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The 2021 Mazda CX-5 gives off the appearance of being a sleek, well-built model, with the automaker claiming it provides “a difference you can feel.” However, customers have come to find something completely different. The faulty electrical system, malfunctioning service brakes and shoddy structure are causing some major headaches.
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Contents
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NHTSA Complaints for the 2021 Mazda CX-5
| Complaint Category | Number of Complaints |
|---|---|
| Engine | |
| Power Train | |
| Unknown Or Other | |
| Service Brakes | |
| Electrical System | |
| Vehicle Speed Control | |
| Fuel/propulsion System | |
| Lane Departure: Blind Spot Detection | |
| Visibility/wiper | |
| Forward Collision Avoidance: Automatic Emergency Braking |
Most Common Problems with the 2021 Mazda CX-5
There are numerous complaints about 20221 Mazda CX-5. These range from engine and powertrain issues to problems with exterior lighting and windscreen wipers.
Let’s have a look at the broader range of complaints made to the United States Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
At least nine components, systems, and/or faults were named in complaints to NHTSA about the 2021 Mazda CX-5:
- Engine
- Powertrain
- Electrical system
- Fuel system
- Service brakes
- Structure
- Lane departure
- Visibility and wipers
- Structure
Complaints About the 2021 CX-5:
Paint Finish
The first complaint was in January 2021 and referred to the Soul Red Crystal finish on their vehicle chipping badly after only 3 months. This was already known to be a problem with previous models. Reports state that this red finish, introduced in 2017, is so soft and thin it cannot absorb the harsh rays of the sun.
Another owner, with only 12 miles on the clock, reports a similar paint-chipping issue with Soul Red Crystal Metallic, a premium color that cost an extra $595.
Fuel System
A complaint lodged in November 2021 describes an incident that followed a dealer reprogramming the transmission control unit after the fuel gauge malfunctioned. The problem recurred, with additional malfunctions of warning lights, windshield wipers, and the cruise control that wouldn’t deactivate.
Because the cruise control didn’t deactivate and the brakes didn’t engage immediately the car ran over a metal pole. A police report was filed but the report states the manufacturer wasn’t notified of the failure. A second dealer said the fuel level-sending unit must be replaced.
Windshield & Visibility
The most recent complaint was in late January 2022. This states that the windshield defrost only works for the middle part of the windshield, which severely impairs visibility when it rains or snows, making driving dangerous. A similar complaint maintains that visibility is degraded by 80% because of this poor design.
Another visibility problem reported relates to the glass of a sunroof exploding outward for no apparent reason.
Engine & Powertrain
Issues in complaints vary quite widely, including those that relate to battery voltage, oil levels, and failure to accelerate.
Reported reactions from dealers to these problems show why anyone who buys a lemon needs to consult with a consumer law firm that will take up your case.
For example, one complainant states that Mazda and the selling/servicing dealer refused to acknowledge an issue relating to low engine oil level problems thought to be caused by “oil burning.” Another complainant with low oil problems was told nothing could be done until Mazda came up with a solution.
Another complaint involving lane departure, and safety issues, had a similar lack of result. Although the complainant had video evidence of the lane departure fault, the dealer said there was no problem.
Problems with the Electrical System
Everyone wants to remain connected and entertained while driving, but the Mazda CX-5 electrical systems make that difficult.
Read this Edmunds review. “There is no way to easily switch through my favorited XM stations without taking my eyes off the road and going through multiple actions on the console control system. Oddly enough, there is a way to semi-easily flip through the 100+ other stations that I don’t listen to. Both the Mazda3 and the CX-30 have functionality on the volume knob that allows for switching through your favorites by pressing left or right, but when you pay more money for the CX-5, this isn’t included.”
This isn’t the only electrical system issue occurring with the Mazda vehicle. Service Bulletin #MT-003-20 also talks about an inoperative power liftgate, caused by the wrong amount of battery voltage. On the bright side, the company didn’t lie about the tagline. There is a difference that can be felt – coming from attempting to open the defective tailgate.
Problems with the Service Brakes
With how long brakes have been installed in vehicles, there’s no reason that this system should be defective. Yet, that’s what we see with this Mazda.
Read this NHTSA complaint. “We bought the car new off the Mazda dealership lot yesterday with 5 miles on the ODO. As my husband pulled off the lot, he smelled a burning small and the brakes felt like they’d seized up a bit. He pulled over and thought about turning back onto the lot, but then thought it may be just because they’re new brakes and continued on and drove home. This morning we remotely started the vehicle and the Mazda App sent us an alert that there is a critical vehicle malfunction having to do with the antilock brake system. The dealers are closed, so I don’t have any more info yet. I just signed back on to the app and there’s a second malfunction alert now with the emergency lane keeping. There are now currently 65 miles on the ODO. We have only driven the vehicle from the dealership home and parked it outside overnight.”
While the manufacturer hasn’t issued any statement about these types of problems, there are other bulletins about the brakes. Service Bulletin #04-005-20-3687a talks about a squeaking noise when the rear brakes are applied. It may even get louder when driving at slower speeds. The noise comes from poor contact made between the mounting support and guide plate. Again, it doesn’t take a rocket scientist to build an effective and reliable braking system. It’s not as if brakes are a new concept. Mazda needs to hire some engineers that understand the basics.
Problems with the Structure
Despite exceptional customer reviews back in the day, Mazda quality seems to have gone downhill recently. This is clearly seen when examining the defects in the structure.
Here’s another NHTSA complaint worth reading. “Red Soul on the CX5 having excessive paint chipping. Less than 5k miles on the car and have only had for 3 months and there’s already 9 to 10 chips on the hood and driver door.”
