Common problems · Mazda
Mazda CX-5 common problems and recalls
10 sourced problems across the CX-5's generations since 2012, plus 18 DVSA recalls. Enter a registration to see the ones that apply to your exact car.
Free · no signup · recalls, MOT data and researched problems
CX-5 (KF, second generation) (2017–2026)
Acknowledged by the manufacturer
Recalls, extended warranties, compensation schemes, service actions and statements.
- Recall · MazdaEngine
Recall: soot build-up at the diesel intake shutter valve
Soot can build up around the intake shutter valve on the inlet side of the diesel engine. The valve shuts the engine down smoothly; clogged, it can upset the fuel supply so the engine stalls or will not start. Dealers clean or replace the valve and update the engine software.
Applies to: CX-5, Mazda3 and Mazda6 diesels built 26 January 2012 – 30 June 2018
DVSA's recall record does not name the engine; Auto Express says it concerns diesel models, so it is shown for diesels.
- Recall · MazdaFuel system
Recall: low-pressure fuel pump can fail
The impeller in the low-pressure fuel pump can deform and the pump can then fail. Dealers fit an improved pump. Build windows: Mazda2 Oct 2017 – Oct 2018; CX-3 Oct 2017 – Sep 2019; Mazda6 and CX-5 Apr – Oct 2018; Mazda3 Apr 2018 – Jan 2019; MX-5 Apr – Oct 2018.
Applies to: Mazda2, Mazda3, Mazda6, CX-3, CX-5 and MX-5 built 2017–2019 (windows vary by model)
DVSA does not say which engine; only some cars built in the window are included.
- Recall · MazdaEmissions, DPF & AdBlue
Recall: SCR emissions system wiring can be damaged
Contamination can damage the wiring of the SCR (selective catalytic reduction) emissions system. Dealers inspect the harness, repair it if needed and fit a protector.
Applies to: CX-5 built 15 May 2018 – 24 September 2020
Only cars with an SCR emissions system; DVSA does not say which engines have one.
Reported by owners and the motoring press
Problems at least two independent publishers report, that the maker has not acknowledged. They describe the model, not every car.
- Reported by 3 publishersEmissions, DPF & AdBlue
If it has the 2.2 Skyactiv-D diesel: 2.2 Skyactiv-D diesel: DPF problems and fuel diluting the oil
The diesel particulate filter cleans itself by burning off soot, and the process needs a decent run to finish. On cars that do mostly short trips it is often cut short: the filter can clog, and fuel from the process washes past the piston rings into the sump, so the oil level creeps up and the diluted oil protects the engine less well. The dipstick carries an X mark above MAX; once the level passes it the oil and filter need changing. Regular longer runs and on-time oil changes are the usual answer.
Applies to: CX-5 (2012 on), Mazda6 (2012–2023) and Mazda3 (2013–2019) with the 2.2 Skyactiv-D diesel
Only the 2.2 diesel. Cars used mostly for short, cold journeys are the ones most affected.
7 sources
- FAI Auto Parts — Technical Bulletin TB0048: Mazda 2.2 D – oil contamination (Mazda 3, 6, CX-5 2012> SHY1/4)
- Mazda Specialist Ltd (Bicester) — Mazda 2.2 Diesel Skyactiv: Common Issues Explained
- What Car? — Used Mazda CX-5 2012-2017 review – reliability & common problems
- Auto Express — Used Mazda CX-5 (Mk1, 2012-2017) review
- What Car? — Used Mazda CX-5 2017-present review – reliability & common problems (owners' view)
- What Car? — Used Mazda 6 Saloon 2013-2022 review – reliability & common problems
- Auto Express — Used Mazda 3 (Mk3, 2014-2019) review
DVSA recalls for the CX-5 (KF, second generation)
Listed by DVSA for this model during these build years. Not every car is affected — check yours by VIN on GOV.UK.
- Vehicles may unexpectedly stop due to inadvertent activation of the automated smart brake support (sbs) systemR/2020/009 · 29/01/2020
Vehicles may unexpectedly stop due to inadvertent activation of the automated Smart Brake Support (SBS) system
Remedy: The vehicle control module is reprogrammed with modified software.
