How many problems does the 2020 MAZDA CX-5 have?

The 2020 MAZDA CX-5 currently has 93 owner-reported complaints according to NHTSA database. These complaints are organized by component to help identify common issues.

What are the most common problems with 2020 MAZDA CX-5?

The most common problems reported for the 2020 MAZDA CX-5 are organized by component above. Each component section shows owner-reported issues, crash reports, and fire incidents to help identify patterns and problem areas.

Where does this 2020 MAZDA CX-5 problem data come from?

All problem and complaint data for the 2020 MAZDA CX-5 comes directly from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) database. These are real complaints submitted by actual vehicle owners.

2020 MAZDA CX-5 Problems

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

13 complaints

THE SUNROOF EXPLODED NORMAL TEMPS in CHICAGO IL Halloween Hight 60 desgres on while driving on HWY

Nov 01, 2025

The ongoing “ghost touch” defect in Mazda infotainment systems is a serious safety hazard that should have triggered a recall. This issue affects vehicles from model years 2016 through 2023 and stems from a design flaw present from the beginning. While driving, the system can suddenly take control of the screen—changing settings, switching stations, adjusting navigation, and even blasting the volume to maximum without driver input. On multiple occasions, I have been driving at freeway speeds when the system suddenly raised the volume to its highest level, jolting me and creating a dangerous distraction that nearly caused an accident. Mazda previously settled a lawsuit regarding this defect but only offered a free software update as a remedy. When I visited a dealership, I was told I already had the latest update—and that it does not resolve the ghost touch problem. The dealership acknowledged that it is a known design flaw, yet Mazda is charging customers around $800 to replace the defective component. This defect is widespread across multiple model years, worsens with time, and compromises the safe operation of the vehicle. Despite owning my Mazda outright and having only 40,000 miles on it, I may be forced to sell it because the vehicle has become unsafe to drive. I have a video of some of the things it does but it won’t let me upload it below.

Sep 27, 2025

Display screen (Infotainment system) will randomly change the settings of my vehicle and call people or change display features or volume control or directions that is distracting and dangerous to me as I drive.

Aug 15, 2025

Mazda has a known issue with their infotainment system and ghost touch. There was a recent lawsuit but ghost touch is not covered under the class action lawsuit. The screen will call people, change setting, and just click a bunch of things. This is extremely distracting when driving if I’m constantly having to fight to stay on my navigation screen and make sure it is not calling people. It’s a very well known issue that Mazda will not fix it and quotes around $500-700 to fix with a part that will eventually have the same issue. I have tried pleasing with Mazda and basically been told too bad. I just want my screen to work and not have to fight it constantly

Jul 30, 2025

The display screen in my CX-5 has been regularly glitching for several years now. This "ghost touch" presses random buttons, makes random phone calls, turns volume up and down, exits applications, etc. This persists (both driving and parked) until I unplug my device, restart the screen, or restart the vehicle. This happens year round regardless of outside temperature. I am unable to use certain aspects of the screen, such as navigation, when this is going on. It is extremely distracting and unsafe. My eyes are drawn to the screen instead of the road, which puts my safety and the safety of my passengers at risk. When I first reported this issue to the dealer, they explained that I was outside the "limited warranty" for the display unit and that it would cost me around $1000 to replace. I declined. About a month ago, I received a class action lawsuit notice in the mail. This notice described my exact issues. I immediately made an appointment with the dealer to get my vehicle inspected and the issue resolved under the settlement. Upon taking my vehicle to the dealer, they explained that the settlement only covers the issue if the CMU needs to be replaced- not if the problem lies with the display screen itself. They inspected my vehicle and said that my CMU does not have issues and that my screen is causing the glitches. They refused to cover the replacement of the screen, even though the Mazda Connect Infotainment Settlement describes my EXACT issues. Why isn't the settlement covering replacement of the screen if that's where 99% of consumer issues lie (according to the dealer)? I was instructed by the dealer to contact Mazda Corporate directly, who read me a scripted disclaimer saying Mazda is not providing assistance while the settlement is ongoing.

Jul 01, 2025

+ 8 more complaints for this component

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

11 complaints

I purchased this vehicle as a used car from a dealership. On my way home, the infotainment panel began to shout at top volume that this is the volume that navigation would be set at. The volume was so loud that it was startling, and it continued on until I had to pull over. I contacted the dealer, but they offered no assistance. The car continues to control itself at the panel ferning with the use of android auto so that you can't use your phone GPS for directions. The radio will control itself, changing stations, making loud beeps, and turning the volume up. There is no way to stop this feature because you can't turn the system completely off while the car is on. I can find no way to fix this on my own. I have tried resets, but have seen ample information about other people having this problem online. This does not seem to be an unknown problem and I don't know why there has not been issued a recall because it's very dangerous.

Oct 01, 2025

I own a 2020 Mazda CX-5 equipped with the Mazda Connect infotainment system. The touchscreen display malfunctions regularly by randomly selecting menu items, jumping between screens, zooming in and out, and activating functions without any input from me. These “phantom touch” events occur even when the vehicle is in Drive, which means the touchscreen should be disabled — yet the system behaves as if it’s receiving constant false touch input. When this happens, I cannot back out of screens or use the physical control knob or buttons, making it extremely distracting and unsafe while driving. The dealer initially diagnosed it as a screen laminate issue, which they said isn’t covered under warranty. However, this appears to be a known defect in the CMU (Connectivity Master Unit) that Mazda has not properly addressed in many cases, even though there is an ongoing class action settlement about it. The CMU passed their diagnostic test, but the issue persists — and others have reported receiving full replacements despite passing those same tests. Mazda refuses to escalate or repair unless the screen kit fails first. I believe this is a defect affecting driver safety, especially since it continues while the vehicle is moving.

