Mazda5 Problems: 9 Most-Common Issues (Explained)

The Mazda CX-5 is renowned for its marvelous design and easy handling. Even with an above-average reliability rating, there are still a few problems found in the vehicle.

Below you’ll find the Mazda 5 vehicle’s most common issues.

1. Clutch Control

Many users report that they have a problem with accelerating the vehicle after it completes 50,000 miles.

Consumers say that the vehicle resists accelerating without any apparent TSBs (technical service bulletins). A few say that replacing the clutch does the job, but clutch replacements for the models are no less than $1,100.

There was no confirmation by the automaker that it was a slipping clutch issue.

However, in 2013, Mazda released a statement on a transmission issue, requiring consumers to add correct transmission fluid to their vehicles to prevent any accelerating problems when the vehicle has been driven a couple of miles.

The reduced acceleration issue was only found in Mazda 5 units with manual transmissions.

Usually, this problem arises when the friction disc is loose against the flywheel and it slips, disrupting the transmission.

2. Malfunctioning AC

A user of the 2010 Mazda model reported that after they had driven the vehicle for a complete 40,000 miles, the air conditioning started malfunctioning without an apparent cause in sight.

The user reported that the problem was discovered after the AC was turned ON, it created a very loud vibration.

If the vehicle is still under warranty, you won’t have to pay for the repairs.

Refrigerant leaks are the most common cause of AC malfunction in automobiles.

Some electrical problems can also cause the Mazda 5 vehicle’s air conditioning system to fail.

3. LED Light Failure

Being one of the most reliable vehicles on the market, the Mazda CX-5 is also equipped with stylish features such as daytime running lights (DRLs).

The daytime running lights are switched ON when the driver pulls the handbrake down.

But, in the 2016 Mazda 5 model, the automaker had to recall more than 30 thousand units due to defective DRLs.

The recall happened after about 40 of the 2016 Mazda CX-5 owners filed complaints against DRL failure in the newer models.

A few users said that the lights would blink before they shut down completely.

The problem was that the light bulbs could not be replaced without the entire system due to the design of the vehicle.

The repair costs are very high because the whole lighting system has to be replaced.

Mazda later found out that the gaskets were emitting sulfur which blocked the wiring of the bulbs, preventing them from functioning at all.

Check more in this list of known problems with CX-50 models.

4. Windshield Shattering

If there’s one thing that protects you against road accidents, it’s the windshield of your vehicle, but the 2016 Mazda 5 vehicle had a rather sensitive windshield that was prone to cracking due to any slight external force.

Many users reported that the contaminants and debris on the roads hit the windshield and easily put scratches on it.

Consumers had to replace the entire windshield for a very high price to fix the problem, as the original Mazda CX-5 windshields were easily shattered.

5. Engine Shuts Down

Multiple users reported that the engines of the 2006 models of Mazda 5 were prone to failure and resulted in expensive repairs.

The owners who faced the problem said that it happened after the vehicle had been driven 100,000 miles.

According to the user complaints, the engines shut down while the vehicle was driven at normal speed, and there was no increased acceleration involved.

Users who took their vehicles for repairs reported that not only were the repairs expensive, the issue was caused by a defective timing chain in the engine bay.

But the damage done by the belt was severe and could not be fixed, so the entire engine of the Mazda CX-5 had to be replaced.

A few users reported that sometimes, the engine would shut down and crank back up during daily commutes.

It would take them twice as much time to park the vehicle and temporarily fix the issue.

The automaker did release a TSB for VVT (variable valve timing) to address the ticking noise coming from the engine but there was no statement issued regarding the user complaints about the engine shutdown.

6. Liftgate Prop Failure

Many 2013-2016 units of the Mazda CX-5 had a liftgate prop issue where the piston would be corroded, which would cause the struts to fail.

The NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) issued a recall for all vehicles that had the liftgate problem in September 2016, following user complaints.

The faulty struts were replaced and could not hold the liftgate up. Most users took their vehicles to dealerships for repairs.

After that, consumers who bought the 2013 to 2016 models of Mazda CX-5 got a VIN (Vehicle’s Identification Number) run to determine whether or not the recall for the liftgate issue had been addressed..

7. Faulty Filler Pipe

Most 2014-2016 Mazda 5 vehicles have a faulty filler pipe which could lead to the vehicle exploding if it ever suffered a severe accident.

Faulty filler pipe meant high chances of the pipe cracking in a collision.

The NHTSA issued a recall for all vehicles in 2014 to replace the faulty filler pipes for vehicle and driver safety.

8. DPF Warning Light

A few Mazda CX-5 owners reported that the DPF warning light was flickering on the dashboard when they inspected the Diesel Particulate Filter; it had been blocked.

The DPF will clog if the vehicle remains idle for longer intervals and is not used as much.

DPF blockage is not a big issue as you can get rid of the blockage by allowing the DPF to heat up (during a 10-15 minute drive) and burn all contaminants clogging it.

9. Shock Absorber Failure

Some consumers reported that the vehicle would feel rough from the rear ends when driving over speed bumps, indicating a shock absorber failure.

A possible cause behind this issue could be the absorbers leaking.

Replacing the shock absorbers will fix the issue.

General Pros and Cons of Mazda 5

Pros:

• The Mazda CX-5 has a very stylish design.
• The seating arrangement is very comfortable.
• There are two engine choices in the Mazda 5, the V4 base engine that gives about 187 horsepower and the turbo V4 with 277 horsepower.
• The vehicle gives a sporty feel and offers a smooth drive.
• The Mazda 5 has some advanced tech features such as an integrated navigation system, device connectivity ports, system upgrades, Bluetooth connection, etc.
• The seating arrangement is highly comfortable, with a luxurious design.
• The vehicle has rich safety features, such as automatic emergency braking.
• The model has 6 trim levels with the base trim offering standard features at a reasonable price.

Cons:

• The vehicle has a slipping clutch.
• The windshield is prone to cracking.
• The diesel particulate filter gets blocked.
• Premature brake wears failure,

What Do the Reviews Say?

The Mazda CX5 has a 10.25-inch display infotainment system that offers navigation among other features.

The vehicle also has sufficient cargo space.

“I decided on the CX5 premium plus and so far couldn’t be happier! It’s fun to drive, has very comfortable leather heated and ventilated seats, a great sounding Bose sound system, and on and on! Definitely check this one out.”

(Source: Edmunds.com)

“The 2019 version has been flawless, and we expect the same from the 2022 model. With AWD now standard, Mazda provides the best value compared to its competitors.”

(Source: Edmunds.com)

All driving controls are easily reachable from the driving seat.

Apart from cargo space, the CX-5 has a spacious leg room.

The exterior of the Mazda CX-5 vehicle is luxurious and elegant.

What’s The Resale Value of the Mazda 5?

The Mazda SUVs generally hold their value well (low depreciation).

Was this article helpful?

ⓘ  The information in this article is based on data from National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recall reports, consumer complaints submitted to the NHTSA, reliability ratings from J.D. Power, auto review and rating sites such as Edmunds, specialist forums, etc. We analyzed this data to provide insights into the best and worst years for these vehicle models.