Another complaint states, “The paint on this car is notoriously poor and Mazda is aware. We purchased this vehicle on 16 February 2021, drove it home and left it in the driveway due to snow/ice. On Thursday, 18 February instead of brushing or scraping off the ice we left it to melt. Unfortunately, the ice melt left huge scratches on the hood. There is no reason for ice/snow to cause this much damage. We reviewed a number of websites and it appears that Mazda is aware of this inferior paint and has done nothing to rectify the problem. But they do charge $595 more for it. I have not received any call backs from Mazda corporation. Brown’s Chantilly did attempt to repair the damage but all that did was mask it slightly. The damage is still very visible. This car has 12 miles on it and most of those are from the dealer. I am unable to upload more than one photo. The photo shows the largest scratch but there are many more on the car.”
The paint issues go even deeper. Service Bulletin #09-004-21-3772 discusses how stains can appear on the vehicle, especially the trunk, roof and hood, after cold weather. This is caused by moisture that gets trapped between the RAPGARD and paint. The advanced fix is to heat it up with a heat gun or infrared drier. This communication is very clearly showing the level of quality that Mazda offers these days. However, it seems to have been going on for longer than people realize. Just recently, there was a class action lawsuit about some CX-5 models because the daytime running lights were defective and burning out prematurely. It looks like the newer models are going to have some issues worthy of lawsuits as well. In this regard, there’s no difference, as promised by the automaker. Nothing changes if nothing changes.
Your Lemon Law Legal Rights
Think you have a lemon? Sit back and let the experts work out your lemon case at no cost to you. The law makes Mazda pay legal fees. You may be able to get your lemon out of your life. Every year, auto manufacturers buy back, replace or pay cash settlements to thousands of ‘lemon’ owners like you.
Complaint Data
| Category | Engine |
| Date | Mar 08, 2023 |
| State | CO |
| Description | The engine low oil light comes on every ~3000 miles when mazda recommends an oil change at every 7,500 miles. For some reason this engine eats oil and has consistently reproduced the check engine light every 3k miles. Mazda hasn't issued an official recall but has published a technical service bulletin. |
| Category | Engine |
| Date | Mar 03, 2023 |
| State | AL |
| Description | Engine burns excess oil and must be topped off before service is due. The dealership acknowledges this is a problem on all 2021 mazda turbo engines. Mazda has no fix. The first time occurred when I was driving in the country in july 2022 and the check oil light came on. Today, march 3, my check oil light lit up. I am not due for service for another 1800 miles. I have read it is a valve stem problem which causes oil to leak into the engine which can cause the car to stall among other issues such as unnecessary wear and tear. A class action suit has been filed in california (heinz vs mazda) november 15, 2022. |
| Category | Engine, Service Brakes |
| Date | Feb 25, 2023 |
| State | NY |
| Description | The car is consuming excessive engine oil. Between 3000-4000 miles the low engine oil light comes on. I was on the highway and had to pull over. I was told we don't need oil change until 5000 miles. Not feeling safe to drive long distance. Dealership acknowledged seal is causing the leaks, but said mazda won't cover the cost unless check engine light is on. Also the break pads are moving slightly when breaking, dealership said it's normal due to break pads are moving back and forth when breaking. However, I can hear the breaks clicking. |
| Category | Engine, Power Train |
| Date | Feb 08, 2023 |
| State | NC |
| Description | My car is a 2021 cx-5, turboed awd vehicle. It keeps consuming oil. I took it to the dealership, sandy sansing mazda in pensacola, where I purchased the car. The technicians informed me that these models are known to consume oil. They did not tell me that when I bought it in september of 2022! They had a technical service bulletin, which works as a policy for the company, with a range of vin numbers that indicated the vehicles with those vin numbers are likely to have a manufacturing defect that allows oil to leak into the combustion chamber. My car's vin number falls within that range. While I purchased this vehicle to drive long distances, including to see and care for my mother in nc, who was recently diagnosed with terminal brain cancer, and to alaska from fl, my newish (pre-certified) car runs out of oil quickly. It must be causing internal damage (plugs, wires, exhaust, and the cylinders). When I asked the mazda techs to fix the issue, they informed me they would not uphold the warranty, because I put oil in the vehicle. I was 400 miles away from home on a trip, on a sunday, when a light in my car came on that indicated the car was low on oil. Why wouldn't I put oil in it? It is not safe to drive a vehicle with no oil, as it could cause the engine to stop working. One time, my oil pump went out in a 2002 tacoma, and my camshaft welded itself together, or to other parts of the engine, at 70 mph down a highway. I lost power steering, power brakes, power in general. The timing belt was instantly shredded. It's not safe to drive cars that consume oil so rapidly between recommended changes. Mazda would not uphold their warranty responsibly, and they have known about the defect for some time, yet they are still selling cars that are unsafe to drive. |
| Category | Forward Collision Avoidance: Automatic Emergency Braking, Service Brakes, Vehicle Speed Control |
| Date | Jan 21, 2023 |
| State | UT |
| Description | I experienced a sudden unintended acceleration incident. I pulled into my driveway and stopped the vehicle with my foot firmly on the brake since my driveway is sloped. I pushed the garage door opener remote when suddenly the vehicle accelerated and shot forward hitting the garage door. There was no brake action and all backup systems failed. There was no automatic emergency braking or forward collision warning. There were no warning lights displayed. No airbags were deployed. If the garage door had been open, the vehicle would have hit a concrete wall in the garage. The vehicle was taken to the mazda dealership and a full circle inspection and diagnostic check. Mazda found no codes and everything was working as designed in vehicle. |
| Category | Engine |
| Date | Jan 14, 2023 |
| State | MO |
