2013 Mazda CX-5

The 2013 Mazda CX-5 marked the introduction of Mazda’s Skyactiv technology, emphasizing fuel efficiency and driving dynamics. Two engine options were available: a 2.0L Skyactiv-G inline-4 producing 155 horsepower and 150 lb-ft of torque, and later in the model year, a more powerful 2.5L Skyactiv-G inline-4 with 184 horsepower and 185 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options included a 6-speed manual (only with the 2.0L) and a 6-speed automatic. Owners generally praise the CX-5 for its sporty handling, fuel economy, and attractive styling. Common complaints often center around the base 2.0L engine lacking sufficient power, the infotainment system being dated, and some reported issues with reliability as the vehicles age.

Engine

2.0L Skyactiv-G Inline-4

• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported excessive oil consumption, requiring frequent top-offs between oil changes. Symptoms include low oil level warnings, engine knocking, and blue smoke from the exhaust in severe cases.
  • Solution: Monitor oil levels regularly. In some cases, replacing the piston rings or complete engine replacement is necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $6,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Engine Misfires
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine misfires can occur due to faulty ignition coils, spark plugs, or fuel injectors. Symptoms include rough idling, poor acceleration, and the check engine light illuminating.
  • Solution: Diagnose the cause of the misfire and replace the affected component (ignition coil, spark plug, or fuel injector).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

2.5L Skyactiv-G Inline-4

• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported excessive oil consumption, requiring frequent top-offs between oil changes. Symptoms include low oil level warnings, engine knocking, and blue smoke from the exhaust in severe cases.
  • Solution: Monitor oil levels regularly. In some cases, replacing the piston rings or complete engine replacement is necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $6,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Engine Misfires
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine misfires can occur due to faulty ignition coils, spark plugs, or fuel injectors. Symptoms include rough idling, poor acceleration, and the check engine light illuminating.
  • Solution: Diagnose the cause of the misfire and replace the affected component (ignition coil, spark plug, or fuel injector).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners experience harsh or jerky shifting, particularly between lower gears.
  • Solution: A software update or transmission fluid change may help. In severe cases, valve body replacement or transmission rebuild may be needed.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Rear Shock Absorber Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Premature failure of the rear shock absorbers. Symptoms include a bouncy ride, excessive body roll, and clunking noises from the rear suspension.
  • Solution: Replace the rear shock absorbers.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Freezing/Crashing
  • Description/Symptoms: The infotainment system occasionally freezes, crashes, or becomes unresponsive.
  • Solution: A software update may resolve the issue. Replacing the infotainment unit may be necessary in some cases.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Premature battery drain, especially if the vehicle sits for extended periods.
  • Solution: Check for parasitic draws and replace the battery if necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• No Issues Found

Interior

• Sun Visor Sagging
  • Description/Symptoms: The sun visors tend to sag and not stay in the upright position.
  • Solution: Replacement of the sun visors.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rattling Noises
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattling noises emanating from the dashboard or door panels while driving.
  • Solution: This often requires identifying the source of the rattle and using foam padding or other materials to dampen the vibration.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary The 2013 Mazda CX-5, while praised for its driving dynamics and fuel efficiency, has some common issues to consider. Engine issues, particularly oil consumption, can be costly to repair. Electrical glitches with the infotainment system are also a notable concern. Suspension and interior issues are generally less severe but can still detract from the ownership experience. Overall, prospective buyers should be aware of these potential problems and thoroughly inspect any used CX-5 before purchase, paying close attention to engine oil levels and the functionality of the infotainment system. The severity of these issues is mid-range as the oil consumption is a major fix, but electrical and interior issues can be an annoyance. The costs to repair are wide ranging with a few low cost items to several high cost items.