Mazda CX 5’s Most Common Problems

Jun 17, 2021

The Mazda CX-5 offers modern design, solid safety ratings, and an energizing driving experience. But it has a few problems, too. We review them so you can make a sound buying decision.

20xx Mazda CX-5-photo by Mazda

The Mazda CX-5 made its debut as a compact SUV for the 2013 model year and introduced the Kodo design for the entire Mazda line. The 2013 model featured a 2.0L four-cylinder engine and a six-speed manual or automatic transmission with front or all-wheel drive.

The CX-5’s sleek styling cues set it apart from the boxier SUVs that were flooding the market at the time. It is supported by a steering and suspension system able to hug the road with confidence.

The sculpted rear greenhouse gives it a smaller cargo space compared to other SUVs in its size segment, but at a maximum of 65.4 cu. ft., there is still plenty of room for an epic road trip.

The second-generation CX-5 released for the 2016 model year and offered the new 2.5L 184-horsepower engine able to finally match the driver’s demand for excitement like other vehicles in the Mazda lineup.

New driver-centric technologies appeared, including Bluetooth integration, a touchscreen infotainment system, and a rearview camera. Driver-assist technologies were available as part of a package on the top Grand Touring Trim.

With seating for five, a fun driving experience, and respectable fuel economy on par with other machines in the compact SUV category, the Mazda CX-5 is an attractive option for the segment. But what kind of Mazda CX-5 problems have been reported by mechanics and owners over the years?

2016 Mazda CX-5 - Photo by Mazda

Problems Associated with the Mazda CX-5

As with any model that has sold a million or more vehicles, there will be some random problems reported to local repair shops and dealer service centers. The Mazda CX-5 is no different. The vast majority of these problems are unique instances, but some have appeared at a rate that earns it a spot on our list of the most common Mazda CX-5 problems.

Liftgate Props May Fail

A recall was issued in September 2016 by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to replace the struts for the liftgate on many 2013 to 2016 Mazda CX-5 vehicles. The piston was subject to corrosion, which could cause the strut to fail while holding up the liftgate.

Dealerships replaced the bad struts. If you are buying a 2013 to 2016 Mazda CX-5, have its VIN run to ensure that every recall has been addressed before you purchase it.

Daytime Running Lamps Issue

This problem is limited to the 2016 Mazda CX-5. Bad gaskets were used to install the front headlamp assembly. Moisture collected inside the lens resulting in corrosion to the control board for the daytime running lamps, which could cause the DRLs to fail.

The recall included the replacement of the sealing gasket and inspection of the headlamp assembly for corrosion. The entire assembly would be replaced if needed.

Sunroof Shatters with No Warning

No recall has been issued for this problem, but multiple owners of every model year have reported their sunroof shattering while driving on the highway from speeds as low as 45 mph. Drivers insist that nothing hit the glass or that the sunroof was damaged in any way.

Mazda has yet to recognize the persistent problem as a manufacturing defect, but the internet is buzzing about the issue. Class-action lawsuits are pending against other manufacturers including Mercedes-Benz, Hyundai, and Kia but none have been filed against Mazda at this time.

Windshields Developing Mysterious Cracks

The 2016 model year is the one with the most recalls and complaints. While there is a recall for a loose bracket on the windshield for a laser sensor, some drivers also report random cracks appearing along the top of the windshield.

At least one driver said that they did get hit by a pebble–a possible cause for the crack–but others report the problem after the car was sitting in the garage overnight.

If your machine has rain-sensing wipers and the Smart City Brake system and it develops one of these cracks, be warned that the fix will be a little pricier than a standard windshield.

As Edmunds reported on their long-term test drive, finding a replacement windshield was more difficult than expected.

Faulty Fuel Filler Pipe

The NHTSA issued Recall 16V064000 to replace the attachment point for the fuel filler pipe in the 2014 to 2016 Mazda CX-5. If the SUV was involved in a collision, there is a chance that the filler pipe could crack, leading to a fire from spilled fuel.