Jul 28, 2025

*This is not part of the class action lawsuit* Per attorneys for the complaint, this issue is not part or covered by that lawsuit* This is concerning the infotainment system and what is known by Mazda as “ghosting”. Mazda for safety disables touch screen while car is out of park or driving. The ghosting issue ( which simulates touching of the screen) has overridden the safety lock out feature. While driving or in gear, the ghosting issue will increase radio volume to max, start beeping, changing different features, place calls etc. This sudden unexpected “ghosting” startled me and distracted me from safe driving. This can lead to accidents. Mazda is aware of this issue as they issued a warranty extension due to a previous complaint with the NHTSA in 2019. However, Mazda did not change the defective part/s in their vehicles and the issue continues on 2020 models. In my 2020 Mazda CX-5 this issue has been happening for approximately 2 years getting progressively worse.

Jun 24, 2025

The contact owns a 2020 Mazda CX-5. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle shuddered and lost automotive power and failed to exceed 15 MPH. The vehicle failed to return to normal operation. The failure had occurred on several occasions. The contact stated that the infotainment system was inoperative. The contact stated that several unknown warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a dealer where it was diagnosed that the ignition coils needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed that the CPU system needed to be replaced. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 80,000.

Feb 13, 2025

The infotainment screen kept moving on its own disconnecting my map while driving. I took it to Mazda and they updated the software but the infotainment continued to malfunction . The same issue happened with Mazda CX vehicles in 2016 and 2017 and they issued a recall for those cars. My 2020 CX-5 is experiencing the same “Ghost Touch Screen” but Mazda had not issued a recall. I ended up having to replace the infotainment screen, paid $ 912.67 for a manufacturer issue that was not created by the wear and tear of the car. Maybe other consumers are having the same issue.

Aug 13, 2024

+ 6 more complaints for this component

ENGINE

9 complaints

I noticed an oil leak. I had it diagnosed and its a crack in the cylinder head, right above the exhaust manifold. This is known issue for Mazda's online. There is oil spilling everywhere. The oil burns off as it is driving. Smoke fills my car.

Jul 29, 2025

Engine developed multiple oil leaks from oil seal and timing cover. The leaks could result in engine failure and endanger driver and/or passengers. No warning lights activated, was found at routine oil change. Defect was reported to manufacturer, but warranty had expired, and they refused accept responsibility. Research revealed this vehicle is known to have this defect.

Jul 19, 2025

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.

Oct 15, 2024

The engine of this vehicle has been leaking from different areas consistently. The first leak was the timing cover gasket not properly sealing from manufacture. The dealership covered this under warranty without push back. I then identified a weep from the oil pan gasket during a normal oil change interval. This gasket leak was again from manufacture. I had watched this leak and it seemed to be getting worse over changes and evolved beyond a weep. I also found oil leaking onto one of the spark plugs when changed around 56K miles. I brought it to the dealership and received much push back, conducted oil consumption test for a visible leak, and then placed dye in the oil. It was identified as the oil pan gasket leaking. After much hesitation I eventually was able to get this "repaired" by the dealership at 57K miles. We are now nearly crossing 65K miles and a new leak has presented, enough to cause the low oil light to illuminate and pooling of oil on the access cover. I have yet to identify the source but I am again bringing this to the dealer. Safety concern is that my wife and toddler were an hour away from home on the side of the highway when this light illuminated and had to stop on the side of the road in the cold weather and turn the car off. They could be pulled over in unsafe areas or even be stranded in the cold - or risk seizing the engine to stay warm.

Mar 03, 2023

Faulty engine coolant thermostat causing cooler than normal range engine. Engine light code P0126

Feb 08, 2023

+ 4 more complaints for this component

SERVICE BRAKES

6 complaints

On Septmber 2, 2023 the car had been on a 4 hour road trip. I came into the driveway, left the car running in Park with the brakes on (listening to music while I cleaned the car out) it was idylling for about 5 minutes. I went to the drivers side door, which was open and reached in to turn the car off using the start/stop button. Before I could turn the car off, it started backing up and the door ran over me. The car was definitely in Park and the Brake was on. There was no reason for the parking brake to disengage.

Sep 26, 2023

Injuries: 1

My car only has 32000 miles on it and I was told that I need new brakes and calipers. My car is making grinding and creaking noises when I back up, stop or get into it. Because of these brake issues it feels like the car is taking longer to stop. I have never had a car that needed this extensive of a brake job at 32000 miles. This seems excessive.

Aug 07, 2023

TRY TO PART WHEN I STEP ON THE. BREAK, DID NOT STOP KEEPING RIGHT ON GOING.

Dec 08, 2020

Crash: 1

BOUGHT A MAZDA CX5 JUNE 2020 AND IT WAS INVOLVE IN A ACCIDENT SEPT 17TH 2020 DO TO BRAKE FAILURE. MY MOTHER WAS DRIVING THE VEHICLE AND ATTEMPTED PARKING IN A APARTMENT COMPLEX WHEN THE VEHICLE FAILED TO STOP AND COLLIDED WITH THE FACILITY 20FT IN FRONT OF THE PARKING SPACE. AT THE INCIDENT, I THE OWNER, FOUND 3 DAMAGE ROTORS WERE THE FLAW CAME FROM HEAVY GRINDING AT THE CALIBER (SEE ATTACH PHOTOS). WITHIN THE CALIBER'S ALLOY YOU CAN ALSO SEE THE CHIPPED ALLOY PRODUCED FROM A FLAW & THE ALIGNMENT OF WHERE IT GRINDS THE ROTOR (SEE ATTACHED PHOTOS). A WITNESS STATED SHE WAS PRESENT DURING THE TIME OF THE COLLISION AND A POLICE REPORT WAS TAKE FROM THE WITNESS. I CAN PROVIDE PLENTY OF MORE PICTURES AND VIDEOS TO EXPLAIN THE GEOGRAPHIC AND DEMONSTRATE VIA VIDEO THE FLAWS AT THE COLLISION. I'VE ATTEMPT CONTACTING MAZDA FOUR TIMES BUT THEY CONTINUE TO PLACED THE BLAME ON ME "FOR BAD DRIVING DAMAGING ITEMS THEY CONSIDER TEAR AND WEAR PRODUCTS (ROTORS AND CALIBERS)" I EXPLAINED I ONLY HAD THE VEHICLE FOR 3MONTHS AND ITS THREE ROTORS WITH SIMILAR DAMAGE. YET THEY TOLD ME MY INSURANCE MUST FIND THEM AT BLAME. MY INSURANCE APPRAISER STATED THEY WILL NOT GO TO THAT DISTANCE; THEY JUST FIX OR PAY OFF THE LOAN. I AM FUSTRATED! YOU ALL ARE MY LAST HOPE! GOING THROUGH MY INSURANCE WILL CAUSE ME A DEDUCTABLE AND AT FAULT BLAME. GOING THROUGH MAZDA IS INSULTING THEIR PRODUCT, YET I FIND THIS FRIGHTING BUT IT'S THEIR RESPONSIBILITY TO CONDUCT FURTHER RESEARCH TO WHY THE ROTOR/CALIBER WENT BAD IN SUCH A SHORT SPAN. EXPLAINING! EVEN IF I AM TO BE BLAMED, FOR THE INCIDENT. WHAT ABOUT THE PRODUCT? I ONLY OWNED THE VEHICLE FOR THREE MONTHS. WITHIN A LITTLE OVER 3,000 MILES. PLEASE HELP

