Mazda’s compact CX-5 SUV is a true contender in its class, sporting many exclusive features typically reserved for higher-end models. Unfortunately though, for some owners, the premium Bose sound system has been problematic, causing sound failure and odd speaker behavior.
Key Points
- Mazda issued a technical service bulletin for its CX-5 SUVs from 2013 to 2015 over potentially defective power amplifiers.
- Owners say the speakers struggle or cut out entirely, but that the rest of the features work as usual.
- Mazda rectifies the problem of speakers randomly cutting out by replacing the amp with an updated unit.
- Second-generation CX-5s see several owners mentioning erratic behavior when changing audio sources.
- Unfortunately, no fix has yet been released by Mazda for the CX-5 Bose system’s problem with erratic unpredictable behaviour.
Sound May Cut Out in Mazda CX-5s from 2013-2015 With Premium Nine-speaker Bose Audio System
Mazda CX-5 owners have complained of problems with the Bose sound system as early as 2013, the SUV’s debut year. Most mention the speakers barely working or cutting out entirely, but all other features work as usual.
“We have [a] 2014 CX-5 Touring with the Bose sound system. Recently the sound on the stereo stopped working completely,” shares one owner on Mazda Forum. “The touchscreen works, the Bluetooth connects to my phone, I can choose a radio station, but nothing generates sound.”
The thread concludes with a defective amp being culprit. Sure enough, Mazda sent out a service bulletin for models from 2013 to 2015 confirming problems with power amplifier in the CX-5’s premium Bose sound system.
Owners can bring their cars to a local Mazda service center for a modified replacement amp.
Switching Audio Sources, Using Maps Causing Odd Speaker Behavior in Newer CX-5s With Bose Sound System
Digging deeper into problems with the Mazda CX-5’s Bose audio system, a number of owners mention strange speaker behavior when switching sources.
“When I listen to tunes via CarPlay or Bluetooth, I only get sound out of one speaker… with the radio, I get sound out of the other speaker… adjust radio volume, I can get blips of sound from both, but it doesn’t sustain,” says another Mazda Forum poster regarding their 2021 CX-5.
The issue doesn’t just affect the CX-5, as owners of Mazda 3s and 6s mention identical problems on different automotive forums. In general, reports seem to mention models from 2016 and newer, right as the CX-5 debuted its second generation.
Unfortunately, no fix has been shared by owners, and Mazda hasn’t yet acknowledged anything either. But many consider it a technical or software issue over defective speakers.
Don’t Let a Few Isolated Incidents Keep You from Enjoying a Mazda CX-5 With the Premium Bose Sound System
There aren’t a lot of common problems with the sport utility vehicle’s Bose audio system.
But there are enough consumer reports about problems that you should be diligent when shopping for a CX-5.
Turn the volume up, change the settings, check the navigation, and watch for anything acting up.
Photos: Mazda
