2021 Mazda CX-5 engine problems

Filed Nov 4, 2026 · Electrical, Engine · PA

[FIELD: DESCRIBE WHAT HAPPENED] Severe ongoing safety defects uncorrected after 2 dealer repair attempts ([XXX] & [XXX]). LIGHTS: High beams failed [XXX], requiring continuous manual hold to function. ADAS/HUD: HUD failed to project Nov 3. Cameras cut out with false "sensor blocked" error (Oct [XXX] & [XXX]. Infotainment screen turns off while driving (multiple dates). ENGINE: Stalls in traffic/drive-thrus and fails to restart. MIRROR: Power side mirror glass/folding intermittently does not fold out and glass does not move/adjust. Dealership reportedly ordered part during Sept [XXX] repair window, has not been repaired yet with no update from dealership. [FIELD: HOW WAS SAFETY AFFECTED?] High-beam failure forces single-handed steering at night. Sudden ADAS/screen shutdowns cause driver distraction and lose safety monitoring. Engine stalling creates severe collision risks at intersections and on active roads.Mirror issue prevents ability to safely monitor changing road conditions/other drivers. [FIELD: WARNING LIGHTS AND MESSAGES] Cluster displayed "System Disabled: Poor Outward Camera Visibility" in clear weather with clean windshield (Oct [XXX] & [XXX]). No warnings for engine stalling, HUD loss, or headlight failure. [FIELD: REPRODUCTION & INSPECTIONS] Dealer failed to reproduce due to brief test drives. Inspected only by Jim Shorkey Kia and 1 independent mechanic (who diagnosed earlier resolved oil leak/solenoid timing belt issue). INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Filed Sep 24, 2026 · Engine · 124,000 miles · MI

The contact owns a 2021 Mazda CX-5. The contact stated that while driving 50 MPH and the check engine warning light illuminated. The contact took the vehicle to an independent mechanic where an OBDII scanner discovered a misfire in cylinder#1. The vehicle was then taken to another independent mechanic where the OBDII scanner discovered a misfire in one of the engine cylinders and diagnosed the vehicle with an engine failure. The contact was then referred to the dealer who confirmed that there was a defect with cylinder#1. The dealer confirmed that the engine needed to be replaced. The manufacturer was then notified of the failure, and the contact was informed that there were no recalls on the vehicle and that the warranty had expired. The vehicle was taken to another independent mechanic and remained with the independent mechanic. The failure mileage was approximately 124,000.

Filed Sep 23, 2026 · Engine, Suspension · NY

Differential went and generated a cascading chain reaction destroying the coupler and breather and axles. Car is undrivable. This. Defect has a TSB

Filed Sep 19, 2026 · Engine · CA

2021 Mazda CX-5 2.5L non-turbo. While driving at approximately 8 mph, I removed my foot from the accelerator, but the vehicle unexpectedly accelerated on its own. I did not press the accelerator pedal. I had to apply the brake to slow the vehicle down. This issue has occurred three separate times, on August 25, September 4, and September 18, 2026, at approximately 70,060 miles. The same unintended acceleration behavior occurred during all three incidents.

Filed Jul 27, 2026 · Engine · AZ

The vehicle developed an engine oil leak from the timing cover due to what appears to be premature seal failure. Engine oil was leaking externally and could drip onto hot engine components, creating a potential fire hazard while the vehicle is in operation. The leak also increases the risk of low engine oil levels, which could lead to engine damage or sudden engine failure if not detected in time. This issue required an expensive repair despite the vehicle being properly maintained. I have since learned that many other Mazda owners have reported similar timing cover oil leaks on this engine, suggesting this may be a widespread defect rather than normal wear and tear. I am submitting this complaint so the federal safety agency can evaluate whether this represents a safety-related defect that warrants further investigation.

Filed May 30, 2026 · Engine, Fuel system · WI

2021 Mazda CX‑5 (VIN: [XXX] ). First low‑oil warning at 17,800 miles. ([XXX]) Mazda dealership in La Crosse, WI performed an oil change and fully refilled the oil. Second low‑oil warning at 18,700 miles — only 900 miles later. ([XXX]) This indicates rapid, abnormal oil loss consistent with the known valve‑stem‑seal defect for this model year. Sudden low‑oil conditions pose a safety risk due to potential engine damage or failure. Requesting the federal safety agency document this issue. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Filed May 11, 2026 · Engine · WI

My 2021 Mazda CX‑5 is experiencing excessive oil consumption. The vehicle is burning oil between regular oil changes, and the oil level drops noticeably before the recommended service interval. I have noticed a burning smell and/or signs of oil loss without visible leaks. This raises concerns about potential engine damage, stalling, or fire risk while driving. The issue has occurred repeatedly and does not seem normal for a vehicle of this age and mileage. I am filing this complaint because this may indicate a defect affecting engine safety and reliability.

Filed Apr 3, 2026 · Engine · GA

Due to oil consumption issues & oil leak on 2021 Mazda cx 5 AWD I was told the timing cover and gasket needs replacement due to oil leakage. This appears to be a very common issue with this vehicle. The engine is at risk of catastrophic failure due to low oil levels

Filed Mar 27, 2026 · Driver assistance, Engine · 114,000 miles · TX

The contact owns a 2021 Mazda CX-5. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the Forward Collision Avoidance Automatic Emergency Brakes activated unintendedly, and the vehicle jerked to the left and independently accelerated and moved back in the lane intended lane. The vehicle then jerked to the right, unintendedly accelerated, and then went back into the intended lane. Then the vehicle resumed normal operation. While driving approximately 60-65 MPH a week later, the vehicle started jerking. The “Smart City Brake Malfunction” message was displayed, and the engine warning light was illuminated. The local dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 114,000.

Filed Mar 4, 2026 · Engine · 46,465 miles · NY

The contact owns a 2021 Mazda CX-5. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the low oil warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer however, the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The contact was advised by the dealer to continue adding oil to the engine as needed. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 46,465.