What else may pop up as a problem when you take it to your mechanic? Len from 1A Auto runs through some of the more common repairs he has encountered while servicing the Mazda CX-5.

2019 Mazda CX-5-Mazda

Mazda CX-5: Earning Consistently High Safety Ratings

If you are wondering about the safety of this compact SUV, it will not disappoint. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety gave the 2021 Mazda CX-5 their Top Safety Pick + Award. It also scored a Good crash rating at IIHS for the years 2017 to 2021.

Over at the NHTSA, the vehicle earned a four-star rating for 2013, 2016, 2017, and the 2018 Early Release. It scored a five-star rating for 2014, 2015, 2018 Late Release, 2019, 2020, and 2021.

For those searching for driver-assist features, they first appeared as an available package in 2016. Blindspot monitoring became standard in 2018 and the entire i-ActiveSense suite was featured on every trim level for 2020.

The smart cruise control is capable of maintaining a safe following distance while adjusting the speed on crowded highways. Lane-departure and lane-keeping technologies help to steer you straight while the blindspot detection system gives you a visible and audible alert if another vehicle is passing you on either side.

Overall, it is a compact SUV that performs well and works hard to protect you and your family while navigating busy streets.

2017 Mazda CX-5-Mazda

How Long Can I Expect My Mazda CX-5 to Last?

If you take care of your ride, you can expect your Mazda CX-5 to stay on the road for up to 200,000 miles or more. It has a remarkably durable engine and transmission, which helps it to stay on the road long after its three-year/36,000-mile warranty expires.

If you look under the car, you will find the new SkyActiv technology included in that engine and transmission. YouTube car guru Scotty Kilmer admits that it seems like Mazda and the Mazda CX-5 just may have created a sport SUV that is ready to step up to his standards.

Reliability Ratings from the Pros

Repair Pal gives the Mazda CX-5 an Excellent reliability rating. You can expect to spend about $447 a year to keep it maintained.

At U.S.News & World Report, the model has earned an above-average to average reliability score for model years 2014 to 2020.

Over at Vehicle History, the experts award the sporty 2017 SUV a 4.7 out of five rating. They love it for its spirited performance, available manual transmission, and smart abilities as a suburban explorer.

2019 Mazda CX-5-Mazda

What Owners Have to Say About their CX-5

When owners were asked what they thought about their Mazda CX-5 at Vehicle History, they provided overwhelmingly positive feedback. The 2018 earned a 4.66-star rating out of a possible five.

Drivers repeatedly praise its handling and affordable price for such a versatile SUV. It is not quite as big as a RAV4 or CR-V, but it makes up for the lack of room with personality.

If you are driving the 2013 with its 2.0L engine, you can even earn a very respectable 35 mpg highway, saving even more at the pumps.

2019-Mazda-CX-5

Is the Mazda CX-5 a Smart Buy as a Used Compact SUV?

In the end, the Mazda CX-5 has relatively few problems associated with the model over its entire production run. Even those more common issues are not likely to leave you on the side of the road waiting for a tow truck.

If you are on the hunt for a sporty compact SUV that is fun to drive and is capable of carting the kids and their gear to school, this is a great vehicle to put on your shortlist while shopping for a used ride.

Photos: Mazda

Frequently Asked Questions

Apr 7, 2022

Do Mazda CX-5 have a lot of problems?

The Mazda CX-5 is overall considered to be a good car with very few problems. The most common issues that are reported with them involve the electrical systems and the lights on them. The most common of these problems is that the daytime running light LEDs fail prematurely. This is a common problem that Mazda has acknowledged, and has been fixing for owners.

The next most common complaint people have is that their brake pads wear out quickly. This is primarily because the brakes on the CX-5 are not that big and it takes a decent amount of force to stop the SUV, so they may need to be replaced more often.

