Mazda Cx-5 problems
The Mazda CX-5 is a compact crossover SUV produced by Mazda since 2012. A successor to both the Tribute and the slightly larger CX-7, it is Mazda's first model to feature the "Kodo" design language and the first model to be fully developed with a range of technologies branded as Skyactiv, including a rigid, lightweight platform combined with a series of engines and transmissions to reduce emissions and fuel consumption.
Since 2019, the CX-5 is positioned above the smaller CX-30. As of 2022, depending on the region, the CX-5 is positioned right below the larger CX-50, CX-60 or the CX-8 within Mazda's crossover SUV line-up.
The CX-5 has been the worldwide best-selling model offered by the brand every year since 2014, with record sales in 2019 when 444,262 units were sold globally. As of March 2022, cumulative sales of the CX-5 has reached around 3.5 million vehicles.
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Mazda Cx-5 model years
Common Mazda Cx-5 problems
Common Problems with Mazda CX-5 Cars
The Mazda CX-5 is a popular compact crossover SUV, known for its luxury features and affordable price. However, like any vehicle, it has its share of common problems. Here are some of the most frequently reported issues based on complaints from owners:
- Daytime Running LED Light Failure: This issue is particularly common in the 2016 Mazda CX-5, with an average cost to fix of $1,000 and typically occurring around 45,000 miles. The daytime running lights fail, which can be a significant safety concern.
- Unexplained Acceleration While Brakes Were Applied: This problem has been reported in the 2019 Mazda CX-5, with an average cost to fix of $2,600 and typically occurring around 14,000 miles. This can be a serious safety issue, as it can lead to loss of control of the vehicle.
- Windshield Easily Cracks/Divots: This issue has been reported in the 2015 Mazda CX-5, with an average cost to fix of $700 and typically occurring around 26,000 miles. The windshield can crack or divot easily, which can be a safety concern and also an annoyance for drivers.
- Faulty Ignition Coils: This was a common problem in the early models of the CX-5, particularly in the first generation (2012-2016). Many owners reported losing power while driving, which can be a significant safety concern.
- Control Short Circuit: This issue can cause the engine to cut out and reduce brake assistance. It has been reported in the 2012 to 2017 CX-5 models, with an average quote for electrical fault diagnostics of £61.49.
- Daytime Running Lamps Flickering: This issue has been reported in the CX-5 models, and can be caused by an electrical fault within the vehicle. It can result in the daytime LED running lights flickering or failing completely.
- Fuel Pump Impeller Failure: This issue can cause fuel pump failure, and has been reported in the 2012 to 2017 CX-5 models. The average quote for engine light diagnostics and repair for this issue stands at £57.53.
- Headlight Problems: This issue has been reported in the Mazda CX-5, where a defect in the LED or high-intensity discharge headlights can cause the lenses to appear milky white, reducing lighting ability.
- Handbrake Problems: This issue has been reported in the Mazda CX-5, where the handbrake can randomly engage itself without any manual influence. This can pose a risk to the driver and others on the road.
- Transmission Problems: Both the Mazda CX-3 and Mazda CX-5 models have been noted for a string of transmission issues, including shifter vibration and other problems. These issues have been attributed to SKYACTIV Technology, which Mazda uses in these models.
These are just some of the common problems reported by Mazda CX-5 owners. It's important to note that not all vehicles of this model will experience these issues, and many will run smoothly without any problems. However, potential buyers should be aware of these common issues and consider them when making a purchasing decision.
What is the major problem of the Mazda CX-5?
We recommend staying away from the 2014 and 2016 Mazda CX-5. These recorded more complaints compared to the 2013, 2015, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, and 2021 model years. The most common complaints cover electrical problems, engine problems, interior accessories, and issues with the lights.
Is the Mazda CX-5 a reliable vehicle?
