RoadVitals

2016 Mazda CX-5

Recalls, owner-reported complaints, investigations and safety data

Data refreshed

Owner complaintsComplaints are reports submitted to NHTSA by owners and drivers. NHTSA does not verify most reports before publishing them, and a complaint does not establish that a defect exists. Volume is influenced by how many of a vehicle were sold, how long it has been on the road, and how much attention an issue has received.
512
+2 complaints in 30 days
Safety recallsA safety recall is issued when a manufacturer or NHTSA determines that a vehicle has a safety-related defect or does not comply with a federal motor vehicle safety standard. Recall repairs are free. Whether a specific vehicle is covered depends on its VIN — a recall listed for a model year does not necessarily apply to every vehicle of that year.
5
Latest Feb 6, 2020
InvestigationsNHTSA opens an investigation to examine whether a safety defect may exist. An open investigation is not a determination that a defect exists, and many investigations close without a recall. Investigations can, however, lead to one.
0
Crash or fire reportedComplaints whose submitter recorded that a crash or a fire occurred. These are the reporter's own answers on the NHTSA form, not verified findings.
41
13 injuries, 0 deaths reported

Overview

Our database contains 512 NHTSA owner-reported complaints for the 2016 Mazda CX-5, most frequently naming the exterior lighting, electrical and brakes categories. 5 safety recalls have been issued covering this model year; and 706 manufacturer communications are on file.

Complaints are reports submitted by owners and drivers to NHTSA. They are not verified and do not establish that a defect exists.

What owners report

Complaints grouped by the component NHTSA recorded

Percentages are of component mentions. A single complaint can name more than one component, so these do not sum to the total complaint count.

Safety recalls

5 campaigns cover this model year

View all 5

Recalls apply to specific vehicles, not to every vehicle of a model year. Check your VIN with NHTSA or your manufacturer's dealer to confirm whether a recall affects your vehicle.

Check a VIN on NHTSA.gov
20V063000

EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS

Feb 6, 2020
36,761 units potentially affected
The defect: Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain 2016 CX-5 vehicles. The LED Daytime Running Lights (DRL) may fail while driving.
The risk: If the DRL fails, the vehicle's visibility may be reduced to other drivers on the road, increasing the risk of a crash.
The remedy: Mazda will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the headlights, and replace the sealing gasket or headlight assemblies, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began March 20, 2020. Owners may contact Mazda customer service at 1-800-222-5500 Option 4. Mazda's number for this recall is 4320A.
Mazda North American OperationsManufacturer number 4320AView on NHTSA.gov
16V644000

STRUCTURE:BODY:HATCHBACK/LIFTGATE

Sep 6, 2016
580,455 units potentially affected
The defect: Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain model year 2010-2013 Mazda3 and Mazdaspeed3 vehicles manufactured November 18, 2008, to June 8, 2013, 2012-2015 Mazda5 vehicles manufactured October 26, 2010, to June 22, 2015, 2016 CX-3 vehicles manufactured June 1, 2015, to December 26, 2015, and 2013-2016 CX-5 vehicles manufactured December 15, 2011, to December 26, 2015. On the affected vehicles, the lift gate support struts may corrode, possibly causing the struts to break and/or the lift gate to drop unexpectedly.
The risk: If the lift gate falls unexpectedly, it may hit the user, increasing their risk of injury.
The remedy: Mazda dealers will replace the both lift gate supports, free of charge, however parts are not currently available. The recall began April 2017. Owners may contact Mazda customer service at 1-800-222-5500. Mazda's number for this recall is 9916H.
Mazda North American OperationsManufacturer number 9916HView on NHTSA.gov
16V203000

STEERING

Apr 11, 2016
578 units potentially affected
The defect: Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain model year 2016 CX-3 vehicles manufactured June 1, 2015, to December 2, 2015, 2013-2014 Mazda2 vehicles manufactured July 3, 2013, to August 8, 2014, 2014-2016 CX-5 vehicles manufactured January 19, 2013, to December 2, 2015, and 2013-2015 CX-9 vehicles manufactured December 6, 2012, to July 31, 2015. The lower mounting nuts and bolts that attach the front strut assembly to the steering knuckle may loosen, allowing the steering knuckle to separate.
The risk: If the steering knuckle separates from the strut assembly, it can cause a loss of steering control, increasing the risk of a crash.
The remedy: Mazda will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the lower mounting nuts and bolts that secure the front strut assembly to the steering knuckle. If the bolts are loose, they will be replaced and then correctly tightened, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin May 20, 2016. Owners may contact Mazda customer service at 1-800-222-5500. Mazda's number for this recall is 9316D.
Mazda North American OperationsManufacturer number 9316DView on NHTSA.gov

