2023 Mazda CX-50

The 2023 Mazda CX-50 is a compact crossover SUV praised for its stylish design, engaging driving dynamics, and upscale interior. It’s available with two engine options: a naturally aspirated 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 187 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque, and a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine delivering 256 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque (on premium fuel). Both engines are paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. Owners often appreciate the CX-50’s comfortable ride, responsive handling, and user-friendly infotainment system. Some common dislikes include the rear seat legroom, which can be tight for taller passengers, and the relatively small cargo area compared to some competitors.

Engine

2.5L Naturally Aspirated Four-Cylinder

• No Issues Found

2.5L Turbocharged Four-Cylinder

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported oil leaks, potentially from the turbocharger oil lines or valve cover gasket. Symptoms include visible oil drips under the vehicle, a burning oil smell, and low oil levels.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty oil lines or valve cover gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

Six-Speed Automatic (Both Engine Options)

• Harsh Shifting/Hesitation
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have experienced harsh or abrupt shifts, particularly when shifting from 1st to 2nd gear, or a hesitation when accelerating from a stop.
  • Solution: A software update to the transmission control module (TCM) may resolve the issue. In more severe cases, valve body replacement might be needed.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (software update) - $800 - $1500+ (valve body)
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• No Issues Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Freezing/Crashing
  • Description/Symptoms: The infotainment system (Mazda Connect) may occasionally freeze, become unresponsive, or crash, requiring a restart.
  • Solution: Restarting the system or a software update from the dealer.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (Restart / Software Update)
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Windshield Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: A few owners have reported that the windshield is prone to cracking easily, even from small impacts.
  • Solution: Windshield Replacement
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Rattling Noises
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported rattling noises coming from the dashboard or door panels, especially on rough roads.
  • Solution: Locating and securing the source of the rattle. This may involve adding padding or tightening loose components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sunroof Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Reports of sunroof leaks are present. Water can drip from headliner after heavy rain.
  • Solution: Diagnose drain lines, and replace sunroof seal.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2023 Mazda CX-50 generally appears to be a reliable vehicle, but a few common issues have surfaced. Oil leaks on the turbocharged engine, harsh shifting with the transmission, infotainment glitches, easily cracked windshields, and interior rattles are the most frequently mentioned complaints. The severity of these issues ranges from minor annoyances (rattles, infotainment glitches) to potentially more significant problems (oil leaks, transmission issues), which can lead to higher repair costs. Overall, it is best to perform a pre-purchase inspection to identify these issues if they are present.