In our 2023 What Car? Reliability Survey, the CX-5 (in diesel form) ranked 10th out of 24 cars in the large SUV class with an overall score of 94.6%. Petrol models came 16th with a score of 92.9%.
What is the weakness of the Mazda CX-5?
Noise isolation is the weak point of the Mazda CX-5. In the first models, the noise from the engine did not make it possible to talk in the cabin. After re-styling, the sound insulation was slightly improved, but the crossover is still far from competitors in this indicator.
Does Mazda CX-5 have transmission problems?
Among the most reported problems with Mazda CX-5 is transmission-related issues. Some owners have experienced jerky shifts, hesitation during acceleration, or even complete transmission failure. This could be attributed to faulty transmission control modules or clutch problems.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Mazda Cx-5 years
We have researched Mazda problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Mazda Cx-5 cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Mazda Cx-5 model years:
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Mazda Cx-5 model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Mazda Cx-5 years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Mazda Cx-5 car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Mazda Cx-5 , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Electrical system problems
- Engine problems
- Unknown or other problems
- Power train problems
- Exterior lighting problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Mazda Cx-5 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Cx-5 model years
A total of 85 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by Cx-5 model years
There were a total of 10 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by Cx-5 model years
There were a total of 53 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
The NHTSA has received 1649 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Mazda Cx-5 . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Mazda Cx-5 vehicles.
Latest 25 complaints
Mazda Cx-5 2019
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-23
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-25
- VIN: JM3KFBCM2K1
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: I have 115k miles on my 2019 CX5. Never has any issues. Now all of a sudden I have a cracked cylinder head leaking oil. I was smelling smoke but mot seeing it. I took into dealership they noticed oil dripping thus why smell. Its a $4500-5000 job. I cannot afford this. This should not happen at this kind of mileage. My warranty just expired too. Mazda needs to cover these type of repairs
Mazda Cx-5 2016
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-25
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-25
- VIN: JM3KE2CY8G0
- Components: VISIBILITY/WIPER
- Summary: Front windshield wipers stopped working, front windshield washer still working. Fuse was checked, fuse is good.Vehicle is available for inspection upon request. My safety is put at risk because of lack of visibility when driving in rain. The problem has been confirmed by a Mazda dealership. The vehicle and the components have been inspected by a Mazda dealership. No warning lights or messages appeared before or after the front windshield wipers stopped working. So if a person is driving the car, there is no indication that the front windshield wipers will not work if it starts raining and the driver would need to use the front windshield wipers. This is a safety hazard because the driver will not be able to see, possibly causing an accident. This Mazda CX5 does not have automatic front windshield wipers (they do not come on automatically when it starts raining).
Mazda Cx-5 2020
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-20
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-20
- VIN: JM3KFABM3L0
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VISIBILITY/WIPER,BACK OVER PREVENTION
- Summary: Display went dark and did not display. This is not the only time it happens. It acts like someone’s touching the screen even when in motion. It prevents the reverse camera from displaying.
Mazda Cx-5 2016
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-17
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-17
- VIN: JM3KE4DY6G0
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: The contact owns a 2016 Mazda CX-5. The contact stated that upon approaching the vehicle he observed a small crack on the top left corner of the windshield. Over time the crack proceeded to progress across the windshield. The contact stated that the windshield was not impacted by an object or projectile. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was not taken to the dealer or an independent mechanic. The vehicle was repaired, but the failure reoccurred. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 40,000.
Mazda Cx-5 2020
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-26
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-15
- VIN: JM3KFABM8L0
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: Low oil light came on at 52,764 miles, 300 miles before the next oil change on the manufacturer-recommended 7500 mile schedule. I've switched to a 5000 mile oil change schedule and will be monitoring oil level going forward for excessive oil consumption. I have always done oil changes every 7500 miles and have followed all other maintenance prescribed in the manual.
