Hi, new member here, thanks for adding me.

I've had three Mazda in the past--a 626 and two 6s. A couple of months ago I bought a 2013 Mazda CX-5 which I have come to believe is possessed. I leave the car overnight and several times have come back in the morning to find the driver's seat reclined much farther back than I use it. Today, even weirder, I stopped for gas, which took maybe 5 minutes, when I got back in the car the seat was fully reclined! What the absolute heck is going on? A Google search told me it's somewhat of a common problem but no suggestions of how to fix it. I'm worried that one day I'll be driving and it will happen which is a scary thought. Anyone familiar with this issue; if so, what's causing it and what to do about it?

Thanks,
Cindi

 

Yes, it is a known issue.

REPAIR PROCEDURE 1. Verify the customer concern. 2. Replace the recliner switch with a modified new part according to the instructions on MS3 online or the Workshop Manual (section 09-13 FRONT SEAT SIDE COVER REMOVAL/INSTALLATION). 3. Verify the repair.

 

Thanks for this info.
So if it's a known issue, why hasn't Mazda done a recall to repair it?
If I have to have it done myself, any ballpark idea of the cost?

 

Basically, because they have admitted no fault, at least that I can find.
It's only addressed in TSB (technical service bulletin)
TSB Number:09-020-13-2808NHTSA Number:10097408TSB Date:July 11, 2013Date Added to File:April 14, 2017Failing Component:Seats:Front Assembly:ReclinerSummary:Some customers may complain that the driver side seatback reclining position seems to change by itself. This may be caused unknowingly by the customer when they exit the vehicle. The customers leg may be contacting the recliner switch

 

Since Mazda is aware and doesn't do anything, if I'm driving and it happens and I have an accident, I suppose I can sue. I'm not a litigious person but this is ridiculous. Thanks for the info.

 

Most major vehicle manufacturers operate weighing the cost of fixing something against the cost of doing nothing.
It's especially true when it concerns a low percentage of vehicles, especially older ones.
They tend to not do recalls unless they are forced to do so by their law team or another entity.
Generally, they'll pay higher insurance premiums than do recalls as they rarely end up paying any damages that "might" be awarded in a lawsuit.
Actually, most big corporations operate this way, not just vehicle manufacturers.
Ford is only recalling the Mustang SUV because the gear issue is likely a problem in all 2.9 million of them.