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2015 Mazda CX-5

The 2015 Mazda CX-5 is a compact SUV praised for its sporty handling, fuel efficiency, and stylish design. Two engine options were available: a 2.0-liter four-cylinder producing 155 horsepower and 150 lb-ft of torque, and a more powerful 2.5-liter four-cylinder generating 184 horsepower and 185 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were typically paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, although the 2.0L could also be had with a six-speed manual in the base trim. Owners often appreciate the CX-5’s responsive steering, comfortable interior, and overall value. Common complaints often center on the base 2.0L engine lacking sufficient power, road noise, and the infotainment system’s complexity.

Engine

2.0L Inline-4

  • Excessive Oil Consumption
    • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported excessive oil consumption, requiring frequent top-offs between oil changes. Blue smoke from the exhaust may also be present.
    • Solution: Initially, monitoring oil levels closely and using a higher viscosity oil may mitigate the issue. In more severe cases, piston ring replacement may be necessary.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
    • Recalls: None Found

2.5L Inline-4

  • Purge Valve Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The purge valve in the evaporative emissions system can fail, leading to a check engine light and potential difficulty starting the engine.
    • Solution: Replace the purge valve.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic (Both Engine Options)

  • Harsh Shifting/Hesitation
    • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported harsh or jerky shifting, particularly between lower gears. Hesitation during acceleration can also occur.
    • Solution: A software update to the transmission control module (TCM) may resolve the issue. In some cases, valve body replacement or a full transmission rebuild may be necessary.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (Software Update) - $3,000+ (Transmission Rebuild)
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

  • Premature Wear of Rear Shocks
    • Description/Symptoms: Rear shocks may wear out prematurely, leading to a bouncy ride and reduced handling performance.
    • Solution: Replace the rear shocks.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
    • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

  • Infotainment System Freezing/Crashing
    • Description/Symptoms: The Mazda Connect infotainment system can experience freezing, crashing, and slow response times.
    • Solution: Software updates from Mazda may improve performance. In some cases, replacement of the head unit may be necessary.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (Software Update) - $500+ (Head Unit Replacement)
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Battery Drain
    • Description/Symptoms: The battery drains overnight or within a short amount of time, resulting in the vehicle not starting.
    • Solution: Check for parasitic draws by testing voltage drops on each fuse in the vehicle.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
    • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

  • No Issues Found

Interior

  • Sun Visor Sagging
    • Description/Symptoms: The sun visors may sag or droop, obstructing the driver’s view.
    • Solution: Replace the sun visors.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
    • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2015 Mazda CX-5 is a generally reliable vehicle, but potential buyers should be aware of some common issues. The 2.0L engine can experience excessive oil consumption, which can be costly to fix. Transmission issues, electrical glitches with the infotainment system, and premature rear shock wear are also areas to inspect. The severity and cost of these issues vary, but addressing them can help ensure a positive ownership experience.

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