The third most common problem is that owners say that the windshield breaks easily. This is common across all of the model years and is something that Mazda has not addressed at this point. It could just be a production issue, but it is something to keep in mind if you are looking at a CX-5.

Is the Mazda CX-5 a reliable car?

The Mazda CX-5 scores a 4.5 out of 5 stars for overall reliability. This puts it at the top of the list for reliability for a midsize SUV, and it should be able to last well over 200,000 miles with this near-perfect reliability score. Mazda had some issues with reliability in the past when they were part of Ford, but since they have gone independent their reliability ratings have increased year after year.

The Mazda CX-5 also has much lower ownership costs than average, which makes it an affordable vehicle to own for the long term. The national average is about $650 per year in maintenance costs, and the CX-5 is about $200 cheaper at only $450 per year in expected maintenance costs.

The CX-5 is a great vehicle to look at if you are looking for an SUV that can stand up against the test of time. Mazda has improved its quality over the years and it shows.

What year Mazda CX-5 is best?

There are two generations of the Mazda CX-5 and both of them are considered to be very reliable. The first generation was produced from 2013 through 2016, and the second generation has been made since 2017.

The 2016 model year is where there are the most reported complaints, but there are still fewer complaints than most of the competition. In general, you cannot go wrong with any model year, but the best value seems to be on the 2014 models. This is a good year for the CX-5 because they have become very affordable, and there is still plenty of life left in them.

With a CX-5 you should be able to get well over 200,000 miles of service out of them, so finding a 2014 with under 100,000 miles will give you a great deal on an SUV with a lot of life left in it. Overall though it is best to just get the newest CX-5 that fits into your budget.

Owner Reviews

Write a Review

SAM on August 1, 2021

NEW 21 CX5

This is NOT what I expected. It does not run well as many claim. I got it brand new and has been in the shop 2x with transmission issues and now for the AC compressor making horrid noises. The car sounds like a wind up toy with a lawn mower engine. It has a HORRIBLE turn radius. Going around on curvy roads you have to be very careful even at low speeds. They never checked the roll over crash for the roof so there are NO ratings on that as they would like to pretend its so safe, I doubt it. I took a long trip and it burned more gas at a cheaper price than my 20 year old TAHOE!! I mean this is NOT what all the fake reviews make it to be. Its impossible for anyone to like this car. Either the reviews are all fake and paid or I got a lemon.

Aurel Stuart on May 31, 2022

Poor Highway Mileage

We get good in-town mileage (25-26 mpg), but terrible highway mileage. On three highway trips we get from 23.5-24 mpg as opposed to the 30 miles per gallon as advertised. This is with their heralded CX-5 Grand Touring Reserve. The dealer states that all is okay since the average is on target, even though their two-day test drive on the highway for 40 miles at 75 mph showed that the mileage dropped by 3 mpg. Support from the dealership is terrible. It's has now been two months since we complained and all we get is the run-around. We complained to Mazda headquarters and they just referred things back to the dealership ... And no one has followed up for the last two weeks.

Diane on October 20, 2021

2016 Mazda CX-5 having serious problems

2 weeks after getting this vehicle I had problems with it. The electrical system of the car wasn’t working they towed my car to the closest dealership and i had a rental for 2 weeks. 2 years later and 80,000kms The Center console latch broke it’s a plastic clip and My check engine light would turn on and then turn off randomly. I didn’t get it check right away because I thought it wouldn’t be a big deal if it turned off on it’s own. Finally I had it checked out and found out my catalytic converter was broken and with further examination they found that my gasket was broken. I really don’t understand how such a new vehicle can have so many problems.

Dennis me Jacoby on June 24, 2021

Dennisgarage20@yahoo.com

2017 CX-5 Touring, 63,000 miles, the biggest concern I have is that I have been getting rust spots on the roof panel between the windshield and the sunroof, they are blistering the paint, I do not see any chips in the paint, I have some stone chips in the hood but no rust spots or paint blistering.Thr brakes also had to be replace when it was around two and a half years old, I believe Mazda uses low grade materials on there brake rotors. Also the seats are not that comfortable if you are going on a long drive. Otherwise I haven't had any major problems, I would rate my CX-5 at 3 1/2 stars.