Mazda Cx-5 2019
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-15
- VIN: JM3KFBCM5K1
- Components: POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: Car failed while on highway driving 60 mph with the engine and power steering turning off instantly. A day prior the dash was blinking warnings. Mazda of Lodi replaced the entire transmission plus other parts. Just made it under warrantee. Would have cost 5k once expired.was told half the fleet of 2019 were recalled but not the second half of production for some reason even though they both experience the same failure.. also had 22,000 miles at end of the. Something smells in Denmark
Mazda Cx-5 2019
- Date Of Incident: 2023-08-14
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-15
- VIN: JM3KFADM4K1
- Components: POWER TRAIN,ENGINE
- Summary: The vehicle starting stalling, check engine light would come on, and the vehicle would slipped into “limp mode” while traveling on the freeway. I was amount in two auto collisions because of the vehicle slowing down in the middle of the highway. The problem started in August 2023 and was towed to the dealer on one occasions and towed to my home on another occasion. The dealer ran a diagnostic and said it was the brand new battery I had installed and then the catalytic converter. After repairing both; the vehicle proceeded to not drive over 30 miles per hour. The dealer said it was the engine and then said it was something else. I’ve expressed that the symptoms are those more aligned to the PCM issue recalled on 2019. A actual diagnostic report from Auto Zone supports this. The vehicle has also been inspected by another Mazda dealer and a stand alone mechanic.
Mazda Cx-5 2017
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-14
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-14
- VIN: JM3KFABL8H0
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: The vehicle – display has a ghosting issue with the screen keeps on changing without me, touching the controls. It will switch from one function to another function independently, and sometimes the screen goes blank. This display was replaced under recall in 2020 and I’m starting to have similar problems now in 2024 for the last 10 months. When the screen goes blank, this compose a safety hazard.
Mazda Cx-5 2017
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-12
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-14
- VIN: JM3KFBCL5H0
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: Twice now, my 2017 Mazda CX-5 stalled on the highway with a check engine light popping up--both times was driving around 60-70mph for a couple of hours and had about a quarter tank of gas left. The first time, no code was found, but the second time, after a deeper diagnostic, the dealership found a P0192 code. After reading here and many other places online, based on the code and the car's behavior, it really sounds like the Denso low-pressure fuel pump is to blame; that's the source of the recall for 2018 and 2019 Mazda CX-5s experiencing this same issue [XXX] ). If the 2017 model also uses that fuel pump, why isn't it included in the recall? If this dangerous and erratic car behavior is due to a faulty part, it really should be covered by the recall. Shame on you, Mazda. Lives are at risk. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Mazda Cx-5 2019
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-30
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-13
- VIN: JM3KFBDM1K0
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: At 49k miles and 4 months out of warranty, the car began leaking oil and smelling like smoke. The dealer diagnosed with a cracked cylinder head and repaired it.
Mazda Cx-5 2019
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-11
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-11
- VIN: JM3KFBEY9K0
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: Infotainment screen malfunctions, pressing buttons by itself.
Mazda Cx-5 2019
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-03
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-10
- VIN: JM3KFBDY1K0
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: CX5 Cylinder head cracked at 53,500 miles. Was driving when received engine overheating and pull over immediately warning. The car smelled like maple syrup as it was engine coolant burning. Took it to the dealership and they informed me of the cylinder failure. It is currently awaiting parts and its not under warranty.
Mazda Cx-5 2021
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-07
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-09
- VIN: JM3KFACM9M0
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: Just got a oil change. Told my battery is almost dead. Upon looking up information I found a letter for recall for 2021 Mazda Cx5 for Dealer Rework 41 telematics communication unit concern. I called the Dealership and they are refusing to fix the problem. Looks like its just a software update is needed. My car only has 24,666 miles and according to the letter should be fixed. [XXX] I bought the car used in April and did a search for recalls prior to buying the car. There is non on Mazda website or vin search. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Mazda Cx-5 2016
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-09
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-09
- VIN: JM3KE2CY3G0
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING,VISIBILITY/WIPER
- Summary: The controls on the Windshield Wiper/Headlight Control Stalk are not visible when driving at night. The setting markings on the Control Stalk are completely dark at night. This creates a safety hazard when driving at night in the rain and turning on your windshield wipers or changing your headlight settings is needed.
