EngineLow
Minor carbon buildup on direct-injection Skyactiv engines.
- Typically appears
- 80,000+ miles
- What to inspect
- Watch for rough idle; ask about intake cleaning.
2013–2019 Mazda CX-5 · common problems & known faults
The CX-5 is one of the best-driving compact SUVs and is generally very reliable — checks are minor.
Compiled & reviewed by the VehicleFaults Research Team · last reviewed July 2026
Quick answer
The most commonly reported faults on the 2013–2019 Mazda CX-5 are Rising oil level due to diesel fuel dilution on 2.2 Skyactiv-D engines, Water pump seepage and Clunking noises over bumps caused by torn front lower wishbone rear bushes. 1 of the documented issues are rated high severity · inspect these first. Full inspection points, onset mileage and what to check are listed below.
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Build the inspection planReliability snapshot
Based on the documented faults on this page for the Mazda CX-5.
6.4/ 10
- Critical
- 0
- High
- 1
- Medium
- 3
- Low
- 4
Guidance only · reflects reported patterns, not a specific car's condition.
Known faults to check
ElectricalLow
Infotainment (MZD Connect) lag and freezes.
- Typically appears
- Any
- What to inspect
- Test the screen responsiveness.
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Build the inspection planCoolingMedium
Water pump seepage.
- Typically appears
- 90,000+ miles
- What to inspect
- Inspect for coolant residue.
BodyLow
Paint chipping on early models.
- Typically appears
- Age-related
- What to inspect
- Inspect panels for chips.
Engine/LubricationHigh
Rising oil level due to diesel fuel dilution on 2.2 Skyactiv-D engines.
- Typically appears
- 40,000-70,000 miles
- What to inspect
- Pull the engine oil dipstick and check if the fluid level has reached or exceeded the stamped 'X' mark located above the maximum indicator.
SuspensionMedium
Clunking noises over bumps caused by torn front lower wishbone rear bushes.
- Typically appears
- 60,000-80,000 miles
- What to inspect
- Apply the handbrake, engage first gear or Drive, and gently pulse the throttle. Have an observer watch the front wheels for excessive fore and aft movement.
Electrical/BodyLow
Power folding wing mirrors fail to retract or deploy, often accompanied by an internal clicking noise.
- Typically appears
- 30,000-60,000 miles
- What to inspect
- Cycle the mirror fold switch on the driver's door panel three times to ensure both mirrors operate smoothly without juddering, stalling, or clicking.
BrakesMedium
Rear brake binding and premature pad wear due to Electronic Parking Brake (EPB) actuator failure.
- Typically appears
- 50,000-80,000 miles
- What to inspect
- Engage and disengage the EPB switch multiple times. Listen for strained motor noises from the rear wheels and inspect the rear brake discs for excessive scoring or blue heat discoloration.
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Build my inspection planFrequently asked questions
Is the Mazda CX-5 reliable?
Very — it's a strong, well-built compact SUV with only minor issues to check.
Does the CX-5 have engine problems?
No major faults for this generation; Skyactiv engines are durable.
What should I check on a used CX-5?
Infotainment operation, service history, and the usual wear items.
Are the 2.2 Skyactiv-D diesel models suitable for short city journeys?
No. The 2.2-litre diesel requires regular motorway runs to complete its Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) regeneration cycles. Short trips interrupt this process, causing unburnt fuel to wash past the piston rings and dilute the engine oil, which can lead to premature camshaft wear or complete engine failure.
Does the Mazda CX-5 use a timing belt or a timing chain?
Both the 2.0-litre petrol and 2.2-litre diesel Skyactiv engines utilise a timing chain rather than a rubber timing belt. These chains are designed to last the lifetime of the vehicle and do not require routine replacement, provided the vehicle receives regular oil changes using the correct grade of synthetic oil.
How robust is the all-wheel-drive system on AWD CX-5 variants?
The i-ACTIV AWD system is generally very reliable, but it is highly sensitive to mismatched tyres. Ensure all four tyres share the same brand, tread pattern, and wear level. Significant differences in rolling radius can overwork the transfer box and rear differential, leading to overheating and mechanical failure.
Sources & further reading
Faults are compiled from documented recalls, technical bulletins, owner reports and mechanic sources, then reviewed for accuracy. This is guidance only · not a substitute for a professional inspection.
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