Recent owner complaints

Reports submitted to NHTSA, shown in the owner's own words

View all 512
ElectricalVisibility
Filed Oct 27, 2026

My windshield wipers stopped working completely. I am unable to see out my front window properly while its raining. Yes the dealership said that my front body control module needs to be replaced which is the same issue that other Mazdas from the same era have had safety recalls for (nhtsa campaign 19v272000). No it hasn't been inspected by anyone other than a Mazda dealership. The front wipers slowly stopped working. First the highest setting didn't work at all, then the wipers would work sporadically, and now they don't work at all.

NHTSA ID
11774059
Incident
Oct 21, 2026
Interior & seats
Filed Oct 21, 2026

I own a 2016 Mazda CX-5 Grand Touring and discovered two brown, burn-like marks on the lower seatback of a heated front seat. I suspect the seat heater overheated and damaged the upholstery. The discoloration is concentrated in the lower back/lumbar area, and I have photographs documenting it. I am concerned that continued use could cause further overheating, burns to an occupant, or a fire. I am reporting this as a seat-heater safety defect and requesting investigation.

NHTSA ID
11772683
Incident
Oct 20, 2026
Suspension
Filed Aug 5, 2026

Rear subframe corrosion on this vehicle. I am in a winter road salt region, the materials used for this vehicle's subframe are not compatible with consistent driving in this region. Similar vehicles (not mine?) were subject to a recall for the front subframe, but nothing for the rear. This rear subframe issues caused multiple failures of virtually every component of the rear suspension - control arms, rear springs, etc. The repair cost for JUST the subframe was $3813. Not repairing it was not an option - the vehicle had failed mandatory State of Maine inspection (a safety thing, if I'm not mistaken). This should be a Mazda problem, not a me problem. I contacted Mazda USA about this issue and got no response.

NHTSA ID
11754892
Incident
Feb 2, 2026
Suspension
Filed Aug 5, 2026

Rear subframe corrosion on this vehicle. I am in a winter road salt region, the materials used for this vehicle's subframe are not compatible with consistent driving in this region. Similar vehicles (not mine?) were subject to a recall for the front subframe, but nothing for the rear. This rear subframe issues caused multiple failures of virtually every component of the rear suspension - control arms, rear springs, etc. The repair cost for JUST the subframe was $3813. Not repairing it was not an option - the vehicle had failed mandatory State of Maine inspection (a safety thing, if I'm not mistaken). This should be a Mazda problem, not a me problem. I contacted Mazda USA about this issue and got no response.

NHTSA ID
11754891
Incident
Feb 2, 2026
BrakesElectrical
Filed Jul 30, 2026

The contact owns a 2016 Mazda CX-5. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the electric parking brake module warning light was illuminated and the "Brake failure. Vehicle unsafe to drive," message was displayed on the instrument panel. The vehicle was taken back to the residence. The failure occurred on several different occasions. The contact expressed concern that the brakes could engage while the vehicle was in motion. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 84,000.

NHTSA ID
11753843
Incident
Jul 16, 2025
Mileage
84,000 mi
Electrical
Filed Jun 22, 2026