Mazda Cx-5 2019
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-04
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-07
- VIN: JM3KFABMXK1
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: Cracked cylinder head requiring replacement at 62,000 miles.
Latest 5 recalls Mazda Cx-5
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 20 recalls for different components of the Mazda Cx-5.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Mazda Cx-5 2018
- Report Received Date: 2021-11-12
- Manufacturer: Mazda North American Operations
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP
- Summary: Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain 2018 Mazda3, Mazda6, 2019 CX-3, 2018-2019 MX-5, CX-5, CX-9, and 2019-2020 Mazda2 vehicles. The impeller inside the low-pressure fuel pump may crack and deform, potentially causing the fuel pump to fail.
- Consequence: Fuel pump failure may cause an engine stall, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the fuel pumps, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 18, 2022. Owners may contact Mazda customer service at 1-800-222-5500 Option 4. Mazda's number for this recall is 5321K.
- Model: Mazda Cx-5 2019
- Report Received Date: 2021-11-12
- Manufacturer: Mazda North American Operations
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP
- Summary: Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain 2018 Mazda3, Mazda6, 2019 CX-3, 2018-2019 MX-5, CX-5, CX-9, and 2019-2020 Mazda2 vehicles. The impeller inside the low-pressure fuel pump may crack and deform, potentially causing the fuel pump to fail.
- Consequence: Fuel pump failure may cause an engine stall, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the fuel pumps, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 18, 2022. Owners may contact Mazda customer service at 1-800-222-5500 Option 4. Mazda's number for this recall is 5321K.
- Model: Mazda Cx-5 2016
- Report Received Date: 2020-02-06
- Manufacturer: Mazda North American Operations
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS
- Summary: Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain 2016 CX-5 vehicles. The LED Daytime Running Lights (DRL) may fail while driving.
- Consequence: If the DRL fails, the vehicle's visibility may be reduced to other drivers on the road, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Mazda will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the headlights, and replace the sealing gasket or headlight assemblies, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began March 20, 2020. Owners may contact Mazda customer service at 1-800-222-5500 Option 4. Mazda's number for this recall is 4320A.
- Model: Mazda Cx-5 2019
- Report Received Date: 2019-06-27
- Manufacturer: Mazda North American Operations
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain 2018-2019 CX-5, Mazda6, and 2019 Mazda3 vehicles. A software error in the powertrain control module (PCM) may cause the engine to stall.
- Consequence: An unexpected stall increases the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Mazda will notify owners, and dealers will reprogram the PCM software, free of charge. The recall began August 20, 2019. Owners may contact Mazda customer service at 1-800-222-5500, option 4. Mazda's number for this recall is 3719F.
- Model: Mazda Cx-5 2018
- Report Received Date: 2019-06-27
- Manufacturer: Mazda North American Operations
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain 2018-2019 CX-5, Mazda6, and 2019 Mazda3 vehicles. A software error in the powertrain control module (PCM) may cause the engine to stall.
- Consequence: An unexpected stall increases the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Mazda will notify owners, and dealers will reprogram the PCM software, free of charge. The recall began August 20, 2019. Owners may contact Mazda customer service at 1-800-222-5500, option 4. Mazda's number for this recall is 3719F.
Latest negative Mazda Cx-5 car reviews
Latest positive Mazda Cx-5 car reviews
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Vehicle year: 2020
Just reached the 10,000 mile plateau on my Mazda CX-5 and I still love it! The car has a nice and tight feel when driving it around turns, and the comfortable leather seats and quality trim inside make for a great driving experience. The ACC is fantastic and I'm happy to report that I get over 27 mpg, even when driving mostly in-town. While there are some areas that Mazda could improve upon, such as the BOSE needing more bass and the rear camera being weak, overall I'm very satisfied with this car. The variable rain adjusting wipers could be better, but this may be true on most cars. The infotainment screen could also be larger, but that's a minor issue. Mechanically, this car is top notch and the ACC makes it a true Highway Star!
