Lauded by Mazda North America as its best-selling vehicle in the U.S. for 2024, the Mazda CX-5 crossover SUV “provides customers with a well-equipped vehicle and an impressive list of standard technology and safety features.” This, states the automaker, delivers “a rewarding experience behind the wheel.” However, those who have experienced serious safety issues with their Mazda steering, brakes, and/or forward collision avoidance system are finding the experience stressful.
Click on other model year to view more problems:2019202020212022
Most Common Problems
Complaints to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) about the 2024 Mazda CX-5 are varied. They tend to fall into two groups: initial-release AWD SUV models and later-release models. Both sets of complaints highlight issues with forward collision avoidance, braking systems, and steering performance.
Additional problem areas include backover prevention, the electrical system, engine, fuel/propulsion system, lane departure, latches/locks/linkages, powertrain, seats, structure, vehicle speed control, and visibility/wiper systems. Some structural complaints are tied directly to steering failures.
There are no recalls for the initial-release model. However, later-release vehicles equipped with Mazda Genuine Accessory trailer hitches are subject to a recall. The issue involves trailer hitch bolts that may loosen and detach during towing or regular driving, increasing the risk of a crash.
Don’t be stuck with a lemon. You have legal rights to cash, return or buyback.
The law makes Mazda pay legal fees.
We've fixed thousands of lemon problems. Message or call 877-795-3666 today.
Forward Collision Avoidance: Adaptive Cruise Control
3
3
Power Train
3
3
Forward Collision Avoidance and Brake Problems
Most complaints involving forward collision avoidance are also tied to brake system issues.
Problems with Early Model Vehicles
A Colorado owner reported hard braking at 35 mph on a four-lane boulevard when no obstacle was present. This was the fourth time the system activated unnecessarily. The driver noted a delay in throttle response after each event:
“In situations where AEB might have been marginally helpful, the car has NEVER detected this. Thankfully I’m an experienced driver.”
Another Colorado owner criticized the adaptive cruise control. The vehicle slowed automatically to match the speed of cars ahead but failed to activate brake lights, creating rear-end collision risks:
“It’s happened twice already. I don’t want my new car rear-ended.”
Problems with Late Model Vehicles
A Pennsylvania owner filed a complaint in March 2025 after the CX-5 braked suddenly at 75 mph while passing a truck. The tires squealed, and the driver was nearly rear-ended:
“I will never turn the forward collision system back on—it’s dangerous.”
A Minnesota owner noted that turning off the system required navigating 3–4 menus—unsafe at highway speeds.
Other Brake Problems
A parked CX-5 rolled down a driveway and hit another vehicle. The car was off, and the owner was waiting for Mazda to determine what went wrong.
An Indiana driver reported abnormal rubbing noises while braking. Despite several dealer visits, the issue couldn’t be replicated.
A Pennsylvania inspection uncovered cracks in both rear brake rotors. The outcome was not recorded.
Steering and Suspension Problems
Early Model Complaints
One owner said the CX-5 veered sharply to the right when hands were off the wheel for just a few seconds. Even after a full alignment, the issue returned within 10 miles:
“This is a major safety hazard.”
Late Model Complaints
A Washington owner noticed the steering wheel wouldn’t stay centered. After realignment, the issue returned within 40 miles. The dealer said it was due to suspension settling and advised waiting until 5,000 miles.
A California driver reported the steering pulling in the wrong direction and nearly hitting a street lamp. It had happened before, but the dealer couldn’t replicate the failure.
A Florida owner said the steering wheel detached from the column. A stripped bolt was torqued down by the dealer, but the failure reoccurred. The owner visited two dealers and described the situation as unsafe.
“I’m looking into attorneys. Mazda is being negligent and ignoring consumer safety.”
What Should You Do If Your 2024 Mazda CX-5 Is a Lemon?
If your 2024 Mazda CX-5 continues to experience serious issues that affect its safety, value, or reliability, it may qualify as a lemon.
Lemberg Law offers free case evaluations to help you understand your legal options. If your vehicle is found to be a lemon, Mazda must pay your legal fees — there’s no cost to you.
We’ve helped thousands of consumers get cash settlements, buybacks, and replacements. You could be next.
Call our Helpline or fill out our contact form today.
About the Author:
Sergei Lemberg is an attorney focusing on consumer law, class actions related to automotive issues, and personal injury litigation. With nearly two decades of experience, his areas of practice include Lemon Law (vehicle defects), Debt Collection Harassment, TCPA (illegal robocalls and texts), Fair Credit Reporting Act, Overtime claims, Personal Injury cases, and Class Actions. He has consistently been recognized as the nation's "most active consumer attorney." In 2020, Mr. Lemberg represented Noah Duguid before the United States Supreme Court in the landmark case Duguid v. Facebook. He is also the author of "Defanging Debt Collectors," a guide that empowers consumers to fight back against debt collectors and prevail, as well as "Lemon Law 101: The Laws That Lemon Dealers Don't Want You to Know."