Rebecca M on March 9, 2023

My 2016.5 CX-5 is plagued with display screen problems

On its own, my display screen will activate from menu screen into navigation, compass, audio, radio, contacts mode. Sometimes it will start to dial the first number in my contacts.Service has suggested I remove the nav chip twice but it has not made any difference. Software is updated; it has to be a bad circuit board? I don't see this problem mentioned anywhere else. I wonder if buying a new circuit board would solve it. Also, the display screen itself is poorly visible in bright sunlight. 3/9/2023

Sam on February 22, 2023

2013 CX 5

Lots and lots of recalls. Gear box went after 5 years, problems with suspension and new shock absorbers after 8 years. Steering rattling, front wheels rattling - on less smooth roads. Now after 9 years, turbo just about to stop working and will cost £2000 to fix. Warned that when turbo goes, other problems follow. Such a lovely car, fab to drive, pokey, economical - doing 46mpg- but looks like it's on it's way out and not even 10 years old!

T Spalding on March 30, 2022

Yes, there are issues with my mazda CX5 (2015). The engine inspection light does come on occasionally, but only for small things. Had to change the battery at 56 000 miles. No big deal (did it myself). Connecting android phone to the car is currently my biggest problem - it won't download all the contacts off my phone (only 25 of them!) but found a reset to try. Everything else is working fine for 56 000 miles

Nicole W on August 1, 2021

Interior of 2016 Mazda cx-5 is disappointing.

Poor reliability with interior has fallen apart with normal use requiring expensive repairs. Bluetooth capabilities are inconsistent for a 4 year old vehicle. I overall would not recommend this car to a friend or family member. Interior improvements would be necessary to keep the car for more than another year.

Laurie C on June 10, 2021

There is an awful steering wheel in the 2016 CX-5

The steering wheel is awful. Where the cross bars are set it interferes with where you want to put your hands. The visibility in the car is not great and the backup camera is poor quality. If I were asked to recommend this vehicle to someone I would not be able to confidently do so.

Bob Mustang on November 27, 2021

Running Lights Expensive Repair on 2016 CX-5

Enjoyed the car handling and looks ($30,000 price tag), But the running lights in the housing assembly is one whole unit, when the running lights go out, you will have to pay $1,000 per each light assembly, my vehicle is 3 years old with 40k miles.

Fred on October 10, 2022

Great car

Read previous reviews. It appears Mazda has many more problems in northern countries compared to Australia. My nearly 5 years old 2017 touring petrol with 86,000km only problem with both exterior mirrors replaced due to failure to move.

Melissa M on October 16, 2021

2016 Mazda CX-5 has cheap interior and does not work for my height

It does not have enough power. Inside trim looks nice but parts are breaking and falling apart shortly after purchasing brand new. Blind spots if you are short. Radio dial and controls for heat/ac or too far away and awkward.

Catherine McCauley on July 8, 2021

2013 Mazda CX-5 Sport Trashy Transmission

I had my vehicle at the dealership on Friday questioning a recent discovery of a whining sound and I was told I need a new transmission. The vehicle has been on the road for 7.5 years and has 92,200 km on it.

Tiffany N on August 12, 2021

2015 Mazda CX-5 has bad lighting and blind spots.

The blind spots are terrible and the headlights are dim, unless you have the high beams on. Same for the lights when you reverse. The hatch is roomy, but the lighting in the back hatch area is very dim.

Cece N on September 11, 2021

2015 Mazda car experience.

The longer I have had it does allow me to see the issues it comes with. The car sluggishly drives sometimes making it hard to make turns. This is very concerning due to this being a safety issue.