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Vehicle year: 2015
I recently purchased a Mazda CX5 Sport with AWD and the 2.5L engine, and I must say, I absolutely love driving it! I have driven it for about 6000 miles now, through all kinds of conditions, both on long trips and daily commutes. I am constantly impressed by how great this vehicle is. The Sport model with AWD and the 2.5L engine provides all the power I need. Whether I'm on the freeway or at a stop light, it accelerates smoothly and quickly. The CX5 handles like a dream, looks fantastic, and rides comfortably. I've even loaded it up with stuff on several occasions by popping down the back seat, and I was amazed at how much I could fit in there. Overall, I highly recommend the Mazda CX5 to anyone looking for a reliable and enjoyable driving experience.
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Vehicle year: 2015
In December 2014, I traded in my 2015 Accord sedan, which had multiple problems, for the 2015 CX-5. I absolutely love the style and drive of Mazda models. The seats in the CX-5 are supportive and comfortable, although the head restraint could be more comfortable for short people. The Bose system sounds good to me, not great, but it's good enough. The interior noise level is equivalent to other SUVs in this price range, and the car is relatively smooth on bumpy roads. The CX-5 is known for being a pleasure to drive, sporty for an SUV with great handling. The electronic multifunction interface could be improved, as it is a bit slow and sometimes requires multiple entries. Unfortunately, I am not able to download my messages, and the screen should be bigger. The fuel economy was lower than advertised, only 28.5 on the highway at 70 mph. In 2017, I decided to trade in my CX-5 for the 2017 model, which has loads of improvements. I still love the CX-5 and have had no problems with it while I owned it. Living in Florida, I found that the car took a long time to cool off due to the lack of air conditioning vents in the back. Also, I just got tired of the road roar, especially on the highway.
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Vehicle year: 2017
We recently traded in our Honda 2016 CRV EXL and test drove the new 2017 CRV Touring. However, we found that it couldn't compare to the CX5 in terms of technology and we didn't like the cheap-looking interior of the CRV. The steering wheel controls looked particularly tinny. On the other hand, the CX5 handled much better on the road, was quieter, and handled bumpy roads with ease. The Bose Stereo is just awesome and the center knob for the entertainment screen is wonderful. Mazda's lane assist, headlights that move around corners, and cruise control with assist are all great features. The interior of the CX5 is pure luxury compared to the Honda. The Red Soul Color is also incomparable. If you haven't driven a new CX5, we highly recommend doing so before buying anything else in this class of vehicle. Additionally, Mazda's dealership is awesome and there is no pushing to purchase a vehicle, which is probably due to the fact that nothing compares to their new CX5. Update one year later - the car is still awesome, with only one flaw - the paint. Think twice about the Crystal Red Soul Color, as we have experienced way too many paint chips, especially on the hood. Also, be extremely careful when removing pine sap, road tar, squashed bugs, etc. If you rub too hard, you will remove the clear coat and be stuck with dull areas with fine line scratches. This is frustrating, as we are used to being able to scrub our car surfaces without causing any damage. This issue may lead us to trade this vehicle. When we asked the Mazda dealership about all the road chips, they acted like it was the first time they had ever heard about the Red Soul Color chipping. Mazda should have tested the paint process and durability before allowing their cars to be sold. Update 2019 - The CX5 is still a 5-star vehicle in every way, but we have found that the Red Soul Paint is not as durable as we had hoped. We used a special Harley polish to remove bugs on the hood and found about 6 or 7 swirl marks that will not remove, basically swirled through the clearcoat and into the paint. Now we apply the same polish on our Harley with an electric polisher.The paint chips easily upon inspection, which is disappointing and warrants a 1-star rating. It seems that all Red Soul colors of this year have this issue, but I am unsure about other colors.