Sep 22, 2020

Crash: 1

Injuries: 1

SUDDEN BRAKING CAUSED BY AUTOMATIC BRAKING SYSTEM. ON SEPT 1, 2020, I WAS DRIVING DOWN A NEIGHBORHOOD STREET, GOING ABOUT 30 MPH, AND A CAR IN FRONT OF ME WAS TURNING. I WAS IN NO DANGER OF HITTING THE CAR IN FRONT OF ME; HOWEVER, MY 2020 MAZDA CX-5 SUDDENLY BRAKED AND MADE A LOUD NOISE. GRANTED, THIS CAR WAS NEW TO ME AND I HADN'T EXPERIENCED THIS BEFORE, BUT I WAS COMPLETELY SURPRISED GIVEN AN ACCIDENT WAS NOT IMMINENT. THIS SUDDEN BRAKING CAUSED MY HEAD TO SWING FORWARD AND BACK RESULTING IN NECK, SHOULDER, AND BACK PAIN. ALSO, IT RESULTED IN AN INCREASED HEADACHE. UPON RETURNING HOME, I TURNED THE SUDDEN BRAKING SAFETY FEATURE OFF. ON SEPT 4, 2020, I HAD A VIDEO CALL WITH MY PCP WHO ADVISED ME TO GO TO THE URGENT CARE. THE URGENT CARE DOCTOR PRESCRIBED MUSCLE RELAXERS AND, BASED ON A PREVIOUS NECK CONDITION, ORDERED A MRI AND FOLLOW-UP WITH NEUROSURGEON. THE EXTENT OF THE INJURY IS UNKNOWN AT THIS TIME BUT THE URGENT CARE DOCTOR ENCOURAGED ME TO FILE A SAFETY REPORT.

Sep 05, 2020

Injuries: 1

+ 1 more complaint for this component

POWER TRAIN

5 complaints

Vehicle suffering from Mazda TSB 05-005/23 Chirping noise from Transaxle on 3rd to 4th gear upshift. Vehicle diagnosed by dealership as needing new Transaxle on 17OCT25. Diagnosis stated issue started ~32k miles.

Nov 04, 2025

The issue is iron is depositing in the transmission due to a bad torque converter, this is a known issue with mazda and it doesn't seem to be something they are willing to cover and many people are experiencing this especially with the cx5 models. It causes jerking and chirping noise, plus will eventually ruin the transmission and will cause serious safety issues. Just look into the reddit threads

Oct 01, 2025

Driving about 20 to 35 mph accelerating I would get a distinctive one time chirp noise with a little bit of a stutter It happens every time I go about that speed accelerating. Thankfully my car was under pre-owned warranty but I have to get now. Three transmission flushes I have to pay $400 for and they have to replace a torque converter. I just got the car 10 days ago and only has 61,000 mi on it. Over the long term this could damage the transmission cause more and more issues

Sep 30, 2025

The contact owns a 2020 Mazda CX-5. The contact stated that the vehicle jerked abnormally while depressing the accelerator pedal. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a dealer where the vehicle was diagnosed with transmission failure. The manufacturer was notified by the dealer about the failure, and the manufacturer agreed to partially cover the cost of the repair. The vehicle was not repaired and remained with the dealer. The failure mileage was approximately 52,000.

Jul 21, 2025

Defective transmission causes metal fragments to break off and over time damage transmission

Jun 13, 2024

STRUCTURE

5 complaints

SUNROOF EXPLODING - 2020 Cx5 I've seen other reports on mazda forums happending on cx the sunroofs RANDOM normal temp in chicago IL on Halloween night

Nov 01, 2025

When driving at highway speeds, when there are strong crosswinds, as there are prone to be in my area, depending on which way the wind is coming from both doors will make a screeching/howling noise. This noise is very loud and extremely distracting. When it first happens it is very jarring, and depending on the wind conditions can go on for miles, making it very hard to hear anything else. I have taken the car to two dealers who refuse to fix it because they state they cannot reproduce it but it is not something that can be reproduced without specific conditions, but they are aware it exists as they have a TSB indicating how to fix it.

Jul 21, 2023

High pitch noise coming from upper side of vehicle while driving on a freeway with strong side winds (35-40mph wind gusts).

Feb 22, 2022

THE RED PAINT IS CHIPPING PRETTY BAD. THIS CAR IS ONLY ABOUT 1 YEAR OLD. THE CHIPPING IS MOSTLY ON THE HOOD OF THE CAR.

