Mazda recently recalled about 10,000 hybrid sports-utility vehicles presenting a braking issue that could lead to crashes.
The problem centers on automatic braking intended to prevent accidents, but the sudden activation happens when there are no objects to avoid hitting, the Japanese automaker says.
The 2024 CX-90 plug-in hybrid SUV’s driver-assistance system can erroneously detect obstacles, braking for no reason at speeds of up to 15 mph. That's because the system may detect a vehicle's reflection as an approaching object.
The automaker says there have been no reports of accidents as a result of the issue, though it presents the risk of a rear-end crash because there's no prior warning of the braking and the brake lights illuminate.
Mazda dealers will reprogram the vehicle control module with a software update. Mazda is scheduled to mail notices to owners on July 17, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