Repeated Failure and Rebooting of Mazda Connect Infotainment System I am the owner of a 2016 Mazda CX-5. The factory Mazda Connect infotainment system has developed a recurring defect in which the system repeatedly reboots to the Mazda logo while driving. Prior to complete failure, the navigation system became intermittent and Bluetooth connectivity frequently disconnected, requiring repeated attempts to reconnect devices. The system now continuously cycles through the startup screen, making navigation, hands-free phone functions, and system settings inaccessible. These repeated reboots occur while the vehicle is in motion and are distracting to the driver. The flashing and rebooting screen repeatedly draws the driver's attention away from the road and interferes with the use of navigation and hands-free communication features that are intended to promote safe driving. After researching this issue, I found numerous reports from other Mazda owners experiencing the same symptoms involving the Mazda Connect system, navigation SD card, and Connectivity Master Unit (CMU). The frequency and similarity of these reports suggest that this is a widespread and well-known defect rather than an isolated incident. Because this defect affects driver attention and the safe operation of the vehicle's communication and navigation functions, I respectfully request that Mazda and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration investigate this matter and require Mazda to issue a recall or establish a repair program for affected vehicles. Vehicle: 2016 Mazda CX-5 Mileage: 70k

NHTSA ID
11745804
Incident
Jun 18, 2026
Electrical
Filed Jun 16, 2026

The contact owns a 2016 Mazda CX-5. The contact stated that while driving 70 MPH with the cruise control activated, the cruise control cancellation switch failed to operate as intended after several attempts or while depressing the brake pedal. No warning light was illuminated. In addition, the contact was able to deactivate the cruise control using the main cruise control power switch. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer to be diagnosed; however, the cause of the failure was not yet determined. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure by the local dealer. The failure mileage was approximately 91,000.

NHTSA ID
11744529
Incident
Mar 26, 2026
Mileage
91,000 mi
Electrical
Filed Jun 1, 2026

In 2024 I started having problems with my battery replaced it 3 times last time with a Mazda battery per Mazda advice. The car started to jerk while driving took it back to Mazda said it could be fuel injectors. They cleaned them and problem persists. Took it back they cleaned purve valve and then I broke down while leaving on [XXX] . Called service dept called police since it was in the middle of the blvd. And in traffic. We were lucky no one hit us. They took my car gave me a loaner had it for 10 days. Couldn’t find any problems. Then in 4/2025 it completely died at my home I called Mazda they were able to jump the battery and had it for a month. Couldn’t find any problem. And now we are in 5/2026 my car was in my drive without out being driven for 3 days and now is dead once again. But it is so dead that I cannot open with fob and dash board is black. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA ID
11741365
Incident
Apr 14, 2025

Manufacturer communications

A bulletin sent by a manufacturer to its dealers. Not a recall, and repairs are not necessarily free.

09-028-26

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

This bulletin supersedes the previously issued bulletin(s) listed below. The changes are noted below in Red. 09-038/24 08/08/24 NOTE: This service information is NOT applicable to 7th generation Mazda vehicles because the odometer data is stored in the BCM. DESCRIPTION In accordance with Federal regulations, follow the procedure listed below when replacing a speedometer. NOTE: Tampering with a motor vehicle odometer is strictly prohibited by Federal, and State laws. It is the dealer’s responsibility to comply with Federal, State, and local laws concerning odometer and related documentation requirements when providing a repair or replacement. Mazda vehicles are manufactured with tamper-proof speedometers.

SA-041-26a

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

DESCRIPTION If you encounter any type of electrical concern (e.g, dead battery, engine no start, DTC(s) stored...), interview the customer before proceeding with normal MGSS diagnosis by asking if any aftermarket devices have been installed. Aftermarket devices may be the cause of the electrical concern. Below are a few examples of unusual electrical concerns caused by aftermarket devices. Examples: 1. Devices connected to the DLC-2 (battery discharge/DTC stored) 2. Devices plugged into the 12V outlet 3. GPS tracking device (engine no start/battery discharge) 4. Dash cam (DTC stored) 5. Non-certified USB cable (Apple Carplay™/ Android Auto™ will not connect) 6. Over-sized wheels/tires (incorrect GPS location) 7. DTC C0023:14 8. Decorative trim and/or cover on the START/STOP ENGINE button