Listed for: MAZDA3, CX-30 · built 2018–2019
- ECU ReprogrammingR/2024/470 · 28/11/2024
On affected vehicles when the hybrid system is powered on or the engine is started multiple warning messages may be displayed the defroster seat belt warning and 360° view monitor functions may not operate the vehicle may to stall or fail to restart.
Remedy: Reprogram the affected ECUs.
Listed for: CX-60 · built 2022–2024
- Inoperable defroster and seat belt warning lightR/2024/472 · 28/11/2024
On affected vehicles When the hybrid system is powered on or the engine is started multiple warning messages may be displayed the PHEV high-voltage battery cooling system may not function as intended (only PHEV). The defroster seat belt warning and 360° view monitor functions may not operate as designed.
Remedy: Reprogram the affected ECUs
Listed for: CX-60 · built 2022–2024
- Instrument cluster module software concernR/2024/473 · 28/11/2024
On affected vehicles it is possible that a warning to prompt steering wheel operation may not be indicated on the instrument cluster when the driver releases or loosely grips the steering wheel for a certain period while using the Cruising & Traffic Support.
Remedy: Reprogram the instrument cluster module.
Listed for: CX-60 · built 2022–2023
Show 12 more
- The recall affects the load bearing collar of a certain type of option fit accessory alloy wheel whereby the collar is either missing or misaligned.R/2023/103 · 27/03/2023
The recall affects the load bearing collar of a certain type of option fit accessory alloy wheel whereby the collar is either missing or misaligned.
Remedy: Check the wheel and check the insert alignment.
Listed for: CX-60 · built 2022
- On affected vehicles a fault relating to the Steering rack could result in the driver experiencing a sudden increase in the effort required to steer the vehicle. This could increase the risk of an accident in certain circumstances.R/2024/020 · 22/01/2024
On affected vehicles a fault relating to the Steering rack could result in the driver experiencing a sudden increase in the effort required to steer the vehicle.� This could increase the risk of an accident in certain circumstances.��
Remedy: Reapply grease to the steering rack gear teeth and replace the worm gear spring.�
Listed for: CX-60 · built 2022–2023
- On affected vehicles when the Hybrid system is READY ON or the vehicle power position is switched ON a blackout may occur on the instrument cluster and vehicle information such as speedometer fuel gauge and i-ACTIVSENSE status may not be d…R/2023/124 · 21/04/2023
On affected vehicles when the Hybrid system is READY ON or the vehicle power position is switched ON a blackout may occur on the instrument cluster and vehicle information such as speedometer fuel gauge and i-ACTIVSENSE status may not be displayed.
Remedy: Reprogram the control software of instrument cluster with modified software.
Listed for: CX-60 · built 2022–2023
- On affected vehicles after decelerating/stopping while driving with the i-stop function activated the engine may not restart even when the accelerator pedal is depressed.R/2023/138 · 21/04/2023
On affected vehicles after decelerating/stopping while driving with the i-stop function activated the engine may not restart even when the accelerator pedal is depressed.
Remedy: Reprogram the DC-AC inverter for MHEV motor ECU.
Listed for: CX-60 · built 2022–2023
- On affected vehicles when the Hybrid system is READY ON or the vehicle power position is switched ON a blackout may occur on the instrument cluster and vehicle information such as speedometer fuel gauge and i-ACTIVSENSE status may not be d…R/2023/122 · 19/04/2023
On affected vehicles when the Hybrid system is READY ON or the vehicle power position is switched ON a blackout may occur on the instrument cluster and vehicle information such as speedometer fuel gauge and i-ACTIVSENSE status may not be displayed.
Remedy: Reprogram the control software of instrument cluster with modified software.
Listed for: CX-60 · built 2022–2023
- Control logic which monitors the charging control program fails to divert electrical power away from capacitor in the event of a faultR/2018/237 · 17/09/2018
On the subject vehicles the control logic which monitors the charging control program fails to divert the electrical power away from the capacitor when a fault is detected within the capacitor circuit. This can cause a short circuit inside the DCDC converter and could cause the engine to stall or overheating of the DC…
Remedy: Reprogram the PCM with the correct control logic. If error code �U3000: 49-DCDC� is stored � the DCDC Converter must also be replaced.
Listed for: MX5, CX-3 · built 2015–2017
- The powered tailgate may partially lower unexpectedly from the fully opened position in certain situationsR/2021/077 · 12/04/2021
The powered tailgate may partially lower unexpectedly from the fully opened position in certain situations.