Tara D on June 25, 2021

2015 Mazda CX-5 does not do well in rain.

One problem is that the backup camera is not lit up well and doesn't show well in rain. There is not an ac vent in the back which sometimes makes it uncomfortable for back seat passengers.

Pieter on May 19, 2022

2017 Mazda CX5

Very happy with the car, has done 220000km with it without any issues. Only issue is the fuel consumption is a bit high but besides that i am very happy with the vehicle

Skyler M on July 26, 2021

Awesome little 2013 Mazda CX-5 affordable payments.

Some issues with the drive belt after 80, 000 miles not sure how normal that is for Mazda brand vehicles, was not super expensive to get fixed at the mechanics.

Mar on November 1, 2023

Car doesn't turn off

I have read on other sites that many people have this problem it should be a recall. When it rains a couple of inches of water collect in the floor wells.

Laurie C on November 20, 2021

Do not buy a 2014 CX-5. You will not be satisfied.

I would never buy a Mazda again. They used to be great but Mazda has chosen to go low budget. The car does not have features one assumes is standard.

Susan S on October 26, 2021

A few issues with my CX-5 from 2015

Fuel mileage is not fantastic, lot of road noise when driving, seats are uncomfortable. Window wiper and washer fluid are hard to change and refill.

John on August 23, 2022

Cx-5 2021 model problems

Bought it new and believe it is a lemon. Transmission plus drive ability issues. Dealer says it is just fine. It drives like an older used Buick.

David B on October 6, 2021

2014 Mazda CX-5 Sport is a reasonably affordable, well performing crossover vehicle.

I have had very few problems with it although currently, the seat belt chime sounds for no reason even when the seat belt is fastened.

Colleen M on June 10, 2021

2014 CX-5 feels cheap inside

Interior is plastic and feels cheap, pieces often pop off inside. Issues with Bluetooth connection and does not allow song skipping.

Dawn on July 18, 2021

Issues with 2014 Mazda CX-5 sensors

Biggest issue is the SBS sensor, had it to the dealer it is the front camera that’s bad, wanted $ 1,200 to replace & reset.

Ron on September 8, 2021

E brake failure in 2016 Mazda CX-5

E brake module failure. Shorted electrical system. Same issue as Mazda 6 but Mazda won't recall the cx5. Car has 49k mile.

ng kt on January 24, 2023

Suspect break system problem

Model madza cx5 years 2017 emergency break are less function a lot of madza unit car at workshop accident is on front part

Shem on February 12, 2022

Windshield

It shattered mysteriously, my mechanic told me it could be heat, I can't find a repair with sensors here locally in Kenya

Derek H on June 13, 2021

Honest review of the 2013 Mazda cx-5.

The only problem is that my car's brakes wore down after a couple of years of owning and I had to replace all of them.

Nan C on July 5, 2021

Lack of creature comforts in the 2016 CX-5

Do not have many features. The air conditioner is not as big as it should be. There are no cup holders in the back.

Juliette M on August 23, 2021

2015 CX-5 needs more power for city driving.

The cx-5 I own just feels underpowered. I am used to a vehicle with more pickup when touching the accelerator.

Larry J on June 18, 2021

You get what you pay for. Don't expect too much from the 2014 CX-5

Some parts of the inside wall is falling off. It requires a lot of maintenance.

tracy K on August 3, 2021

Not happy with mpg and interior of my 2016 CX-5

It chews up gas. It has issues with the NAV screen. It looks cheap inside.

Michelle B on November 12, 2021

2013 Mazda CX-5 I am not crazy about it.

Always have problem with batteries, staring the car, etc.

Ron on May 29, 2022

2020

I have not had one issue in two years great suv

Payton M on September 26, 2021

Mazda cx-5 2013, very good speakers.

The navigation does not work.

S.D. Grady

Sonya is a vastly experienced journalist who loves to share her passion for everything automotive. You can usually find her at the track covering NASCAR, taking a test drive, or drooling over the latest models at the local auto show.