| Description | Low engine oil light appeared despite standard maintenance service and oil change at mazda dealer the prior month. Service technician confirmed oil was low by 1 and 3/4 quarts and added oil. Mazda dealership advised there is a service bulletin for my vehicle with this problem dating back to 2021, and that the problem is likely due to a faulty valve, but that they have no planned fix available. I am concerned about the long-term damage of engine oil continually leaking into the combustion chamber. Mazda should be asked to fix this for car owners, not simply top off our oil each time that it leaks. |
| Category | Power Train |
| Date | Jan 14, 2023 |
| State | GA |
| Description | It appears that my car has the check oil level light coming on at approximately 3000 to 4000 miles after an oil change. This seems like a safety issue to me because a brand new car should not be burning a quart of oil at this interval. |
| Category | Engine |
| Date | Jan 03, 2023 |
| State | WA |
| Description | Oil consumption on a 2021 turbo cx-5. Problem has been reproduced and confirmed by dealer. Warning lights twice. First time told it was normal. Happened twice. Only on my third maintenance oil change was it acknowledged. Had to do a lot of research on my own. Caused enormous stress to existing mental health issues. Would not have even been addressed had I not stated the issue. |
| Category | Engine |
| Date | Dec 26, 2022 |
| State | CA |
| Description | Engine is either burning or leaking oil. The low oil light flashed after a 2hr highway trip (traveling to my parent's house for christmas with my wife), low oil was confirmed the following day via dipstick. Oil was changed at the dealership about 4 months ago, mileage is under 24k miles. Looks to be related to this service bulletin, which still does not appear to have a fix or recall associated with it. Mazda oil consumption tsb turbo engines components: engine and engine cooling, tires, electrical system nhtsa id number: 10202685 manufacturer communication number: 01-012-21-3832 5 affected products vehicles make model year mazda cx-30 2021 mazda cx-5 2021 mazda cx-9 2021 mazda mazda3 2021 mazda mazda6 2021 summary some vehicles may have a low engine oil level warning message and a check engine light illuminated in the instrument cluster, along with dtc p250f:00 stored in memory. Dtc p250f:00 - engine oil level signal: engine oil level low. Upon inspecting the engine oil level, the level is found to be low and there doesn't appear to be any trace of oil leakage in the engine compartment. This concern usually occurs when the mileage reaches approximately 3,100 - 4,700 miles (5,000 - 7,500km) and may also occur again after replacing or topping off the engine oil. The root cause of this concern has not been identified yet, therefore a repair procedure will be announced at a later date. Since this issue has been reported after a valve stem seal modification, it is very likely that valve stem seal damage is causing oil to leak into the combustion chamber. |
| Category | Unknown Or Other |
| Date | Dec 18, 2022 |
| State | CO |
| Description | The car has a key fob which is supposed to automatically lock the car when you walk away (and unlock when you press a button on the door handle when the fob is in close proximity). My car sometimes does not lock when I walk away. They encourage relying on this method, and so sometimes I return to my car, and it is unlocked. I consider this a safety issue both from a personal safety standpoint and from a car theft/ interior item theft standpoint. I have tried discussing this with the dealership repair department, but they mansplain to me that you have to walk far away for the lock to activate (which is actually directly contrary to the owner's manual for this model, as well as my personal experience). |
| Category | Engine, Power Train |
| Date | Dec 12, 2022 |
| State | MI |
| Description | When I reached 7000 miles on my car the low oil light came one. I immediately drove it to the dealership - ending a vacation early as I thought something was seriously wrong with the car. I got to dealership and they blamed me for getting an oil change at a competitor and not putting in enough oil. They then changed the oil and again at 12000 the low oil light came on. There seems to be an oil consumption issue that mazda is not admitting to or fixing. Every time I drive more than 4500 miles the car is 1/2 a quart low and it warns me. Now the dealership wants me to spend hundreds of dollars on a vehicle in warranty for oil consumption testing.... Though there is no leak and no soot in the tail pipe. |
| Category | Power Train |
| Date | Dec 01, 2022 |
| State | TX |
| Description | Low oil level between oil change cycles with over 1,000 miles remaining before oil change is required. This has happened between both oil changes so far and I have to add oil myself to ensure oil level isn't low. The oil consumption seems extremely high and is concerning that at only 12,000 miles I've had this problem happen twice. |
| Category | Engine |
| Date | Nov 18, 2022 |
| State | CO |
| Description | New vehicle at approximately 6,000 miles and again at 9,500 turned on low oil light dashboard. Added one quart oil each time (twice) to restore oil level. Vehicle currently has approximately 10,500 miles. Mcdonald mazda west slow to respond to performing warranty service related to tsb 01-012/21. Thank you. |
| Category | Engine |
| Date | Nov 18, 2022 |
| State | CO |
| Description | New vehicle at approximately 5,500 miles turned on low oil light dashboard. Added one quart oil each time to restore oil level. Vehicle currently has approximately 7,000 miles. Mcdonald mazda west slow to respond to performing warranty service related to tsb 01-012/21. Thank you. |
| Category | Forward Collision Avoidance: Adaptive Cruise Control, Forward Collision Avoidance: Warnings, Unknown Or Other |
| Date | Nov 01, 2022 |
| State | NJ |
| Description | Feb 2,2022 received critical vehicle malfunction warning, all vehicle systems affected told to call roadside assistance and not to drive vehicle. Received same warning again february 11,2022 after vehicle had been inspected by dealer service again had vehicle towed to dealer. April 14, 2022 critical vehicle malfunction again. October 30, 2022, again critical vehicle malfunction warning. All vehicle systems affected. |
| Category | Forward Collision Avoidance: Automatic Emergency Braking |
| Date | Oct 30, 2022 |
| State | NY |
| Description | While driving the car in highway and you turn signals to change lanes and that moment you start changing the automatic brake system activated and car suddenly brake almost making me get in to a rear collision this happens twice in highway, it also happens twice in city driving while cruising street and theres is nothing in front of you the emergency brake light shows brake as emergency and car suddenly brake without having anything on front |
| Category | Engine |
| Date | Oct 26, 2022 |
| State | KS |