May 02, 2021

THE AUTO LIFT GATE OPENS ON ITS OWN. WE JUST BOUGHT THIS IN JULY AND HAVE FOUND IT OPENED ON AT LEAST 4 OCCASIONS. ONCE OUTSIDE AND THE OTHER TIMES IN THE GARAGE. IT OPENED IN THE GARAGE AND DID NOT REALIZE IT WHEN I PUSHED THE GARAGE DOOR OPENER. IT WAS ABUTTED AGAINST THE DOOR AND CAUSED DAMAGE TO THE LIFT GATE. IT IS NOT THE FOB, BECAUSE WE TRIED IT INSIDE WITH THE DOOR SHUT AND THE LIFT GATE DOES NOT OPEN.

Oct 28, 2020

FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE

4 complaints

My car has started braking when objects arnt there almost causing a crash Mazda denies this

May 20, 2025

Emergency braking brought car to a complete stop while traveling around at approx. 35 MPH with no car or anything else in front of the car on a wide and clear town street. Car would then not go into park and only after a couple of mins did it go into park and car was able to be driven.

Feb 22, 2024

Automatic Emergency Braking (Mazda's Smart City Braking Feature) will randomly trigger even when there is no vehicle/person/object/obstruction present in the road infront of you. It has occurred going over railroad tracks and made by car go from 30 mph to 0 in a second. It has occurred switching lanes into an empty lane and triggered it. It has also picked up the center medians as an object it should hit the emergency brake for. This is insanely problematic when a vehicle is following behind you and this system is essentially brake checking them out of nowhere. In the past, dealers have said to just turn the sensitivity down. This does not fix it. In addition, I have gotten "BRAKE" warnings from the car on the highway (does not engage because I am at a speed faster than the emergency braking allows) but this is quite unnerving when you are on an open highway going 75 mph and your car is wanting you to brake.

Sep 13, 2023

I was traveling behind a propane truck, that was going to make a right turn. I disengaged the adaptive cruise control by tapping on the break. I began coasting to a stop, suddenly the car began accelerating again with no warning. I was forced to make the turn with the propane truck and side swiped the truck in the process.

May 18, 2023

Crash: 1

AIR BAGS

3 complaints

While traveling on an Interstate highway, my passenger side curtain airbag suddenly deployed without any warning while I was driving. There was no collision or impact, there was no debris on the road, or any significant bumps in the road. There was a very loud explosive sound and then my entire passenger side was covered in blue. The sound was so loud that it left my ears ringing and left me badly shaken up. I lost all visibility out of my passenger side as all of my side windows and mirrors were obscured, and I knew there was traffic in that lane along side of me. It felt very dangerous and I had to rely on my lane change sensors to safely pull to the side to assess any damage. There was no evident sign of any impact to my car. All of the glass was intact, there were no scratches, dents or missing paint. The airbag fully deployed for no apparent reason and I was extremely lucky that I was not injured and that my reaction did not cause an accident when this happened. The car was taken to a Mazda dealership to assess, and they did not find any damage either, but said there was no mechanical error on the part of the car, so it is still unexplained. I had it evaluated by an autobody/collision shop, again no damage was determined, their scan showed a diagnostic code that there was a "circuit short to ground".

Aug 22, 2025

-Passenger side air bags deployed for no reason on May 19, 2025 at 1945h. -Driver safety compromised due to shock, momentary loss of hearing, disorientation while driving. -Other drivers safety compromised due to driver having to react, re-orient themselves and drive to safety. -Culver City Mazda dealership ran diagnostic. Conclusion: air bags deployed due to pressure. NO OTHER conclusions regarding system error, software error, ignitor, sensors or vehicle impact. -Police inspected vehicle at time of incident. No damage was observed or reported. -NO warning lamps or messages appeared prior to passenger air bag deployment.

May 20, 2025

Airbags did not deploy when I crashed into a guard rail dragging for 40-50 feet.

Oct 13, 2022

Crash: 1

Injuries: 1

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER

3 complaints

The infotainment screen in the vehicle suffers from Phantom/Ghost touching, rending a safety hazard as while following navigation it can act on it's own, becoming a large distraction.

Aug 01, 2025

My infotainment display has a prevalent ghost touch issue that causes majors distractions while I'm driving, and no warnings on when it'll happen. The ghost touch will end my navigation, end my calls or put them on hold, call random people in my contacts, turns on/off the music, changes the volume, changes various settings (sometimes safety settings), switching back/forth to different things, etc. It used to only happen when the car was not moving or I'm parked (as the touchscreen is only supposed to be available then), but now it's happening even when I'm driving on the freeway. I used to try correcting/fixing whatever by using the knob control, but the problem can become so severe that even when I use the physical knob I can't gain control over it. I can't turn off the infotainment display because the ghost touch just turns it back on! I brought it into my local Mazda dealership for regular servicing and decided to ask about it, but they're quoting me over $800 to fix it. They said it's a common issue they get all the time and it's something to do with a faulty screen?? Not too sure what exactly, but a friend of mine said he had the same issue and the issue was too sporadic he decided to disconnect the touch screen altogether. It's too much of a distraction to deal with while driving, even for quick trips to the store, etc. It causes cognitive, visual, and manual distractions...these faulty screens are putting us all at a higher risk of being involved in an accident by taking our attention away from driving, even for just a split second.

Jan 28, 2025

The infotainment system has a known "ghost touch" issue. This issue caused a recall in prior models but that recall was not extended to current models. This is an extremely dangerous issue. The screen will turn on loud blasting music, randomly call people, turn off GPS, etc. at any given time. This has happened while I am driving at high speeds on the highway and has nearly gotten me into accidents. This is very concerning. I have reached out to Mazda and they acknowledge it is a known issue but claim it is not a safety issue. I have read multiple forums about this issue and the dangers it poses as it is well documented that distracted driving is incredibly dangerous. This has put multiple people at risk. Imagine accidentally calling your boss when you are driving, realizing the car is doing that when you are driving on an unknown route at high speeds. It is incredibly distracting and dangerous in the moment. Likewise, I have been on a call and the call is repeatedly put on hold or the screen has changed and it is incredibly distracting. Mazda claims this is not a safety issue however, the research is clear that distracted driving is a danger to the driver, passengers, and others on the road. Please conduct an inquiry into this issue. I am happy to provide my car for inspection or to share further information. The issue has been diagnosed and it is known, however the company refuses to issue a recall or pay for repairs.