Remedy: Inspect the production information and update the software of the power tailgate drive unit. Where necessary replace the power tailgate drive unit.
Listed for: CX-30 · built 2019–2020
- On affected vehicles the engine as well as the electric motor may shut down to failsafe mode with little or even no warning.R/2023/310 · 06/11/2023
On affected vehicles the engine as well as the electric motor may shut down to failsafe mode with little or even no warning.
Remedy: Update the software.
Listed for: CX-60 · built 2022–2023
- On certain vehicles the engine may fail to start while driving or when at a stop.R/2023/311 · 06/11/2023
On certain vehicles the engine may fail to start while driving or when at a stop.
Remedy: Reprogram the PCM with the latest applicable software version.
Listed for: CX-60 · built 2022–2023
- On affected vehicles the images from the rear view / 360 cameras may not display.R/2023/312 · 06/11/2023
On affected vehicles the images from the rear view / 360� cameras may not display.
Remedy: Re-program the View Monitor Control (VMC) module with improved software.
Listed for: CX-30, MAZDA3 · built 2023
- Transmission Control Module (TCM) software concernR/2024/296 · 02/08/2024
On affected vehicles a fault relating to the software that controls the engine / electric motor clutch may prevent the clutch from re-engaging after braking is carried out.
Remedy: Update the Transmission Control Module with revised software.
Listed for: CX-60 · built 2022–2024
- Software error can cause engine to failR/2018/087 · 02/04/2018
On the subject vehicles the engine protection logic does not work properly. When the engine speed reaches maximum with no engine load present � the software is unable to cut the engine. This could in extreme cases cause catastrophic engine failure. Immediate and catastrophic engine damage may result.
Remedy: Re-program the engine protection software within the PCM.
Listed for: MAZDA3, MAZDA2, CX-3 · built 2015–2017
Measured at MOT: how a 2022 CX-5 fails more often
Based on 14,118 first MOT tests of this model at 4 years old (cars first used 2020–2021), compared against every car of the same age and fuel.
Nothing stands out. No category fails clearly more often on this model than on cars of the same age and fuel.
How to read this
These are MOT outcomes for other cars of the same model, age and fuel — not a prediction about this one, and not a fault diagnosis. A high rate means the category is worth checking, not that this car has a problem.
A comparison is only shown where it survives its own margin of error. Where a model is only slightly above average, both rates are shown and no multiple is given, because the data cannot tell the difference.
MOT results reflect how a car has been used and maintained as much as the model itself. High mileage, short journeys and deferred servicing all show up here.
Contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0. Failure rates derived by FindServiceHistory from the DVSA anonymised MOT test and failure-item extracts.
CX-5 (KE, first generation) (2011–2017)
Acknowledged by the manufacturer
Recalls, extended warranties, compensation schemes, service actions and statements.
- Recall · MazdaEngine
Recall: soot build-up at the diesel intake shutter valve
Soot can build up around the intake shutter valve on the inlet side of the diesel engine. The valve shuts the engine down smoothly; clogged, it can upset the fuel supply so the engine stalls or will not start. Dealers clean or replace the valve and update the engine software.
Applies to: CX-5, Mazda3 and Mazda6 diesels built 26 January 2012 – 30 June 2018
DVSA's recall record does not name the engine; Auto Express says it concerns diesel models, so it is shown for diesels.
- Recall · MazdaFuel system
Recall: injector control software can make the engine stall
The software controlling the fuel injectors did not control their electric current correctly, which could short-circuit the injector circuit and stall the engine without warning. Dealers reprogram the software.
Applies to: CX-5, Mazda3 and Mazda6 built 26 January 2012 – 21 January 2016
DVSA does not say which engine; only some cars built in the window are included.
- Recall · MazdaEngine
Recall: loose injector mounting nuts can contaminate the oil
Injector mounting nuts may not have been tightened enough, letting combustion gas leak into the cylinder head and contaminate the oil. That can block the oil strainer: the oil pressure and engine warning lights come on and the engine can stall. Dealers check the engine for contamination, repair it if needed and retighten the injectors.
Applies to: CX-5, Mazda3 and Mazda6 built 26 January 2012 – 21 January 2016
DVSA does not say which engine; only some cars built in the window are included.