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Vehicle year: 2018
The CX-5 is a stylish and performance-minded SUV that offers great support on longer rides and feels connected with the road. Purchasing this vehicle would be a great choice. However, there are some concerns that you should be aware of. Firstly, the key fob buttons are easily pressed, which can cause the rear liftgate to go up or the vehicle to unlock itself accidentally. Secondly, the built-in infotainment system feels outdated and can be difficult to use. Navigation does not take into account real-time traffic and it's hard to search for a place without entering all the details. Thirdly, the high-gloss plastic around the shifter, on the door armrests, and on the exterior of the vehicle is easily scratched. Fourthly, the center console armrest and the door armrests do not line up with each other, which can be awkward. Fifthly, the heater in my vehicle does not throw heat into the cabin until the engine is at standard temperature. Lastly, the adaptive cruise control is a little touchy and cannot predict when vehicles ahead are entering or leaving the lane. Therefore, it's not recommended to use it in dense traffic. #7 Hey there! Just wanted to let you know that depending on the combination of driver's seat height and steering wheel location, the frame of the steering wheel may partially block the speedometer, tachometer, and auxiliary readout screen. I've noticed that I can't read the tops of the readouts without adjusting my position. Hope this helps!
Are you having problems with your Mazda Cx-5?
Stephan Haley 2024-11-19
Vehicle year: 2023
Welcome back from your trip to New England! We flew into Logan Airport and had reserved a mid-sized SUV from Budget. Unfortunately, when we got to the counter, we were told that our car was not available. However, the staff was able to offer us a Mazda CX-5 instead. Although it was a compact SUV, we were able to make it work. The infotainment system was a bit tricky to figure out, but we eventually got the hang of it. The only downside was that the seats were a bit uncomfortable for longer drives. Overall, it was a good experience, but we may consider other options for our next trip. Thank you, Budget, for your help in making our trip possible!
Nasir Hermiston 2024-11-15
Vehicle year: 2020
After researching for a month, I narrowed down my search for a safe and reliable SUV for my new driver in a couple of years to the Mazda CX-5, Subaru Forrester, and Honda CR-V, all top safety picks on IIHS. I decided to purchase the 2020 CX-5 Grand Touring Reserve turbo AWD, which is a step below the signature trim. The exterior of the car is stunning, and I opted for the Gun Metal paint, which looks great. The interior is minimalistic on the dash, but the materials used are of high quality and well put together. The heated and cooled seats are amazing, and I love the Heads-up display, which is a great option for new drivers to maintain eye/road contact. The transmission is great, a true 6 spd automatic. However, I rated this vehicle 3 stars because it is a 4-cylinder turbo, and I expected it to have the Mazda zoom zoom quality, which it doesn't. The GTR was not impressive during the test drive, and the GT with premium pkg (non-turbo engine) had almost identical pick up and acceleration. The engine noise is loud, especially if you try to drive it to enjoy. The Bose radio system is inadequate for the price range, and the steering wheel is too thin. It needs to be thicker. Although the car has some downsides, I believe it is still a great choice for a new driver.This is the brand that promotes sportiness. Although some have said that the handling on this car is fun and lively, I respectfully disagree. While it may not be a 'sporty' sport utility, there are still plenty of great options out there, such as BMW, Porsche, or Audi. The interior of the driver's seat and passenger seats could benefit from better design for the middle console. It takes up leg room (width) that could be added back, and there is not enough storage for coins on the dash and elsewhere. Additionally, the center armrest is set too far back to rest your arm comfortably, and it would be great if it could move. The infotainment system is also quite outdated and takes longer to react than my other vehicles that are much older. The auto braking and other features don't seem to react quickly either. I have come to a complete stop