Mazda · Known Issues

2026 Mazda CX-90 Problems: 1 Known Issue

2026 model year · NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports · Updated September 2026

2026 · All trims · All engines

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All 1 Known Issue

On the 2024-2026 Mazda CX-90, cX-90 owners report that after starting the vehicle the electronic shift-by-wire selector will not come out of Park: the P indicator stays lit, the lever moves but the transmission stays in Park, and the vehicle cannot be driven. Mazda documented the condition in dealer bulletin SA-065-23 (intermittent inability to shift out of P after starting) with a companion bulletin SA-018-24 on parking lock mechanism operation. The CX-90 uses a monostable electronic shifter with a solenoid-operated park lock rather than a mechanical linkage, so the release depends on the vehicle reaching a 'ready on' state and on brake-switch and shift-control module inputs — part of why the vehicle also enforces a short delay after power-up before Park will release. Owners have also been stranded when a depleted 12V battery leaves the vehicle locked in Park with no mechanical release path, which is why this failure regularly turns into a tow.

Common Symptoms

Cannot shift out of Park after starting the vehicle
P indicator remains illuminated regardless of lever movement
Shift lever moves but the transmission does not engage a gear
Vehicle immobilized in a driveway, garage or on a trailer
Condition intermittent and often clears after an ignition cycle

How to Fix

First, confirm the intended sequence: wait for the 'ready on' indication, then allow the full delay (roughly three seconds) with the brake firmly applied before selecting D or R — many complaints resolve here and no repair is needed. For genuine faults, Mazda's SA-065-23 procedure has the technician turn the ignition ON, wait 10 seconds and cycle the selector into and out of Park ten times to re-learn the park lock mechanism, with shift control module reprogramming where indicated; SA-018-24 covers park lock mechanism operation when relearning does not hold. All of this is warranty-covered on a vehicle this new. Because the park lock is electric, keep the 12V battery healthy — a weak or dead 12V battery will leave the vehicle locked in Park, and the emergency park release procedure in the owner's manual should be located before you need it. Out of warranty, expect roughly $150-$600 for diagnosis plus shift control module or park-lock actuator work.

Typical repair cost:$0 - $600

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Medium ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Aug 2026

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common Mazda CX-90 problems?

According to Au7o's research across NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports, the 2026 Mazda CX-90 has 1 documented issue. The documented issue is: Intermittent Inability to Shift Out of Park — Shift-by-Wire Park Lock Release Fault (TSB SA-065-23 / SA-018-24). None are rated critical, but regular maintenance is recommended.

Is the Mazda CX-90 reliable?

The 2026 Mazda CX-90 has 1 known issue compiled from NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports. None of the matching records is rated critical; this is not a complete reliability assessment. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.

How much does it cost to fix common Mazda CX-90 problems?

Repair costs for known Mazda CX-90 issues range from $0 to $600, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.

What is the 2024-2026 Mazda CX-90 Intermittent Inability to Shift Out of Park — Shift-by-Wire Park Lock Release Fault (TSB SA-065-23 / SA-018-24)?

CX-90 owners report that after starting the vehicle the electronic shift-by-wire selector will not come out of Park: the P indicator stays lit, the lever moves but the transmission stays in Park, and the vehicle cannot be driven. Mazda documented the condition in dealer bulletin… Repairs typically run $0-$600. Severity: medium.