Jun 10, 2024

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING

2 complaints

My car is experiencing extreme ghost screen. Also when this happens I get a lot of warning lights when nothing is truly experiencing fault. My screen will jump, change settings, reset settings,become dark on it own, not turn on at all, flip through the system causing major distractions. For instance I was driving in my car with quiet no noise then my screen jump and without warning blasted am and scared the living heck out of me while on the highway. It has called people and hung up on its own. Lights flicker and one side of my top lights don't work. My plugin have no electricity coming to them.There are times I have trouble connecting to Bluetooth.

Jun 20, 2025

DASHBOARD LIGHTS HAVE GONE OFF THEN BACK ON WHILE DRIVING ON THE HIGHWAY & LOCAL ROADS SEVERAL TIMES. ALSO CONCERNED AS TO WHAT ELSE THIS ISSUE AFFECTS & NOT SURE IF DAYLIGHT RUNNING LIGHTS ARE ON OR OFF AT THIS TIME OR OTHER ELECTRICAL ELEMENTS. NOT SURE THE CAUSE OF THIS POSSIBLE SHORT IN THE SYSTEM IN ADDITION TO A BATTERY REPLACEMENT (ORIG. BATTERY & THEN 2 OTHERS SINCE 7/4/20)

Nov 04, 2020

UNKNOWN OR OTHER,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE

2 complaints

Forward Smart city brake support malfunction Camera Sensors Screen Ghost

Jun 05, 2025

During snowfall, the front camera becomes obstructed, leading to a malfunction in the smart brake system. When this occurs, an alert appears indicating a “Smart Brake Failure,” accompanied by an audible warning and the illumination of the check engine light. The vehicle then exhibits unpredictable behavior, including unintended braking and sudden acceleration, creating a hazardous driving situation. The only temporary resolution is to restart the vehicle; however, the check engine light remains on for several days before eventually turning off. This issue occurred while I was driving on the highway on February 19, 2025, posing a significant safety risk. This is not the first time the car has done this.

Feb 19, 2025

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

2 complaints

I was in the drive thru at a restaurant and had my foot on the brake. After a couple of minutes of sitting with my foot on the brake, I gently pressed the accelerator to slowly move forward. All of a sudden the car sped up on its own like I had floored it. The speed of acceleration threw my head back and the car whipped around the front of the building as that's where I was steering. I braked and it thankfully stopped, but if a car had been in front of me I would have slammed into it. I could have hit a pedestrian. This was very scary and its an obvious safety concern. Mazda needs to look into this issue as I see there are other reports on this website and on the internet by numerous people for the same issue of sudden acceleration by the vehicle on its own.

Nov 04, 2024

DUE TO THE STEERING WHEEL CONTROLS NOT BEING ILLUMINATED I ACCIDENTALLY INCREASED THE SPEED RATHER THAN DECREASING WHILE DRIVING AT NIGHT.

Aug 28, 2020

VISIBILITY/WIPER

2 complaints

The rear windshield wiper stops working while driving in a rainstorm. This has happened twice. The wiper works for 30-60 minutes and then stops. Was inoperable for the remaining 4 hours of the trip. When we took the car in for troubleshooting the 1st time, they could not reproduce the problem. After the second time the dealer was able to reproduce the problem. It appears to be related to the operating time and not the rain. Searching online discovered numerous Mazda CX5 owners reported the same issue. Our safety was at risk since we could not see out the rear windshield. The vehicle has not been inspected by the manufacturer. There were no warning lamps, messages, or other symptoms that warned us the wiper had stopped working. We noticed it had stopped by looking out the rear view mirror.

Sep 11, 2024

WINDSHIELD GLASS SPONTANEOUSLY CRACKED FROM BOTTOM WHERE DEFROSTING VENT IS LOCATED, ARCING UPWARD ACROSS DRIIVERS FIELD OF VIEW OCCUPYING 3/4 OF WINDSHIELD HEIGHT- DRIVEN TO WORK WITH NO PROBLEM AND CRACK WAS PRESENT AT END OF WORK SHIFT NO IMPACTS OCCURED NO OTHER DAMAGE -PARKED IN MONITORED HOSPITAL PARKING GARAGE

Jan 02, 2021

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

1 complaint

The contact owns a 2020 Mazda CX-5. The contact stated that while the cruise control was activated and driving 65 MPH in the middle lane of a busy six-lane highway, the contact depressed the accelerator pedal, and the vehicle was suddenly stalled and coasted to a complete stop in the middle of the highway. The contact was able to restart the vehicle to continue driving. The vehicle was later taken to the local dealer, who was unable to determine the cause of the failure and was unable to confirm that the failure had occurred. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 32,000.

Sep 25, 2025

LANE DEPARTURE,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE

1 complaint

While driving my vehicle the systems sensors are affected by nearby drivers which cause the car to stall in the middle of traffic going between 40 and 75 miles per hour.

Aug 27, 2025

BACK OVER PREVENTION

1 complaint

The vehicle reboots the screen/infotainment system while driving. The dealership has updated the software and replaced the screen (Screen was at my cost). They reset the codes and it comes back. This is a safety hazard as it could cause non compliance with the FMVSS in regards to rear-view cameras being required. There is currently a settlement in place under a class action.

Jun 25, 2025

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

1 complaint

Car “died” while idling at a traffic light. It started but would not start several hours later and car was towed to mechanic. Diagnostics “determined “after several days that car needed an ECM. ECM was ordered and replaced, along with the battery. This took several weeks, in the meantime, I had to rent a vehicle. Vehicle picked up on May 29th and driven 250 miles and car sputtered, hesitated, slowing down in heavy traffic at high speeds on highway, putting other drivers and myself in a very unsafe situation. Several days later this happened again while traveling back home, again, at highway speed putting other drivers and myself in high risk situation. (This happened several times during both trips.) As I was focused on the road, I did not see if any messages were displayed. After returning home, the mechanic was informed via voice mail and again via telephone. The following morning (June 2), the car sputtered, hesitated to accelerate at low speeds and died while driving to repair shop (battery indicator illuminated as I was pulling over). Car has been towed again to repair shop.