| Description | At 16,550 miles (5675 miles since the last oil change), my oil pressure light came on. Per owner's manual, I turned the car off & let the oil drain into the pan for 5 minutes. I checked the oil but due to it being so hot it was hard to get an accurate reading. I turned the car back on & the oil light was off. I proceeded to drive into town and 25 miles later the light came on again. I checked the oil & it appeared to be very low. I added a quart of oil and the light went off. I checked the oil level later when the car was cool & the oil level on the dipstick was now halfway between the 2 dots on the dipstick. I drove about 300 miles home from our trip and the light never came back on. I took it to the dealership the next day & the technician said no codes showed that my oil level was low and they said my oil level was now 2 qts too high. I only added 1 and they changed it last. Even though I was told there was a known issue involving a valve stem seal, they told me mazda will not authorize the repair unless the engine code error is present (p205f?) & the low oil light is on. They were unable to explain why my low oil light came on. I was told that I need to change my oil every 5k miles even though the owner's manual says I can go up 7500 miles. They also told me that I should wait 10-15 minutes to let the oil drain after shutting the car off and not the 5 minutes that it states in my owner's manual. They told me if this issue happens again, to have my car towed to the nearest mazda dealership. However, again the repair would only be done if both conditions were present. A bulletin had been produced on this issue but not provided to the owners of the vehicles. This is a safety risk since I was on a trip and would never imagine having this issue with a new car 1year old. Had I known this was an issue, I could have been more prepared. Potentially letting oil continue to seep into the combustion chamber of my engine is not ok. |
| Category | Engine |
| Date | Oct 21, 2022 |
| State | NC |
| Description | Car is consuming oil since new and requiring additional oil to be added before oil changes. There was a tsb created by mazda a year ago (tsb #Â 01-012/21) however there is no fix. I am concerned with the potential for damage to other engine systems aside from the reported issue with the valve stem seals resulting in undrivability and premature engine problems due to oil leaking past the valve stem seals. |
| Category | Engine |
| Date | Oct 19, 2022 |
| State | PA |
| Description | Excessive oil consumption. Confirmed by the dealer. |
| Category | Engine |
| Date | Oct 13, 2022 |
| State | CT |
| Description | My car appears to consuming oil excessively. I bought this car new in march of 2021 at I have had to top off my oil between oil changes at almost every single oil change since I have owned it. The car only has 33900 miles on it and usually about two months in from my oil change the check oil light comes on and the dipstick shows the oil at the lower end of the dipstick. I have purchased oil on my own and have had to have the dealer top it off. After topped off it will usually make it fine until my next oil change but a brand new car should not be burning oil like this and I was told they have known about a valve stem defect since september of 2021 but still have not done a recall or have a fix for it. |
| Category | Engine, Fuel/propulsion System |
| Date | Oct 11, 2022 |
| State | NY |
| Description | I am having 2021 cx5 signature turbo 3400 mile and the engine light can me on upon checking the oil level was to low mark burnt out . I am concern that mazda have not came up. With a recall yet. |
| Category | Engine |
| Date | Oct 07, 2022 |
| State | NJ |
| Description | At approximately 5,612 miles, the low oil pressure light came on. After changing the oil, it happened again at 7,760 miles. Both times the light came on, the oil level was low. |
| Category | Engine |
| Date | Oct 05, 2022 |
| State | CT |
| Description | Car has 13000 miles and is consuming oil |
| Category | Service Brakes, Unknown Or Other, Vehicle Speed Control |
| Date | Oct 03, 2022 |
| State | TN |
| Description | Upon exiting my local car wash, I drove my car around to the area used for vacuuming. I pulled into the parking space and when I applied the brake pedal to stop, the car suddenly accelerated and crashed into the wall of the building. I have the car wash security camera footage of this incident. It shows my brake light is on at the car's point of acceleration and my brake light is on at point of impact with the wall. If you need to review it, I can email it to you. |
| Category | Engine, Power Train |
| Date | Sep 18, 2022 |
| State | GA |
| Description | Detected slight odor of burning oil while highway driving, mileage approximately 8,650. Three days later “low oil level†warning light lit up, mileage 8928. Allowed car to rest and checked oil level manually. Oil level was slightly above the minimum required. No signs of oil on garage floor. |
| Category | Engine |
| Date | Sep 11, 2022 |
| State | PA |
| Description | Low oil light came on 4500 miles after oil change. Engine used nearly 2 quarts of oil quarl in that distance. Engine burning excessive amount of oil. No oil leaks. Burning oil internally. Reported to dealer. |
| Category | Power Train |
| Date | Sep 06, 2022 |
| State | AL |
| Description | Vehicle has had excessive oil consumption. Engine consumes approximately one quart of oil every 4k miles or so with normal driving not spirited. Vehicle has no visible signs of outward leaks. First oil change was at 5030 miles with approximately 5. 2 quarts of castrol edge full synthetic oil and a purolator boss oil filter plb14612. Vehicle currently has 9352 miles. I have not let it get to a point where oil light comes on, but it has been to the quart low dot on the stick twice so far. This should not be normal. This has not been confirmed by a dealer or independent service center as I maintain the oil checks and oil changes myself. Tailpipes do have black soot inside but is not greasy or oily. I haven't noticed a lot of smoke from tailpipes just a small bit of whitish vapor that quickly dissipates when my wife pulls it out of the driveway and starts off down the road that I contribute to normal condensation, but I nor she can see tailpipes when we are driving a longer distance of course. I haven't smelled oil burn or seen any leaks on driveway, but the oil is going somewhere. I have seen a tsb from mazda about possible valve stem seal problems with my vin number. I hope mazda will resolve this within my warranty as oil consumption can cause other major engine component damage down the road I. E., catalytic convertor, oxygen sensors, carbon deposits, etc. |
| Category | Engine |
| Date | Aug 31, 2022 |
| State | KY |
| Description | Engine oil light indicated low oil level at 6000 miles. Dealer states there is a tsb on this issue but no repair process is available. |
| Category | Engine |