- Recall · MazdaBrakes
Recall: brake vacuum pump can wear early
The vacuum pump that powers the brake servo can wear prematurely. If the pedal is pressed quickly at low engine speed, braking assistance can drop for a moment. Dealers fit a modified pump.
Applies to: CX-5, Mazda3 and Mazda6 built 26 January 2012 – 21 January 2016
DVSA does not say which engine; only some cars built in the window are included.
- Recall · MazdaBody & corrosion
Recall: tailgate struts can corrode and let the tailgate drop
Water can get into the tailgate gas struts and corrode them, weakening their attachment so the tailgate can drop without warning. Dealers replace both struts. Build windows: CX-5 Nov 2011 – Dec 2015; Mazda6 hatch and saloon Oct 2007 – Aug 2012; Mazda6 estate Dec 2007 – Dec 2015; Mazda3 Feb 2008 – Aug 2013; Mazda5 Jun 2010 – Apr 2015; CX-3 Feb – Dec 2015.
Applies to: CX-5, Mazda3, Mazda5, Mazda6 and CX-3 built 2007–2015 (windows vary by model)
On the Mazda6 built from 2012 only the Tourer (estate) is included; DVLA does not record the body style.
- Recall · MazdaElectrics
Recall: LED daytime running lights can flicker or fail
One or both LED daytime running lights can flicker, flash or stop working. Dealers replace the seals and fit gas-absorbing sheets, or replace a lamp that has already failed.
Applies to: CX-5 with LED daytime running lights, built 11 December 2014 – 8 December 2015
Only cars with LED daytime running lights; DVLA does not record the lamps fitted.
Reported by owners and the motoring press
Problems at least two independent publishers report, that the maker has not acknowledged. They describe the model, not every car.
- Reported by 2 publishersBody & corrosion
Windscreen prone to stress cracks
An unusually high number of first-generation CX-5 windscreens have developed stress cracks, enough to cause a shortage of replacement screens early in the car's life. The supply problem has been fixed, but the screen appears more vulnerable than most. Parkers puts it down to one batch of cars; if the screen has been replaced, check the paint and trim around it.
Applies to: CX-5 first generation (2012–2017)
- Reported by 3 publishersEmissions, DPF & AdBlue
If it has the 2.2 Skyactiv-D diesel: 2.2 Skyactiv-D diesel: DPF problems and fuel diluting the oil
The diesel particulate filter cleans itself by burning off soot, and the process needs a decent run to finish. On cars that do mostly short trips it is often cut short: the filter can clog, and fuel from the process washes past the piston rings into the sump, so the oil level creeps up and the diluted oil protects the engine less well. The dipstick carries an X mark above MAX; once the level passes it the oil and filter need changing. Regular longer runs and on-time oil changes are the usual answer.
Applies to: CX-5 (2012 on), Mazda6 (2012–2023) and Mazda3 (2013–2019) with the 2.2 Skyactiv-D diesel
Only the 2.2 diesel. Cars used mostly for short, cold journeys are the ones most affected.
7 sources
- FAI Auto Parts — Technical Bulletin TB0048: Mazda 2.2 D – oil contamination (Mazda 3, 6, CX-5 2012> SHY1/4)
- Mazda Specialist Ltd (Bicester) — Mazda 2.2 Diesel Skyactiv: Common Issues Explained
- What Car? — Used Mazda CX-5 2012-2017 review – reliability & common problems
- Auto Express — Used Mazda CX-5 (Mk1, 2012-2017) review
- What Car? — Used Mazda CX-5 2017-present review – reliability & common problems (owners' view)
- What Car? — Used Mazda 6 Saloon 2013-2022 review – reliability & common problems
- Auto Express — Used Mazda 3 (Mk3, 2014-2019) review
DVSA recalls for the CX-5 (KE, first generation)
Listed by DVSA for this model during these build years. Not every car is affected — check yours by VIN on GOV.UK.
- Control logic which monitors the charging control program fails to divert electrical power away from capacitor in the event of a faultR/2018/237 · 17/09/2018
On the subject vehicles the control logic which monitors the charging control program fails to divert the electrical power away from the capacitor when a fault is detected within the capacitor circuit. This can cause a short circuit inside the DCDC converter and could cause the engine to stall or overheating of the DC…
Remedy: Reprogram the PCM with the correct control logic. If error code �U3000: 49-DCDC� is stored � the DCDC Converter must also be replaced.