Jun 03, 2025

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EQUIPMENT

1 complaint

The contact owns a 2020 Mazda CX-5. The contact stated the infotainment Connect Center was unintendedly switching to different functions, with the volume increasing independently. There were no warning lights illuminated. The local dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was contacted and referred the contact to the dealer for assistance. The failure mileage was unknown.

Apr 04, 2025

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SERVICE BRAKES

1 complaint

I bought this 2020 Mazda CX-5 Sport 2.5L all wheel drive from a big dealership on July 31, 2023. I started having issues with EPB (electronic parking brakes) in February 2024. When I put the e-brakes on, the yellow parking brake light and the red brake light would come on. Seems like they would engage and disengage just fine except those 2 lights would stay on no matter how many times I tried turning the e-brakes off. I put a new battery in because of some research I did to no avail. Tried putting it in service mode then taking it off service mode......which did work for a couple of months. Then the problem reappeared and the two lights came back on. Sometimes you hear the e-brakes retracting on the rear right side only. And you can smell the brakes from heating up. On 2/26/2025 after getting out of work, I got in my car, turned it on and boom the brake lights are on again. I tried to drive and noticed the e-brakes were engaged. I didn't do it because I don't use the e-brakes at all for fear it would get stuck on and leave me stranded. I have been dealing with this for months and I am so frustrated. This car is only 5 years old. It shouldn't be having e-brakes issues. I've been doing a lot of research and found out that a lot of Mazda owners are having this very same problem. Mazda is very aware of this issue and has known about it for some time, but refuses to do a recall. I’m afraid to drive the car for fear that the e-brakes would engage while I'm driving in the highway and cause me to have an accident. This is a safety issue that needs to be addressed. I don't know what else to do. One thing I do know...... if Mazda doesn't fix this issue, I will never buy a Mazda again and make sure my kids never buy a Mazda either.

Feb 27, 2025

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE

1 complaint

Forward Braking Safety Sensor Was on transmission after braking check engine light . Was driving car from work it lost all power . And those warning ️ light indicators where on . Car wouldn't go over 15mph . Took vehicle to mazda and dropped it off as my husband requested information do so . Mazda called say diagnostic saying it needed plugs ,coil packs serpentine belt and adjuster pulleys replacement. I called my husband he's a mechanical engineer he said no way it needs a tune up that early. He requested information go get the car as he flew home from working outta town. We took it to scooter's place certified mechanic in Indian Head md . Scooter's place diagnostic scan said completely the opposite. Say it was the cars brain aka cpu send false signals causing misfire to all components of vehicle . He change one spark plug and car ran normal. He told us it wasn't a fix it was cpu and no matter tune up or not . The computer was the issue. I went back to passport mazda in Suitland Maryland to give them second opinion issues the GM wouldn't give my money back for false diagnostic readings and refused to listen or hear what I had to say I was to upset to continue and decided to leave . He kept saying he wasn't a technician so he doesn't know but was explaining technician issues that were incorrect i have both diagnostic detail paperwork which i will attach with report

Feb 13, 2025

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,LANE DEPARTURE

1 complaint

"ghost touch" issue on my cars touch screen operates by itself or doesn't respond. I was driving down a dark road when it went black, the screen had adjusted its brightness down to zero! The radio will change stations then freeze and the manual controls won't even work.

Nov 19, 2024

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VISIBILITY/WIPER,BACK OVER PREVENTION

1 complaint

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.

Oct 20, 2024

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,SERVICE BRAKES

1 complaint

The vehicle accelerated on its own, while I was parking. My foot was on the brake when the vehicle just took off. It continued to accelerate until a building stopped it. I continued to brake but the vehicle did not stop. Once the vehicle collided with building, saw on the digital read out the "Brake System Malfunction" and then Camera Malfunction. The vehicle was towed from the site and the insurance adjuster has sent me word that the vehicle is a total loss.

Sep 24, 2024

Crash: 1

Injuries: 1

SEATS

1 complaint

The front seats, both electric and manual powered are rocking back and forth. Upon acceleration both seats will slightly rock backwards and then upon applying the brakes they will rock forward. It's almost like whatever is holding the seats still has a defected part or a defect somewhere else. This concerns me as a safety issue, if something were to happen and if I got into an accident, aren't the seats supposed to be secured and not have any slack or rocking in them? This has happened before on my driver side seat when I had a mazda service technician look at it he confirmed it needed to be repaired. For a whole replacement seat was estimated around $4,000.00. I was fortunate at the time to where my bumper to bumper warranty helped cover some of the cost, Mazda agreed to pay for the "parts" to fix the issue and I paid for the labor, only because I was slightly over the 36,000 mile warranty that comes with Mazda. Since the repair I was told it wasnt going to be 100% and I would still have some rocking but it wasnt as bad, that occurred around the year 2022. Now, when I have a passenger the same thing occurs. Unfortunately, I'm no longer in my bumper to bumper warranty and quite frankly this seems like a safety risk that Mazda is aware of.

Aug 27, 2024

POWER TRAIN,ENGINE

1 complaint

Low oil level indicator came on at roughly 55,000 miles only about 3000 miles after last oil change. Car was immediately stopped and towed to the nearest Mazda dealer. Dealership confirmed oil level was low. Car appears to me consuming excess oil. Oil consumption test pending.

