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: 2021
Hello! I'm glad to hear that you're enjoying your CX-5 Grand Touring, which is your second Mazda to lease. It's great that you found a CUV that fits within your budget. While the ride may be a bit firm, I'm sure you'll get used to it over time. The non-turbo engine is peppy and punchy, especially when used with the manual / paddle shifters in Sport mode. Additionally, the larger 10.25
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Vehicle year: 2013
I spent about a year searching for the perfect car, considering various makes and models. Just as I was about to settle on a sporty sedan to replace my 3S, I stumbled upon the new CX-5. I had heard about the new drive train and was initially concerned about the small 2.0L, high compression engine. However, after contacting my dealer and taking it for a test drive, I was pleasantly surprised. The Skyactive G engine loves to rev and has great pick-up when driving in manual mode, where I have control of the shift points. In automatic mode, the transmission logic is designed for fuel economy and requires some coaching of the fuel pedal to accelerate. I ended up purchasing a Mica Red GT with Tech, and I couldn't be happier!
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Vehicle year: 2023
When you realize a sedan is not an option anymore, an SUV can be a great alternative! This CX-5 is performing admirably. And for the price, you'll feel like you got away with a steal!
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Vehicle year: 2023
I'm so glad to hear that you're enjoying your 2023 Mazda CX-5! Even at the base sport level, the interior is of exemplary quality and refinement. The seats are designed with high-quality fabrics and are very comfortable. The cabin ergonomics are well thought out and the ride and handling manners are excellent. The engine is spirited and eager to please, and the finely synchronized shifting of the 6-speed transmission is impressive. I completely agree that the high-quality fit and finish from the exterior paint through the interior cabin components is impressive. Even the control knobs have a very high quality and a precision tactile feel and operation. Having owned two other SUV brands over more than a decade, I have to say the CX-5 is a superior option.
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Vehicle year: 2013
Hello! I hope you're doing well. I just wanted to share my experience with my CX-5 4-Cylinder Base model that I purchased on Jan 18, 2013. It has been a year since I bought it and I am still very happy with my purchase. I have not encountered any major issues and everything seems to be working perfectly. I decided to buy this car to replace my 1999 Chevy Venture that we had outgrown. I have read some reviews that complain about poor fuel economy and lack of engine performance, but I think it's important to keep in mind that this is a small SUV with a small engine. Most of our driving is done in town under 40 MPH on flat Kansas roads, and after one year, I only have 9,000 miles on the car. Thank you for taking the time to read about my experience!
Are you having problems with your Mazda Cx-5?
Norbert Purdy 2025-03-22
Vehicle year: 2013
I towed a Waverunner (weighing 1500lbs) with my CX5 and it did just fine. During a round trip from TN to WI, I got 24 miles per gallon while pulling the Waverunner. The SUV also did well pulling the Waverunner in and out of the water. Unfortunately, the BSM does not work with the tow wiring installed, which is a shame. However, the tow wiring kit has been installed correctly. The Reese type 3 trailer hitch does not rattle while driving, unlike the first hitch that rattled terribly at 2300 RPMs. Initially, my highway gas mileage was lower than expected when not towing (was around 30 mpg), but that is improving as I add mileage; currently getting 33 mpg. The CX5 has plenty of power, you just have to put your foot into it, especially when towing.
Jamey Beatty 2025-03-06
Vehicle year: 2016
In September 2015, I purchased a 2016 MAZDA CX-5. Unfortunately, by the first week of December, with only about 1,300 miles, the engine light came on and the car became sluggish, struggling to pick up speed. I took the car to the nearest Mazda dealership, but it took a few days for them to figure out what was wrong. Even after I picked up the car, the engine light came back on before I even left the dealership lot. The service advisor asked me to leave the car, and it turned out that they still didn't know what caused the engine failure and had to confer with Mazda again. Unfortunately, it took a week for them to get back to me, and they still had no idea what was wrong with the car. They did tell me that the problem stemmed from an error during the actual assembly/manufacturing of the car. To make matters worse, an employee at the dealership crashed into my car with another vehicle. When I went to the dealership to get more information, an employee told me that sometimes these things happen. I asked for the police report of how the accident happened, but they said as the accident was on their premises, they were not required to have a police report. I then asked for the dealership's written report along with photos of the accident, which they refused to provide. Throughout this ordeal, I have been in touch with Mazda Customer Service, who have been understanding and looking into the matter. They are considering either replacing the car or giving me a full refund. However, when I asked for a firm written commitment from MAZDA, they were not able to provide one. I am disappointed that not only did a brand new car have a serious defect, but also that the MAZDA dealership crashed my car and caused significant depreciation.At this point, Mazda has informed us that the dealership is not cooperating with them and they have no control over the dealership. We have requested to escalate this to Mazda corporate, but unfortunately, we were not able to speak to anyone senior at the company above the Customer Service Rep. It has now been almost 5 weeks, and my car is still in the shop. We understand that this can be frustrating, and we want to assure you that we are doing everything we can to resolve this issue as quickly as possible. Thank you for your patience and understanding.
Kaleb Langworth 2025-03-03
Vehicle year: 2022
The product has some really cool new features, but unfortunately, there are some disappointing aspects such as the seat comfort and cramped leg room. Additionally, the arm rests are poor and the electric parking brake can be quite annoying.
Carmel Schamberger 2025-02-09
Vehicle year: 2024
I love everything about this vehicle, but I have to say that the seats are a bit uncomfortable. I have driven many rentals, owned, borrowed, and taxi vehicles, and I have to say that the Mazda CX-5 has the worst car seat design. It's a shame because the vehicle is great! Everything is well-made and practical, but after driving for more than 30 minutes, the seats become quite uncomfortable. I hope Mazda designers can come up with a better solution soon.
Marcelino Zieme 2025-01-21
Vehicle year: 2023
The oil level sensor is malfunctioning. Despite the dealership's inability to identify the issue, we have provided photographic evidence of the warning system. Additionally, the view screen went black and the radio ceased functioning, while the transmission failed to upshift. Rest assured, we will continue to investigate and resolve the problem with confidence.