2017 Mazda CX-5

The 2017 Mazda CX-5 marked the beginning of the second generation for this popular compact SUV. It’s available with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 187 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. People generally appreciate the CX-5 for its stylish design, engaging driving dynamics, comfortable interior, and fuel efficiency. Common dislikes include a somewhat small cargo area compared to competitors, and some find the infotainment system to be less intuitive than others on the market.

Engine

2.5L SKYACTIV-G 4-Cylinder

• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Owners have reported instances of excessive oil consumption, requiring them to add oil between scheduled oil changes. The issue may become more pronounced as the vehicle ages. Symptoms include low oil level warning lights, noticeable drop in oil level on the dipstick, and in some severe cases, blue smoke from the exhaust.
  • Solution: There is no universally agreed upon fix. Some owners have had success with using a thicker viscosity oil. Others have had to replace piston rings or the entire engine.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $7,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Engine Mount Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported premature failure of the engine mounts. This can cause excessive vibration, especially at idle, and can sometimes be felt through the steering wheel.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty engine mounts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

SKYACTIV-Drive 6-Speed Automatic

• Harsh Shifting/Jerking
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have experienced rough or jerky shifting, especially when the transmission is cold. This may be more noticeable between 1st and 2nd gear, or during downshifts.
  • Solution: In some cases, a software update to the transmission control module (TCM) can improve shifting performance. In other cases, replacement of the transmission may be required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (for software update) - $4,000+ (for transmission replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Rear Shock Absorber Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Premature failure and leakage of the rear shock absorbers. Symptoms include a bouncy ride, decreased handling stability, and visible fluid leaking from the shocks.
  • Solution: Replacement of the leaking shock absorbers.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Freezing/Rebooting
  • Description/Symptoms: The infotainment system can freeze, become unresponsive, or spontaneously reboot. This can affect navigation, audio, and other vehicle functions.
  • Solution: Software updates may resolve some of these issues. In severe cases, the infotainment unit may need to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (for software update) - $1,000+ (for unit replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported issues with the battery draining quickly, especially if the vehicle is not driven frequently.
  • Solution: Ensuring all lights are off and accessories are unplugged when the vehicle is off. Replacing the battery. Checking for parasitic draws.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Liftgate Strut Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Weak or failing liftgate struts can cause the liftgate to not stay open, or to close unexpectedly.
  • Solution: Replacement of the liftgate struts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Rattling Noises
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported various rattling noises coming from the dashboard, door panels, or rear cargo area.
  • Solution: Locating and securing the source of the rattle, which may involve tightening screws, adding felt padding, or replacing loose clips.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 - $200+ (depending on complexity)
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2017 Mazda CX-5, while generally reliable, has some common issues to be aware of. The most concerning seem to be related to excessive oil consumption and transmission issues that can be costly to repair. Electrical gremlins like the infotainment system freezing can be frustrating, but are often less expensive to resolve. Overall, potential buyers should be aware of these potential issues and have a pre-purchase inspection performed to assess the vehicle’s condition.