About this episode
Mazda is facing fresh legal pressure in the United States, as a class action lawsuit filed in Virginia targets its flagship three-row SUV, the CX-90. The case, brought by plaintiff James R. Burnell, alleges persistent brake noise and erratic Lane-Keep Assist behavior, with claims that the same issues could affect 2024 to 2026 model-year CX-90 SUVs. And this isn't the first time Mazda has faced scrutiny over its CX-90's brakes, either.Persistent Brake Squeal Points to Deeper Fault
James Riswick
One of the major claims in the lawsuit is that the CX-90 suffers from premature brake deterioration, resulting in constant squealing under normal driving conditions. According to the filing, what began as a minor irritation developed into a recurring issue. Burnell initially purchased a dealer-driven 2024 CX-90 but returned it shortly after due to its Lane-Keep Assist system staying active unexpectedly. After switching to another 2024 CX-90, he alleges the problems persisted, this time accompanied by squealing brakes. Over two years, the vehicle was taken to dealerships numerous times, yet technicians repeatedly classified the behavior as normal. After taking his car in for a recall, the dealer diagnosed his CX-90 as suffering from "scuffed brake rotors and pads." Eventually, in September 2024, the original dealer applied an anti-squealing lubricant. After that, the dealer had to replace the entire brake system. Despite this, the noise returned almost immediately. The lawsuit argues that such repeated failures point to a design or manufacturing defect rather than routine wear. It further alleges Mazda had prior knowledge of similar brake-related concerns on other models, but not explicitly the CX-90.Lane-Keep Assist Raises Safety Concerns
Zac Palmer
Alongside the braking concerns, the lawsuit places significant focus on the CX-90’s Lane-Keep Assist system. The complaint alleges that the system can deliver overly forceful steering inputs that conflict with the driver’s intended direction