and then the heads-up display will say 'Brake' in a quick braking situation. However, I have driven over 50 cars in the last 21 years of marriage, and I must say that I love cars. While I thought this car was the best of the best after all the video reviews, I will say that the Forrester was just as loud on the engine noise, and its transmission CVT wasn't good. However, I felt the extra room and look were nice. Had the Subaru dealer worked as hard on the deal, I would have bought the Touring Forrester after the two test drives, but they didn't work as hard on the numbers as Mazda. Mazda has the better reliability of the two vehicles as well. I think resale value on this car will be an issue if you want to get out of it sooner than later. Nevertheless, I got a great deal on the vehicle, and the 0% financing was a great addition that pushed me to make the decision a year earlier than I anticipated. I think this car will be reliable and enjoyed by my daughter in the future, as it is well made and safe.With all the great quality and items that I see in this car, I would rather spend 6-10k more and buy a Toyota Highlander. The Highlander is bigger, but the ride is so much better. The V6 is smooth and quiet, and overall, I think the Highlander is just as pretty as the CX-5 in the right color combination. One thing to note is that I have filled up the gas with Premium gas and didn't see too much difference in the acceleration. I did see a difference in getting to around 3500 RPM-5500 RPM. If I were buying again and could get the Subaru Forrester Touring at the same price, I would go for the Subaru. Yes, the transmission isn't as good, and they don't offer the heads-up display or turbo, but you don't feel the turbo in the Mazda. I think Subaru has better safety technology that reacts quicker. Overall, I would recommend this car over the CRV, RAV 4, Lexus NX, any GM, Ford, or Jeep that is comparable in size.
Finn Schroeder 2024-11-12
Vehicle year: 2013
Last year, I was searching for a car with more cargo capacity than my old rsx. During the test drive, I was really impressed by how well the cx-5 handled. Although I did not expect the low-powered engine to be an issue, it turned out to be a challenge when going up hills with a single passenger and two dogs in the back. Despite this, I still enjoy driving the car. After about a month of ownership, the driver's seat started to squeak, but it was an easy fix. The stock radio and speakers could be better, but that's a minor issue. Overall, I'm happy with my purchase and enjoy driving my cx-5.
Cornelius Marks 2024-11-08
Vehicle year: 2024
The soul red colour of this car is absolutely stunning, and the interior and exterior are both real eye-catchers. The engine is quite responsive and has a good amount of get-up-and-go. For the total price of 34k (preferred trim), the leather seats are awesome, and I'm thrilled that I managed to get the 16-inch wheels in a higher trim level because they come with thicker tires, which translates to better ride comfort. The independent suspension is sublime, although the brakes can be a bit mushy. I've been driving this car for 9 months now and I'm still getting used to them. There's also this weird jerk that happens when coming to a stop from 45mph, which can be a bit annoying. I've brought it to a Mazda dealership, but the engineers just put their arms up like they don't see it and later claimed it was normal. I've driven over 9 different cars, including manuals, CVTs, and traditional automatics, and none of them did that. Even the 2016 Scion iA (auto) with the supposed same 6-speed didn't do it either. The 2013 Mazda CX9 didn't either... in fact, none of the cars I've driven or ridden in did that. I'm totally baffled, and no one seems to have a fix. All the Mazda dealerships have cancerous locations that only have high traffic 50 mph roads or semi-busy 30 mph roads, making braking from 45 a total nightmare, which is mainly when the problem happens. I hope Mazda can find a solution to this issue soon. Thank you for considering my feedback.
Jessy Lubowitz 2024-11-05
Vehicle year: 2015
I purchased my Mazda CX-5 on December of 2014. I was very excited due to all of the positive reviews that I read. However, I was disappointed when the transmission went out at 25,000 MILES. The dealer didn't have a loaner and it took them nearly a week to get my car fixed. I wish I had considered other options like Toyota or Subaru.