| Date | Aug 29, 2022 |
| State | GA |
| Description | Engine oil consumption - around 2000 miles after oil change. |
| Category | Engine |
| Date | Aug 29, 2022 |
| State | OH |
| Description | Car purchased new in 2021. Uses 1quart oil every 3,000 miles. Checked at dealer and assured of no leaks. Service bulletin issued by mazda acknowledges problem probably due to faulty valve stem seals, but no resolution offerree for clients except “stop by for a quart of oil whenever light comes on!†|
| Category | Engine |
| Date | Aug 28, 2022 |
| State | NC |
| Description | Motor using excessive amount of oil. Vehicle has just turned 20,000 miles. Uses a quart of oil ever 1500 miles or so. |
| Category | Electrical System, Lane Departure: Blind Spot Detection, Vehicle Speed Control |
| Date | Aug 27, 2022 |
| State | IA |
| Description | I bought a 2021 mazda cx-5 from ramsey mazda of des moines, ia. It offered comparable comfort & features. A selling point was the safety features touted by the salesman. Odd things occurred during the first few months but I attributed it to a learning curve. I saw some odd messages but I really did not think it was relevant until june 28, 2022. I was backing out from a parking space. The blind spot monitoring failed to indicate a car approaching from the right that then stopped in my blind spot. I hit the car behind me. Despite the fact, I understand personal responsibility, I never would have had the bsm worked correctly. I dropped the car off on july 15, 2022 to the ramsey mazda service center after the bsm failure and a check engine light appeared. I already had the ramsey mazda collision center look at the car and told them of the of the bsm failure. That man doing the estimate said he had heard of those failures before. On july 15, I dropped the car off at the ramsey mazda service center to look at the bsm, a check engine light, the door locks and the hatch opening on its own. I tried to tell the service center that there was something severely wrong with the electrical system in this vehicle. I have a witness to its erratic behavior, but I was continually dismissed. There is more wrong now with my car than when I left it with the dealership. They kept my car for 19 days. During the 19 days, I continually had to call and check on the status of my vehicle. Ramsey mazda was not and is still not initiating conversation with me or responding to voicemails. The manager of the ramsey mazda dealership on hickman in des moines, ia (jd) is supposed to be handling this issue personally with mazda corporate because it now “appears†to be affecting multiple systems in his words. Multiple issues include but are not limited to the bsm, seat belt notifications, power driver's seat, camera system, cruise control system, entertainment system, & hands free communications. |
| Category | Engine |
| Date | Aug 26, 2022 |
| State | NJ |
| Description | Low oil light keeps coming on before it's due. Went to dealer and they gave me a notice of a bulletin. 01-012/21. It states there is an issue where the engine leaks oil faster and could eventually cause engineer damage. They are asking us to come in more frequently for oil changes or to top off. Unknown what the fix is and it's been on multiple new mazda vehicle types. |
| Category | Engine |
| Date | Aug 21, 2022 |
| State | IL |
| Description | Engine burns about 1 quart of oil ever 5000 miles since new. |
| Category | Engine |
| Date | Aug 18, 2022 |
| State | SC |
| Description | Excessive oil consumption on brand new vehicle 1qt after 3800 miles |
| Category | Engine |
| Date | Aug 11, 2022 |
| State | MA |
| Description | Excess oil consumption. Manufacturer recommended oil change interval is 7,500 miles. At 3500 miles a low oil warning light came on and I had to add oil. I changed my oil as recommended at 7500 miles. At 11,000 miles the warning light came on and I had to add oil once again. I am currently just shy of 15,000 miles and I'm getting my oil changed tomorrow. I've read that there is a known valve stem seal issue with these 2021 turbo engines that is causing this. I'm worried that there may be a catastrophic engine failure that could cause me to crash. |
| Category | Engine |
| Date | Aug 06, 2022 |
| State | UT |
| Description | My check oil light has come on 3 times in between my first and 2nd oil changes. Added a total of 1 1/2 quarts between the 3 oil changes. Made the dealership aware of this last week at 2nd oil change. They've begun to monitor my mileage with my oil consumption and I'll go in every 500 miles so they can document. |
| Category | Power Train |
| Date | Aug 06, 2022 |
| State | GA |
| Description | Oil consumption issue with the 2. 5t motor. Engine is burning oil at an accelerated rate. |
| Category | Engine |
| Date | Aug 04, 2022 |
| State | NC |
| Description | Oil burning and leaking as well after only 14,500 miles. I see there is a class action lawsuit filed against mazda in late may of 2022 regarding faulty oil stem seals that cause oil to leak into the combustion chamber which will eventually cause o2 sensors to fail, catalytic convertors and engine valve failure. Dealer acted like they never knew about this issue and initially told me it was "normal" while the engine breaks in to burn oil. They attributed the "leak" to a faulty oil filter they put on during my recent oil change on july 8. Ridiculous that a brand-new car burns and leaks oil. Massive cover up by mazda and a recall should be demanded. Apparently, they either do not want to spend 1000's of dollars in recalls or they do not have a fix. Either way, not owning up to this is a travesty and injustice! |
| Category | Engine And Engine Cooling:engine:oil/lubrication |
| Date | Aug 04, 2022 |
| State | NC |
| Description | The contact owns a 2021 mazda cx-5. The contact stated that the vehicle was consuming an excessive amount of engine oil. The contact stated that after driving for 1,000 miles the vehicle needed an oil change. The oil level warning light would be illuminated. The contact stated that after the vehicle was taken to the dealer the contact was informed that the engine was a quart low on engine oil. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 4,000. |
| Category | Engine |
| Date | Aug 01, 2022 |
| State | VA |
| Description | Excessive oil consumption. After 3,000 miles driving, need to add a quart of oil as ‘oil low' light comes on. Vehicle is 1 year old, and this happened at 3,700 miles on the odometer. Has happened after every oil change at around 3,700-4,200 miles driven. |
| Category | Engine |
| Date | Jul 25, 2022 |
| State | CT |