Listed for: MX5, CX-3 · built 2015–2017
- Brake hose retaining clip may fail.R/2017/203 · 14/07/2017
Surface finishing of brake hose retaining clip may be insufficient causing possibility of corrosion and failure of clip.
Remedy: Replace brake hose clips with modified ones
Listed for: CX-3, MAZDA2 · built 2016
- Low pressure fuel pump impeller might become deformedR/2021/435 · 04/01/2022
The impeller in the low-pressure fuel pump may become deformed causing fuel pump failure.
Remedy: Replace the low-pressure fuel pump with an improved part.
Listed for: MAZDA2, CX-3, MAZDA6, CX-5, MAZDA3, MX5 · built 2017–2019
- Software error can cause engine to failR/2018/087 · 02/04/2018
On the subject vehicles the engine protection logic does not work properly. When the engine speed reaches maximum with no engine load present � the software is unable to cut the engine. This could in extreme cases cause catastrophic engine failure. Immediate and catastrophic engine damage may result.
Remedy: Re-program the engine protection software within the PCM.
Listed for: MAZDA3, MAZDA2, CX-3 · built 2015–2017
Measured at MOT: how a 2014 CX-5 fails more often
Based on 3,745 first MOT tests of this model at 12–16 years old (cars first used 2008–2013), compared against every car of the same age and fuel.
Nothing stands out. No category fails clearly more often on this model than on cars of the same age and fuel.
How to read this
These are MOT outcomes for other cars of the same model, age and fuel — not a prediction about this one, and not a fault diagnosis. A high rate means the category is worth checking, not that this car has a problem.
A comparison is only shown where it survives its own margin of error. Where a model is only slightly above average, both rates are shown and no multiple is given, because the data cannot tell the difference.
MOT results reflect how a car has been used and maintained as much as the model itself. High mileage, short journeys and deferred servicing all show up here.
Contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0. Failure rates derived by FindServiceHistory from the DVSA anonymised MOT test and failure-item extracts.
MOT failure rate: the CX-5 against vehicles its age
In our analysis of DVSA's anonymised MOT data for 2024 and 2025, 19.8% of 128,512 initial MOT tests on the Mazda CX-5 failed at the first attempt — 10% less often than vehicles of the same ages and fuel types, which failed 22.3%.
CX-5Cars of the same age and fuel (all makes)
| Age | Tests | Bars | CX-5 | Same age & fuel | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3–5 years | 43,487 | 12.5% | 14.4% | 11% lower | |
| 6–9 years | 59,623 | 19.8% | 23.4% | 14% lower | |
| 10–14 years | 25,402 | 32.6% | 33.4% | About the same |
These describe the model, not one car: how vehicles are used and maintained shows up as much as how they were built. Differences are the conservative end of a 95% confidence interval.
Contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0. Rates and comparisons are FindServiceHistory's own analysis, not DVSA figures.
These describe the model, not one car. Plenty of cars never have the problems their model is known for, and a recall may already have been done on yours. Every problem links to its sources; a reported problem needs two independent publishers before we list it.
Recalls are listed by DVSA for the model around its build date — check a specific car by VIN at GOV.UK. Contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0.
Common questions
What are the most common CX-5 problems?
For cars built from 2012, the problems at least two independent publishers report include: 2.2 Skyactiv-D diesel: DPF problems and fuel diluting the oil; Windscreen prone to stress cracks. Which apply depends on the generation and engine — they are listed generation by generation above, each with its sources.
Has the CX-5 been recalled?
Yes. DVSA lists recalls for the CX-5 built from 2012, shown above by generation. A recall covers a range of chassis numbers, so not every car is affected — check a specific car by VIN on GOV.UK, or by registration with our checker.
Does my CX-5 have these problems?
Not necessarily. These describe the model; many cars never have them, and a well-maintained car is less likely to. Enter your registration above to see the problems for your exact generation and engine, and whether DVSA records an outstanding recall on it. Whether a known problem was fixed is what a service history check shows.
Has this CX-5 had the work done?
A known problem matters far less on a car whose dealer records show it was fixed. A service history check returns the manufacturer's own dealership records for a specific car — and there's no charge if we find nothing.
Check a Mazda service history