Feb 27, 2024

SERVICE BRAKES,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE

1 complaint

While driving forward in a straight line during broad daylight at approximately 40mph, the car in front of me slowed and turned right onto a side street. I applied brakes to slow myself (to ~25mph I estimate) until the car in front of me was fully out of my lane. Once the car in front of me was out of my lane, I released the brake in order to accelerate back up to the speed limit, but before I could press the gas pedal the car suddenly slammed on the brakes, beeped warning beeps, and displayed BRAKE on the dash. It did this for less than a second before deactivating. It did not fully stop the car. It just caused a sudden, severe braking event and then the car returned to normal operations. This exact road scenario (car in front turning right onto a side street while traveling at city speeds of ~30-40 mph during daylight) has caused the sudden temporary automatic braking twice, and two other times in this same scenario the BRAKE warning displayed and sounds activated but without automatic braking. These four events occurred within the less than one year that I have owned the car. One of the automatic braking incidents happened in cold temperatures on snowy/icy road conditions. The other occurred in traffic with vehicles following behind my car close enough to risk a rear-end collision. I have reached out to a dealership to request the safety sensors be inspected, but I have seen on internet communities [XXX] and [XXX] ) that many people have encountered this exact behavior (sudden unexpected braking) in the exact same scenarios (car ahead turning right). INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Nov 10, 2023

STRUCTURE,BACK OVER PREVENTION

1 complaint

The rear camera and warning system has failed numerous times. On one occasion I hit a vehicle because of the failure. Also, the windshield has a leak that sometimes is like a waterfall causing serious visibility problems.

Jul 11, 2023

Crash: 1

UNKNOWN OR OTHER,LANE DEPARTURE

1 complaint

The infotainment system experiences a "ghost touch" at random times. Usually it is when it is warm out or in direct sunlight. This has caused some of the safety features of the car to be randomly turned off. The system becomes unresponsive to manual controls while the ghost touch is occurring. This is frequent and dangerous. It is shut off lane control warnings, lighting, dimmed the entire system, etc. This has been a known issue on past models and the dealer is telling me they are aware of this but it is not covered under the warranty on my model. The first time this occurred was around 35,000 miles but I didn't realize what was happening. When I asked the dealer about it, they couldn't repeat it and ignored my concerns. It didn't start regularlly occurring until after my 36,000 mile warranty was up.

Apr 12, 2023

SERVICE BRAKES, AIR

1 complaint

2020 MAZDA CX-5. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARD TO THE EMERGENCY BRAKING FEATURE ON VEHICLE.

Dec 02, 2022

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE

1 complaint

1st issue - System monitor restarts without warning. Just driving along with only one iPhone plugged in the monitor shows a spinning "wheel" saying restarting while driving, 2nd issue - with two iPhones plugged in it starts having more issues. Stops charging second iPhone connects then reconnects constantly. Then stops (see picture) 3rd issue - With only one iPhone plugged in and running navigation from iPhone, the system disconnects from iPhone but no voice unless we disconnect, 4th issue - While driving in adaptive cruise control and braking for people stopping the cruise control will not re-start. It shows on- keep pressing resume - but will not engage (above 40 mph) then after a few minutes it does respond to the resume command

Oct 21, 2021

LANE DEPARTURE,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

1 complaint

The contact owns a 2020 Mazda CX-5. The contact noticed that while driving at approximately 70 MPH, the passenger blind spot monitoring light and sound failed to operate. The contact mentioned that the vehicle failed to let her know when a vehicle was nearby her. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where they reset the monitor however, the failure recurred days later. The contact mentioned that the failure recurred several times. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 10,000.

Sep 24, 2021

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,SERVICE BRAKES

1 complaint

I WAS PARKED AT A FAST FOOD RESTAURANT THAT HAD AN OUTDOOR KIOSK FOR PAYMENT. I GOT OUT OF MY CAR TO PAY AND GOT BACK IN. AFTER ABOUT A MINUTE OR TWO MY CAR ACCELERATED FORWARD, GOING OVER A SLOPED CURB AND DOWN A SHORT LOW GRADE HILL, HITTING A POLE. I WAS CONFUSED TO HOW THE CAR WOULD GO FORWARD BECAUSE I WAS IN PARK THE WHOLE TIME.

Apr 01, 2021

Crash: 1

AIR BAGS,WHEELS

1 complaint

VEHICLE WAS ON A CITY STREET TRAVELING AT 35-40 MPH WHEN THE FRONT LEFT WHEEL (YOKOHAMA GEOLANDAR G91) SPONTANEOUSLY BLEW OUT DESPITE NOT COLLIDING WITH ANY OBJECTS OR ROAD HAZARDS. AS A RESULT, DRIVER SIDE CURTAIN AND SEAT AIRBAGS ERRONEOUSLY DEPLOYED AND THE VEHICLE IMMEDIATELY SHUTOFF, CAUSING DISORIENTATION AND TEMPORARY LOSS OF HEARING IN ONE EAR.

Mar 16, 2021

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,ENGINE

1 complaint

I HAVE BEEN WARNED BY OTHER DRIVERS AT NIGHT THAT MY TAIL LIGHTS WERE OUT. MY CLOCK AND RADIO BOTH ARE MALFUNCTIONING. I JUST TOOK THE CAR FOR THE YEARLY INSPECTION AND THERE IS A MAJOR OIL LEAK FROM A GASKET. THE CAR ONLY HAS 16,000 MILES ON IT!

Mar 07, 2021

UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE

1 complaint

MASSIVE OIL LEAK NEAR THE ENGINE AND THE CYLINDER HEAD NEEDS TO BE REPLACED BECAUSE IT IS DEFECTIVE. THIS IS A 2020 VEHICLE. THE GASKET KIT AND THE ENGINE ARE ON BACKORDER SO MY CAR IS AT THE SHOP FOR AN UNDETERMINED AMOUNT OF TIME ON THE ORDER OF POTENTIALLY SEVERAL MONTHS!

Feb 25, 2021

FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

1 complaint

MPG IS NOT AS HIGH AS LISTED. WITH ONE PASSENGER, NO CARGO AVG CITY MPG 22. AVG HWY 26 COMBINED 24. 7 MONTHS OWNING CAR. TIRES INFLATED TO PROPER SETTING. MAINTAINED DONE AT REGULAR SCHEDULED INTERVALS.