| Description | Excessive oil consumption new 2021 mazda cx-5 carbon addition turbo - at approximately 7000 miles the low oil light came on, I added oil and got an oil change 2/11/22. At 11000 miles got low engine oil light had to add a full quart on 7/20/22. There are no oil leaks or obvious damage anywhere. I contacted the dealer who stated that they recommend oil changes at 5000 miles though the manual states 7500. If oil is being blown through a gasket or seal it will potentially foul the o2 and emissions sensor, the cylinders, etc. And ruin the engine or cause catastrophic failure. |
| Category | Electrical System, Engine, Fuel/propulsion System |
| Date | Jul 24, 2022 |
| State | KS |
| Description | While beginning to turn into an interstate exit lane, all dashboard lights lit up, the engine died, and the car stopped. Power brakes & steering were inactivated. My husband was able to coast the car to the shoulder. My mazda app said nothing wrong with car. Waited 3 hours for tow as we were out of state. The mazda dealership found the high pressure fuel pump to have a malfunction. Two different technicians at the dealership related that mazda was aware of the issue & had not yet issued a recalled. |
| Category | Engine |
| Date | Jul 11, 2022 |
| State | GA |
| Description | July 6, 2021 low oil light came on and I stopped to check oil and it was down 1quart. Then added oil. Miles on car 28,734. I always have oil changed every 5k miles and this was between oil changes. Happened 3200 miles into my next oil change. Mazda has a tsb out in reference to these engines and the tsb is tsb no 01-012/21 dated october 4, 2021. It states that mazda is aware of the problem and as soon as they identify the root cause a complete repair will be made. I will be bringing vehicle into dealer for an oil comsumption test in the next 1500 miles when my oil change is due. The dealer does know there problems with these engines stated in the tsb. My safety and all others are good. On the mazda forum there are many complaints and I mean many complaints on this exact same issue I'm experiencing with this vehicle. People are extremely frustrated and getting excuses that this is just normal for these engines to use a quart of oil every 3 or 4 k miles. I don't agree and this is not normal. |
| Category | Engine |
| Date | Jul 08, 2022 |
| State | MD |
| Description | On july 4th when car had only 10,300 miles driven on it, oil light came on. Oil level was down over 1. 5 quarts. Car was not due for an oil change for another 1800 miles. |
| Category | Engine |
| Date | Jun 06, 2022 |
| State | WA |
| Description | Car is burning oil. The low oil level light has come on twice, requiring additional oil be poured into the engine between oil changes. Appears the car is burning oil. |
| Category | Engine |
| Date | Jun 06, 2022 |
| State | NC |
| Description | Low engine oil level light & status is coming on for our 2021 mazda cx-5 turbo. It has 9115 miles and still 1300 miles away from needing oil change. I called our dealership today & was informed we were the 2nd to call today with message. They provided no further info. I have since found there are technical bulletins regarding this issue. Recalls need to be made & mazda should be covering all repair costs for this. |
| Category | Fuel/propulsion System, Service Brakes, Vehicle Speed Control |
| Date | Apr 27, 2022 |
| State | MA |
| Description | On april 16, 2022, around 6:45pm, I drove my new mazda cx5 (@ 3500 miles) into our church parking lot and turned right down the first row of cars. It was light out and the weather was pleasant. I turned right into a parking space with my foot on the brake. The car was facing and perpendicular to a sidewalk that was about 10 feet away. It was separated by a grassy median. When I depressed the brake further to shift from drive into park, the car surged forward and accelerated. There was a pedestrian on the sidewalk in front of the car. I turned the wheel to the right at a 90 degree angle to avoid hitting her. I kept pressing the brake but the car kept accelerating until it crashed into a large tree. The airbag deployed. Both the pedestrian and I were transported to the hospital. The pedestrian had bruises on her leg and hip, but fortunately was not more seriously injured and was released from the hospital. I was admitted to the hospital for contusions to the heart. The car hood was crushed and the car was totaled. The incident was terrifying. The police estimated the car went from nearly a standstill to about 40mph in about 15-20 feet. There were no warning lamps or messages prior to the accident. I checked the nhtsa website after the accident and downloaded 16 similar complaints where low mileage mazda cx5s accelerated out of control when drivers were attempting to park or stop. |
| Category | Lane Departure: Blind Spot Detection |
| Date | Feb 24, 2022 |
| State | FL |
| Description | Bsm does not see all vehicles in the blind spot. It is very inconsistent. I have taken it to the dealer who told me that they could not repair it because no fault code shows up. Mazda has not been helpful. |
| Category | Engine, Fuel/propulsion System, Power Train |
| Date | Feb 01, 2022 |
| State | GA |
| Description | When the cylinder deactivation system triggers it causes the engine/car to shake and stutter. Somtimes it's suttle and other times if feels like the car is going to stall out. It's a vibration that makes it feel like your driving over cobblestones. This has been ongoing for a few months now. I'm taking it to the dealer tomorrow. It appears to be the same problem as the 2018-2019 recall. |
| Category | Unknown Or Other |
| Date | Jan 27, 2022 |
| State | VA |
| Description | I parked my car in my driveway and accidentally left the gear in park when I turned off the engine with the push button. This is the first time I had driven this car so I didn't know what to do for the warning beep. I exited the car and took the key fob with me. My daughter exited the car just after me and when she closed the car door the pressure was enough to start the car rolling backwards. The vehicle rolled down our driveway which has a steep slope, across the street, over our neighbor's yard and crashed against their house. We are lucky that no pedestrians or other vehicles were involved. There is significant structural damage to the neighbor's house. A police report was filed. I believe this is a significant safety hazard that a driver could turn off the engine and leave with the key fob while the car is in drive and there is no braking mechanism to prevent the car from rolling! In addition, the quiet warning beep should be more pronounced such as the horn honking or something more extreme to get the attention of the distracted driver. |
| Category | Visibility/wiper |
| Date | Jan 20, 2022 |
| State | NJ |
| Description | The windshield defrost only works for the center part of the windshield given that there is only a single center defrost vent. Vision is severely impaired during rainy or snowy days (worse during nights) while driving and it makes the driving very dangerous. You can only see what is in front of you, but very limited side views due to the fog on both sides of the windshield. Attached is a pic of the windshield when I came back from a 2 mile errand run while the defrost vent was at full scale constantly. |
