried to Fix
In January 2024, Mazda issued Recall 24V022 affecting approximately 44,000 2024 CX-90 SUVs. The problem: excessive friction in the worm gear inside the electric power steering system.
How it works: The worm gear distributes power assistance from the steering motor. When friction builds up, the steering wheel can suddenly become harder to turn, a phenomenon NHTSA describes as "sticky steering." The defect was traced to a faulty spring inside the gear, supplied by Hitachi.
Mazda's fix: Dealers replaced the spring with an upgraded unit, applied fresh lubricant, and installed a software update designed to detect the problem before it occurred. On paper, it seemed like a permanent solution.
The Investigation: Why Regulators Are Looking Again
The NHTSA's Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) launched Recall Query RQ26002 on January 26, 2026. The investigation covers 43,752 model-year 2024 CX-90s sold in the U.S.
"After receiving the recall 24V022 remedy, consumers report sudden increases of steering effort while driving," NHTSA wrote in its announcement. "Sudden and unexpected change of steering effort while driving may increase the risk of a crash."
Notably, Mazda previously stated that CX-90 owners would receive no warning before experiencing this issue.
Two Crashes, No Injuries
The investigation documents confirm two crashes possibly linked to the steering defect. However, regulators have no record of injuries or deaths resulting from the problem.
The crashes occurred after the recall repairs had been performed, raising serious questions about whether Mazda's fix actually addressed the root cause.
Timeline of Events
Investigation Scope and Key Questions
| NHTSA Investigation ID | RQ26002 |
| Vehicles Covered | 2024 Mazda CX-90 (43,752 units) |
| Original Recall | 24V022 (Jan 2024) |
| Investigation Focus | Whether recall remedy effectively addressed steering defect |
| Secondary Focus | Root cause of continued failures after repair |
The Technical Issue: Worm Gear Failure
The defective component is a worm gear within the electric power steering system, supplied to Mazda by Hitachi. These gears are essential for distributing power assistance from the steering motor, providing the smooth, effortless steering drivers expect from modern vehicles.
In the CX-90, excessive friction in the worm gear—caused by a faulty spring—translates significant force back to the driver, making the steering wheel suddenly harder to turn. The problem can occur intermittently and without warning.
What Happens Next for CX-90 Owners
Current status: At this point, owners don't need to take any immediate action. The NHTSA hasn't issued a new recall, and Mazda hasn't provided additional guidance.
Possible outcomes:
- The ODI determines the original recall was adequate → investigation closed
- The ODI finds the remedy insufficient → Mazda must issue a revised repair in a new recall
Regulators are evaluating both whether the 24V022 fix was effective and why steering abnormalities continue to occur after repair.
What Owners Should Do Now
- Monitor your steering: If you experience any sudden increase in steering effort, even briefly—document it.
- Report problems: File a complaint with NHTSA if you experience sticky steering after recall repairs.
- Stay informed: The investigation is ongoing; check for updates on NHTSA.gov or your Mazda owner portal.
- Safety first: If steering becomes difficult while driving, reduce speed gradually and find a safe place to stop.
"Modern cars are so full of technology that they have introduced new potential issues in the process. Mazda and its customers know this firsthand after a recall in early 2024. It was supposed to address an issue described as 'sticky steering' in the CX-90 of that model year. Now, nearly two years on, the issue may not be entirely resolved." Carscoops
"For owners, if your steering feels off, even for a second, make a note and report it. That kind of feedback is what gets these investigations moving in the first place." Sun Herald
Mazda's Response (So Far)
As of February 2026, Mazda North America has not issued a public statement regarding the new investigation. The company is expected to cooperate fully with NHTSA to determine the root cause and appropriate next steps.