SA-041-26

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM; ENGINE

This SA supersedes the previously issued SA(s) listed below. The changes are noted in Red. SA-061/25 12/17/25 DESCRIPTION If you encounter any type of electrical concern (e.g, dead battery, engine no start, DTC(s) stored...), interview the customer before proceeding with normal MGSS diagnosis by asking if any aftermarket devices have been installed. Aftermarket devices may be the cause of the electrical concern. Below are a few examples of unusual electrical concerns caused by aftermarket devices. Examples: 1. Devices connected to the DLC-2 (battery discharge/DTC stored) 2. Devices plugged into the 12V outlet 3. GPS tracking device (engine no start/battery discharge) 4. Dash cam (DTC stored) 5. Non-certified USB cable (Apple Carplay™/ Android Auto™ will not connect) 6. Over-sized wheels/tires (incorrect GPS location) 7. DTC C0023:14 8. Decorative trim and/or cover on the START/STOP ENGINE button Example 1: Some electrical devices connected to the DLC-2 connector by insurance or mobile phone companies may cause: Battery discharge. The device may disrupt the CAN system battery saver mode. • IDS/MMDS will not communicate with the vehicle due to poor DLC-2 connection. The aftermarket device may cause DLC-2 female terminals to spread open.

01-008-26

POWER TRAIN

This bulletin supersedes the previously issued bulletin(s) listed below. The changes are noted in Red. 01-008/23 06/05/23 Some vehicles may exhibit rattling noises from the engine compartment and oil leakage from the drive belt auto tensioner. This may be caused by insufficient sealing at the drive belt auto tensioner damper when the auto tensioner fully operates under both high ambient temperature and high load conditions. To eliminate this concern, the shape of the drive belt auto tensioner damper has been changed. REPAIR PROCEDURE If the tensioner is found to be "No Good" after completing the Drive Belt Auto Tensioner Inspection, replace it with a modified part according to the instructions on MGSS online:

SA-031-26

STRUCTURE:BODY

DESCRIPTION Some vehicles may require the replacement of a damaged VIN plate or vehicle certification label. To obtain a replacement VIN plate (bulkhead-mounted and visible through the lower-left area of the windshield), contact DAG (Dealer Assistance Group) using VIN Plate Request Form available on One Mazda. To obtain a replacement vehicle certification label (located on the B􀀀pillar or front door), contact your assigned DSM (District Service Manager) to place the order. If DSM contact information is not available, refer to the Dealer & Field Contact Directory.

SA-029-26

ENGINE; POWER TRAIN; SERVICE BRAKES

This Service Alert supersedes the previously issued SA listed below: The changes are noted in Red. SA-011/24 02/12/24, 06/06/24, 07/29/24 DESCRIPTION Mazda has developed factory recommended scheduled maintenance services that support all major vehicle systems. Mazda recommends dealers follow the scheduled maintenance tables as cited in the vehicle-specific workshop manual or owner's manual. Services performed outside of Mazda's factory scheduled maintenance are not recommended. These services are unnecessary and create unneeded expenses for your customers. SCHEDULED MAINTENANCE Refer to the applicable Workshop Manual or Owner's Manual for vehicle -specific manufacturer scheduled maintenance. Workshop Manual - Refer to section 00-00 SCHEDULED MAINTENANCE. Owner's Manual - Refer to section 8 Maintenance and Care. b. Note: Please refer to the information below outlining the services not included in Mazda's Factory Scheduled Maintenance: IMPORTANT: Recommending fluid flushes when not necessary can lead to customer confusion and dissatisfaction. Fluid flushing for preventive maintenance purposes is strongly discouraged, unless otherwise specified in a published procedure (Owner’s Manual, Workshop Manual, Technical Service Bulletin, etc.).

Manufacturers file copies of the bulletins they send to dealers with NHTSA. These often describe diagnostic or repair procedures for a known condition. They are not recalls: repairs described in a bulletin are usually only free if the vehicle is still under warranty or the manufacturer has extended coverage.

Compare model years

Complaint and recall counts across every year of this model

Mazda CX-5 by model year
YearComplaintsRecallsInvestigationsIssue Index
2027000—
2026190041.3
2025290052.6
2024470047.1
2023670048.6
2022650048.7
20211500044.8
20201100047.5
20192732053.9
20183563057.1
20171501045.4
2016Viewing5125055.1
20151334050.9
20143774045.8
20131941040.7
2012100—

Higher-selling and older vehicles accumulate more reports. Counts are not failure rates and are not directly comparable between vehicles that sold in very different numbers. Older model years have had longer for reports to accumulate.