Mazda Recalls More Than 171,000 CX30 and 3 Models Over Faulty Air Bags

Written By: Jessica Anvar Stotz
Legally Reviewed By: Jessica Anvar Stotz

100% or 171,412 vehicles are affected by Mazda’s 2025 airbag recall. This includes specific 2024 and 2025 model year Mazda3 sedans and hatchbacks, as well as CX-30 compact SUVs.

The issue stems from a defect in the Sophisticated Airbag Sensor (SAS) unit, which can disable the airbags under certain conditions, greatly increasing the risk of injury in a crash.

The problem occurs when the vehicle’s battery is completely drained after the ignition switch is left in the “ON” position for two hours or more without the engine running.

When this happens, the SAS unit may store a fault code that prevents the airbags from deploying.

Owners can also check their vehicle’s recall status by entering their Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) on the NHTSA website or by contacting Mazda customer service directly at 800-222-5500 (option 6).

What’s Wrong with the Mazda 3 and CX30 Air Bags?

The problem with the airbags in the 2024 and 2025 Mazda3 and CX-30 models is caused by a software malfunction within the Sophisticated Airbag Sensor (SAS) unit, which is a critical component of the airbag control system.

The recall specifically targets vehicles equipped with the affected SAS units, identified through production records.

Vehicles not included in the recall have been equipped with improved parts that do not exhibit this issue.

The defect occurs when the vehicle’s battery becomes completely drained after the ignition switch is left in the “ON” position for two hours or more without the engine running. Under these circumstances, the SAS unit stores an internal fault.

This fault does not arise if the battery drains for any other reason. Once the battery is recharged and the vehicle restarted, the airbag warning light will illuminate on the dashboard.

More importantly, in this condition, the airbags will be disabled and will not deploy in the event of a crash.

The core of the problem lies in the SAS unit storing a false internal fault when the battery is fully drained while the ignition remains on.

When power is restored and the vehicle is restarted, this fault triggers the airbag warning light and disables the airbags.

This defect poses a significant safety risk because airbags are a vital safety feature designed to protect occupants during collisions.

If the airbags fail to deploy due to this software malfunction, vehicle occupants face a substantially increased risk of injury.

Which Vehicles Are Affected?

Mazda’s 2025 airbag recall impacts specific models from the 2024 and 2025 model years. The affected vehicles include:

• Mazda3 (sedan and hatchback) — 51,857 units
• Mazda CX-30 (compact SUV) — 119,555 units

In total, approximately 171,412 vehicles are covered by this recall. These vehicles were manufactured between May 2023 and January 2025 at Mazda’s production facilities in Mexico and Japan.

How Will Mazda Handle This Issue?

Mazda is addressing the airbag issue affecting the 2024 and 2025 Mazda3 and CX-30 models through a thorough recall and repair program.

To resolve the problem, Mazda will first reprogram the Sophisticated Airbag Sensor (SAS) unit with updated software.

If the software update does not fully correct the issue, the SAS unit will be replaced entirely. All repairs will be performed free of charge, regardless of whether the vehicle is still under warranty.

Mazda will begin mailing official recall notifications to affected vehicle owners by July 28, 2025. These notices will provide clear instructions on how to schedule a repair appointment at a nearby authorized dealership. It is important for owners to watch for this notification in order to take timely action.

Vehicle owners can also check if their Mazda is included in the recall by entering their 17-digit Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) on Mazda’s official recall website or the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recall lookup tool.

This provides an easy way to confirm recall status and access additional support.

What Should I Do If My Mazda Is Included?

If your Mazda has been included in the recent airbag recall, follow these essential steps to protect your safety and ensure your vehicle is properly serviced:

1. Verify Your VIN: Use Mazda’s Recall Lookup or the NHTSA’s online recall tool to check your vehicle’s status. You’ll need your 17-digit Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), which can be found on your registration, insurance documents, or at the base of the windshield on the driver’s side.
2. Watch for the Official Recall Notice: Mazda is expected to mail official recall notifications by July 28, 2025. This letter will include important details about the recall and instructions for scheduling your repair.
3. Schedule a Complimentary Repair: Once you’ve confirmed your vehicle is affected, contact your local Mazda dealership to schedule a repair appointment.
4. Address Airbag Warning Lights Immediately: If the airbag warning light is illuminated on your dashboard, it may indicate a serious malfunction. Avoid driving the vehicle until it has been inspected by a certified technician.
5. Keep Documentation: Even though the repair will be performed at no cost to you, it’s important to retain a copy of the repair invoice or any documentation from the dealership. This can serve as proof of compliance should future issues arise.

Get Connected with the Lemon Law Experts’ Lemon Law Attorneys

The recent recall involving over 171,000 Mazda3 and CX-30 vehicles highlights the serious safety risks caused by software malfunctions in critical systems like airbags.

When an essential safety feature such as the airbag sensor fails, it puts drivers and passengers at increased risk in the event of a crash.

If your 2024 or 2025 Mazda3 or CX-30 has been subject to repeat warranty repairs for these or similar issues, you may have legal options under your state’s lemon law.

These laws may entitle you to compensation, a vehicle replacement, or a buyback if the defect remains unresolved.

Since 2009, the Lemon Law Experts have successfully represented thousands of consumers with defective vehicles.

Contact us today for a free consultation to see if your Mazda qualifies. Don’t wait while critical safety issues remain unaddressed—take the first step toward a resolution today.