Dec 30, 2020

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

1 complaint

MY 2020 MAZDA CX-5 WAS 2 DAYS OLD AND THE BATTERY WAS COMPLETELY DRAINED AND HAD TO BE TOWED TO THE DEALER. I PICKED IT UP AND THEY DID NOTHING TO THE BATTERY. THEY TOLD ME NOTHING WAS WRONG AND THEY REPLACED THE KEY FOB BATTERY. TWO MORE DAYS AFTER THAT I PARKED IT IN MY GARAGE AND PUSHED THE BUTTON TO TURN IT OFF. APPARENTLY IT DID NOT TURN OFF AND COME MORNING, I HAD SIGNIFICANT CARBON MONOXIDE POISONING AND WAS HOSPITALIZED FOR 4 NIGHTS. MY CAR WOULD NOT START AGAIN AND THE ODD THING WAS THAT THE BATTERY WAS DRAINED AGAIN AND THERE WAS STILL GAS IN IT. MY LOCAL MAZDA DEALER REFUSES TO HELP ME AND I AM TRYING TO CONTACT MAZDA'S MAIN NUMBER.

Nov 09, 2020

Injuries: 1

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,SERVICE BRAKES

1 complaint

PURCHASED BRAND NEW 2020 MAZDA CX-5 ON SEPT 25, 2020. ON SEPT. 29, 2020 WITH < 500MI: WHILE TRAVELING APPROXIMATELY 45 MPH ON COUNTY ROAD, PRESSED BRAKE PEDAL AND THE PEDAL DID NOT MOVE. SEVERAL MALFUNCTION LIGHTS FLASHED INCLUDING "POWER STEERING MALFUNCTION", "SMART CITY BRAKE SUPPORT MALFUNCTION". REPEATEDLY SLAMMED ON THE BRAKE PEDAL AND IT DID NOT MOVE AT ALL. TRIED TO SWERVE TO AVOID A VEHICLE BUT THE STEERING WAS UNRESPONSIVE. IMPACTED A VEHICLE AT A RED LIGHT. MAZDA SERVICE SAID THAT THERE WAS NO INDICATION THAT THE BRAKE WAS ENGAGED BEFORE THE IMPACT EXCEPT FOR A "HARD BRAKE EVENT" WHICH BASED ON THE CDR DATA WAS PROBABLY THE IMPACT AVOIDANCE SYSTEM BRAKING THE VEHICLE. AS AN ENGINEER FAMILIAR WITH THIS TYPE OF SYSTEM BUT NOT THIS PARTICULAR SYSTEM SPECIFICALLY, I SUSPECTED A LOW VOLTAGE EVENT THAT KNOCKED OUT THE BRAKE BOOSTER AND POWER STEERING. VEHICLE WAS RETURNED FROM THE REPAIR SHOP TODAY OCT 28, 2020. HEADLIGHTS BEGAN TO FLICKER, AGAIN AN INDICATION OF LOW VOLTAGE OR FAULTY WIRING. I HAVE TAKEN VIDEO OF THE FLICKERING, I HAVE OBTAINED THE CDR REPORT MAZDA REFUSED TO PROVIDE ALTHOUGH I REQUESTED TO SEE IT, AND THE SERVICE REPORT INDICATING MASS AIRFLOW & VACUUM CODES, BOTH CAUSED BY LOW VOLTAGE EVENT.

Oct 28, 2020

Crash: 1

WHEELS

1 complaint

AFTER PICKING-UP A BRAND NEW CAR FROM MAZDA DEALERSHIP, I WAS RETURNING HOME USING A 3-LANE I-75 HIGHWAY, AS ALWAYS EXTREMELY BUSY. TO STAY IN THIS TRAFFIC I WAS FORCED TO DRIVE AT 70 MPH, WHICH IS THE LOCAL SPEED LIMIT. IT TURNS OUT THAT FROM THE SPEED OF 60 MPH UP, THE CAR DIDN'T WANT TO DRIVE IN A STRAIGHT LINE ON ITS OWN AND REQUIRED CONTINUOUS STEERING WHEEL CORRECTIONS. THIS CREATED A HAZARDOUS DRIVING CONDITION CONSIDERING THE FACT THAT THE ADJACENT LANES WERE PACKED-UP WITH THE OTHER VEHICLES. UPON ARRIVAL I EXAMINED THE TIRES INSTALLED ON THE CAR AND FOUND THEM TO BE M+S TOYO A36 - THE TYPE USED FOR MUD AND SNOW CONDITIONS, TYPICALLY IN COLD CLIMATES. THE IRONY IS I LIVE IN SOUTH-CENTRAL FLORIDA, THE DEALERSHIP IS ALSO IN SOUTH-CENTRAL FLORIDA, AND THE NEW MAZDA CARS WERE SHIPPED FROM THE PRODUCER TO JACKSONVILLE PORT IN FLORIDA FOR THE LOCAL MARKETS. THUS, WHILE PERFECTLY ACCEPTABLE IN MONTANA OR MICHIGAN, THIS TYPE OF M+S TIRE IS JUST DANGEROUS WHEN USED ON HOT, SOUTH-CENTRAL FL INTERSTATE HIGHWAYS. I CONTACTED THE MAZDA NORTH AMERICAN OPERATIONS (MNAO) ASKING FOR REPLACING THE TYPE OF TIRES ON MY CAR AND POINTING TO THE FACT THAT MAZDA JAPAN SPECIFIES DIFFERENT, SAFER TYPE (THREAD AND COMPOUND) OF TIRES FOR THEIR OWN MARKETS. THE MNAO ANSWER WAS IN ESSENCE: "ONE SIZE FITS ALL'. ATTACHED BELOW IS THE TRANSCRIPT OF MY CHAT WITH MNAO, MAZDA-JAPAN SPECIFICATION OF TOYO PROXES TIRES, AS WELL AS A SAMPLE OF CUSTOMER REVIEWS OF THE TIRES MNAO INSTALLS ON MAZDA CX-5 TODAY ACROSS THE USA.

Feb 18, 2020

2020 MAZDA CX-5 Problems & Complaints

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