NHTSA Complaint #11613144 — 2024 MAZDA CX-50

While driving on a highway, a small pebble impact caused a windshield star on a Mazda vehicle. Within hours, this star developed into a full crack from the left driver A-pillar to the center of the windshield without any further impact. A few days later, two more pebble impacts on a 50-55 MPH roadway immediately caused another vertical crack from behind the windshield mirror mounting area straight downward. The windshield, a critical safety component, appears to be failing under minimal impact, potentially compromising the structural integrity of the vehicle and putting occupant safety at risk. This could lead to reduced visibility, increased risk of injury in the event of an accident, and potential for the windshield to fail completely while driving. The manufacturer (Mazda) was contacted and initially issued a warranty claim number, recommending the windshield be replaced and retained for inspection. However, after replacement, Mazda declined to inspect the glass, citing inability to examine it before replacement, despite their initial instructions. The vehicle owner reports no prior warning lamps, messages, or symptoms before the failures occurred. The owner also notes that they have extensive driving experience with multiple vehicles over 40 years and have never experienced such windshield fragility, suggesting a potential systemic issue with Mazda windshields. Similar experiences have been reported by other Mazda owners on message boards, indicating a possible widespread issue with Mazda windshield integrity. The manufacturer's reluctance to investigate this potential safety concern, despite initial assurances, raises questions about their commitment to addressing this issue. This complaint is filed to bring attention to what appears to be a safety concern regarding the integrity of Mazda windshields and their ability to withstand normal driving conditions and minor impacts without catastrophic failure.