| Category | Lane Departure: Blind Spot Detection |
| Date | Jan 10, 2022 |
| State | FL |
| Description | The blind spot monitoring system does not function properly. While on the freeway some vehicles show up and some do not. I took it to the dealer, and they test drove it and said it was working properly and there were no codes. I contacted mazda and they made a second appointment for me, and I took it back. I told them that it only does it on the freeway and I sent them a video showing the problem. They said they drove it again (not on the freeway) and told me it worked fine and since there was no code, they could not fix it. I called mazda again and they told me they could make an appointment at another dealer. The nearest dealer is an hour away and they had my vehicle for 7 days the first time and three days the second time. I don't have the ability to take it an hour away and leave it for days. This is a safety issue and needs to be repaired. I had the same vehicle only it was a 2018 and never had this problem. |
| Category | Visibility/wiper |
| Date | Jan 05, 2022 |
| State | WA |
| Description | On this model of mazda, they only manufactured it with 1 small center defrost vent on the windshield, and nothing on the sides. Therefore the windshield only gets defrosted in the center, not in front of the driver. I live in the pacific northwest and it rains a lot which results in foggy windows, I feel it is extremely unsafe driving a car that doesn't defrost the full windshield, more importantly in front of the drivers view. I have severely degraded visibility 80% of the time I'm driving because of how poorly designed defrost ducts are |
| Category | Engine |
| Date | Dec 28, 2021 |
| State | NY |
| Description | The contact owns a 2021 mazda cx-5. The contact stated that while stopped at a stop sign, the vehicle failed to accelerate while the accelerator pedal was depressed. The contact restarted the vehicle and corrected the failure. The vehicle was taken to the dealer. The dealer performed a special service program (ssp) recall #: sspc7 (tcu connect concern cv/battery) where the tcu software was updated; however, the failure recurred. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and informed the contact that there was no additional recall associated with the vin. The failure mileage was approximately 300. |
| Category | Engine, Power Train |
| Date | Dec 22, 2021 |
| State | NY |
| Description | Bought the car brand new in may 2021, did a first oil change at around 4k miles due to the fact the car uses conventional 5w-30 oil and not synthetic oil. At around 7k miles the low oil engine light came on. Checked the dipstick and it was low. Added a quart of oil to hold me over until the next available appointment. Dealer could not find any leaks, they completed a oil change again. I went in again at 11k for another oil change. Had no problems. A few days ago at 14k low engine light came on, this time I turned the car off. Let it sit over night. Made an appointment with the dealer for the next day. Turned the car on the next morning, light went away. Both times I got a notification from mazda connect services alerting me of these problems. (please see attached) I brought the car in on 12/22/21 and was told the car was low on oil and nothing else could be done until mazda comes up with a solution. |
| Category | Unknown Or Other |
| Date | Dec 09, 2021 |
| State | AR |
| Description | 2021 mazda cr-5 automatic rear hatch comes open on its own. This has happened 6-7 times. I make sure the car is locked and have come back to parking lot to find the hatch open. I have even locked the car and when I have walked to door of walmart (long way off) and look back the hatch is not open. When I come back out, the rear hatch is open. I took to dealership and they could not rectify the problem. |
| Category | Engine |
| Date | Nov 24, 2021 |
| State | IL |
| Description | On nov 4th my mazda cx5 alerted me to low engine oil level by illuminating dashboard symbol and app notification. I attached a file containing an explanation of the issue, emails directed to mazda corporation and napelton mazda in naperville il. I also attached screenshots of the in app notification and the mazda tsb which I had to find on my own because mazda coporate and both the selling/servicing dealer would not acknowledge the oil burning issue. |
| Category | Electrical System, Fuel System, Gasoline |
| Date | Nov 05, 2021 |
| State | NM |
| Description | The contact owns a 2021 mazda cx5. The contact stated that the fuel gauge was not operating properly. The vehicle was taken to the dealer and the dealer reprogrammed the transmission control unit (tcu). However, the failure recurred. After taking the vehicle back from the dealer, the contact was driving at an undisclosed speed, when the windshield wiper inadvertently engaged, and several unknown warning lights illuminated. Additionally, the headlights inadvertently turned off and the steering wheel pulled the contact's arm down and the vehicle went to the median, running over a metal pole. The cruise control would not deactivate, and the brakes would not engage immediately. No injuries were sustained. A police report was filed. The vehicle was taken to another dealer, hiley mazda of huntsville (6934 hwy 72 w, huntsville, al 35806). The dealer measured the fuel level resistance range of the fuel level sender and informed the contact that the fuel level sending unit needed replacement. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was 1,629. |
| Category | Unknown Or Other |
| Date | Nov 03, 2021 |
| State | OH |
| Description | The design of the remote control is poor. Placement of the buttons on the side and the light pressure needed to activate the unlock for the trunk has led to it opening unexpectedly. It can open and strike a pedestrian when you did not intend to activate the powered trunk open feature. It could also open when near an object and damage the trunk b/c of how sensitive the remote buttons are. This has also led to the doors unlocking b/c of placement and light pressure needed to activate. On one occasion the button was pressed accidentally and the trunk was partially open as I backed up. |
| Category | Unknown Or Other |
| Date | Oct 08, 2021 |
| State | SC |
| Description | Primary hood latch released while driving. It happened at night in heavy rain and was not seen. This vehicle appears to lack a hood open warning indicator. I am unable to find it in the manual. There is an indicator for doors and back hatch but not the hood. Had the secondary latch failed, this could have had a catastrophic outcome. |
| Category | Electrical System |
| Date | Oct 04, 2021 |
| State | KY |
| Description | The contact owns a 2021 mazda cx5. The contact stated that after the vehicle was serviced at the dealer under manufacturer's recall number: sspc7 for the tcu, the contact was driving at an undisclosed speed, when the "keyless ignition malfunction" warning light was illuminated. The contact was able to drive to his residence, but when he attempted to turn off the vehicle, the vehicle would not turn off. The contact had to disconnect the fuel pump fuse for the vehicle to turn off. The vehicle would also not turn on when the contact attempted to start the vehicle. The dealer was made aware of the failure and informed the contact to contact the manufacturer for assistance. The vehicle was diagnosed and repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and informed the contact they would send for a tow truck, but the tow truck never showed up. The failure mileage was approximately 4,400. |
| Category | Exterior Lighting |
| Date | Aug 23, 2021 |
| State | IL |
| Description | We have a new 2021 cx5 and the two taillights (the ones that are on top of the backup lights) do not light up. The dealer, napleton mazda in libertyville, il, told us that that is normal and those lights are not meant to light up. The dealer said they have many customers bringing their car in for service for the same issue, but it is not something they can fix. At night the car is not as visible as it should be, especially if you are in a dark area and stopped without your foot on the brake. We had the police pull over my daughter in the car saying she had no lights in the rear. This is not on all these models, but we were told this particular model doesn't have the lights, even though the light kits are installed. |
| Category | Electrical System, Engine, Power Train |
| Date | May 17, 2021 |
| State | MA |
| Description | On 17-may-2021 after sitting unused for 1 day my mazda cx-5, mfg year 2021 with about 1,500 miles did not start. All electrical systems failed, there was no indication of any power present. The vehicle is presently at the dealership it was purchased at about 90 days ago, 495 mazda in lowell ma and is available for inspection. The sudden loss of all electrical systems has the potential for stranding the driver and passengers in dangerous locations. The problem has not yet been reproduced. The vehicle has been inspected by the service department of 495 mazda in lowell ma who advised they had charged the battery and tested it as ok and offered to return the vehicle to me. There were no warning lights or other indication of this problem. This morning when I called for service, the dealer, 495 mazda informed me they do not pick up failed automobiles and I should either call mazda roadside assistance or jump start the car and bring it in. I measured the battery voltage at 2. 5 volts and charged it with a high quality battery charger. The car then started. After shutting off the car there was a faint buzzing sound from the engine compartment. I advised the dealer service department of all these details. I would also note that after the car started I measured the battery voltage at over 14 volts proving the charging system works, after shutting off the engine the voltage dropped to 12. 1 volts. |
| Category | Visibility/wiper |
| Date | Mar 22, 2021 |
| State | AK |
| Description | I was driving on the highway at about 65mph and heard a loud pop. I was unsure what it could have been, but knew it came from the roof area. I opened the slider to the sunroof. The glass had exploded!! I pulled over to assess the damage and noticed the glass exploded outward. I have pictures showing the hole in the glass as well as the shards (held together by safety coating) pointing up and away from the car from having exploded out. |
| Category | Unknown Or Other |
| Date | Mar 07, 2021 |
| State | WI |
| Description | The informant controls are not safe to use while driving. Way to many sub groups to scroll through just to get the radio to work. Very confusing and distracting. |
| Category | Unknown Or Other |
| Date | Feb 25, 2021 |
| State | VA |
| Description | The paint on this car is notoriously poor and mazda is aware. We purchased this vehicle on 16 february 2021, drove it home and left it in the driveway due to snow/ice. On thursday, 18 february instead of brushing or scraping off the ice we left it to melt. Unfortunately, the ice melt left huge scratches on the hood. There is no reason for ice/snow to cause this much damage. We reviewed a number of websites and it appears that mazda is aware of this inferior paint and has done nothing to rectify the problem. But they do charge 5 more for it. I have not received any call backs from mazda corporation. Browns chantilly did attempt to repair the damage but all that did was mask it slightly. The damage is still very visible. This car has 12 miles on it and most of those are from the dealer. I am unable to upload more than one photo. The photo shows the largest scratch but t here are many more on the car. |
| Category | Service Brakes |
| Date | Jan 31, 2021 |
| State | NY |
| Description | We bought the car new off the mazda dealership lot yesterday with 5 miles on the odo. As my husband pulled off the lot he smelled a burning smell and the brakes felt like they'd seized up a bit. He pulled over and thought about turning back onto the lot, but then thought it may be just because they're new brakes and continued on and drove home. This morning we remotely started the vehicle and the mazda app sent us an alert that there is a critical vehicle malfunction having to do with the antilock brake system. The dealers are closed, so I don't have any more info yet. I just signed back on to the app and there's a second malfunction alert now with the emergency land keeping. There are now currently 65 miles on the odo. We have only driven the vehicle from the dealership home and parked it outside over night. |
| Category | Structure:body |
| Date | Jan 09, 2021 |
| State | NY |
| Description | Red soul on the cx5 having excessive paint chipping. Less than 5k miles on the car and have only had for 3 months and there's already 9 to 10 chips on the hood and driver door. |
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About the Author:
Brian Jones spent more than 20 years working as an ASE Certified Master Tech and Parts Specialist at multiple dealerships. Brian has become an authority in the industry, traveling across the country to consult for car dealerships and contributing his expertise as a writer for several major automotive publications. In his spare time, Brian enjoys working on pickup trucks, muscle cars, Jeeps and anything related to motorsports.
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Having to control the screen by the buttons on the bottom of the console no touch screen very dangerous