2020 Mazda CX-5 VIN Check, Recalls & Reliability

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Owners of the 2020 Mazda CX-5 frequently report issues with the infotainment system, particularly "ghost touch" phenomena where the touchscreen behaves erratically, such as changing settings, adjusting volume, and making unintended phone calls. These malfunctions often occur while driving, causing significant distractions. Another common issue is intermittent battery drain, which can lead to the vehicle not starting. Some complaints also mention problems with the electronic parking brake system. These electrical issues are reported at various mileage levels, with some occurring as early as 16,000 miles. Safety concerns are noted, as one complaint involves a crash and injury linked to these malfunctions.

Severity signals: 1 crash, 0 fire, 1 injury reports

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

Owners of the 2020 Mazda CX-5 frequently report issues with the vehicle's infotainment system, specifically a "ghost touch" defect where the screen makes selections without driver input. Symptoms include random changes to settings, unexpected phone calls, and abrupt volume adjustments, which are distracting and potentially hazardous while driving. This issue is noted at various mileages, often beyond the warranty period, and is described as a known yet unresolved problem by Mazda. Additionally, several owners report spontaneous sunroof explosions while driving, which occur regardless of temperature and without apparent external impact, posing a risk of sudden noise and potential loss of vehicle control. These patterns suggest potential safety implications, particularly concerning driver distraction and loss of control.

ENGINE

Owners report several engine-related issues with the 2020 Mazda CX-5, primarily concerning oil leaks and oil consumption. Complaints frequently mention oil leaks originating from the cylinder head, timing cover, and oil pan gasket, with some leaks leading to low oil levels and illuminated oil warning lights. These issues are often discovered during routine maintenance or when the low oil light activates, typically occurring around 50,000 to 65,000 miles. Safety implications include potential engine failure and the risk of being stranded, as some owners have experienced low oil levels while driving, necessitating immediate attention. Additionally, a few owners describe unusual engine sounds and engine running after shutdown, although these are less common.

SERVICE BRAKES

Owners of the 2020 Mazda CX-5 frequently report issues with the service brakes, including sudden and unexpected automatic braking events. Several complaints describe scenarios where the vehicle's emergency braking system activates without an apparent threat, often when a car in front is turning, leading to sudden deceleration and potential rear-end collision risks. Notably, two incidents involve crashes, with one report detailing brake failure during parking, resulting in a collision. Another common issue involves premature brake wear, with one owner noting significant brake and caliper degradation at just 32,000 miles. Safety implications are evident, with three injuries reported, highlighting potential risks for buyers considering this model.

Severity signals: 2 crash, 0 fire, 3 injury reports

POWER TRAIN

Owners of the 2020 Mazda CX-5 frequently report issues related to the transmission, including jerking and chirping noises, particularly during gear shifts between 3rd and 4th gear. Several complaints indicate that these problems are often linked to a faulty torque converter, which can lead to the deposition of metal fragments in the transmission, potentially causing long-term damage. Typical symptoms include abnormal vehicle jerking and distinctive noises during acceleration, with some issues appearing as early as 32,000 miles. Safety concerns are noted, with one report describing the vehicle entering LIMP Mode unexpectedly, affecting adaptive driving systems and bringing the vehicle to a sudden stop. Buyers should be aware of these potential transmission issues and consider the associated repair costs and safety implications.

STRUCTURE

Owners of the 2020 Mazda CX-5 report several structural issues, with the most common involving noise from the doors at highway speeds during strong crosswinds, described as screeching or howling. This issue is noted by multiple owners but is reportedly difficult for dealers to reproduce. Another recurring problem is the auto lift gate opening unexpectedly, which has resulted in damage when it abutted against a garage door. Additionally, there are reports of the rear camera and warning system failing, contributing to a crash, and a windshield leak causing visibility issues. Some owners also report paint chipping, particularly on the hood, and an incident of a sunroof exploding. These issues present potential safety concerns, particularly the camera and windshield problems, and could be relevant for prospective buyers considering this model.

Severity signals: 1 crash, 0 fire, 0 injury reports

FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE

Owners of the 2020 Mazda CX-5 frequently report issues with the forward collision avoidance system, particularly with unexpected and unnecessary activation of automatic emergency braking. Symptoms include the vehicle braking abruptly when no objects are present, such as on clear roads or when crossing railroad tracks. One incident involved a crash when the car unexpectedly accelerated after disengaging adaptive cruise control. Complaints highlight safety concerns, including the risk of rear-end collisions due to sudden stops, with one owner experiencing a crash. The issues seem to occur at various speeds and in different driving conditions, but specific mileage ranges are not consistently mentioned.

Severity signals: 1 crash, 0 fire, 0 injury reports

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

Owners of the 2020 Mazda CX-5 report issues related to unintended acceleration, often occurring when the vehicle is stationary or moving slowly, such as in parking situations or drive-thrus. Complaints frequently mention the vehicle accelerating on its own, even when the driver’s foot is on the brake, leading to two reported crashes and one injury. In some cases, drivers note that the acceleration happens suddenly and with significant force, and one report highlights a "Brake System Malfunction" warning following a crash. The incidents described do not consistently mention specific mileage, suggesting the issue may not be related to vehicle age or wear. These reports indicate potential safety risks, particularly in environments with pedestrians or other vehicles.

Severity signals: 2 crash, 0 fire, 1 injury reports

AIR BAGS

Owners of the 2020 Mazda CX-5 report issues with unintended airbag deployment, particularly involving the side curtain and seat airbags. Complaints frequently mention airbags deploying without any collision or road hazards, resulting in loud explosive sounds, temporary hearing loss, and disorientation. These incidents occur both on city streets and highways, with no prior warning lights or messages. In one case, a crash into a guard rail led to airbags failing to deploy, resulting in an injury. These reports highlight potential safety implications, including impaired visibility and sudden loss of vehicle control.

Severity signals: 1 crash, 0 fire, 1 injury reports

VISIBILITY/WIPER

Owners of the 2020 Mazda CX-5 report issues with the windshield and rear wiper system. One complaint describes the windshield glass spontaneously cracking from the bottom where the defrost vent is located, arcing upward across the driver’s field of view, with no prior impacts or damage noted. Another issue involves the rear windshield wiper stopping after 30-60 minutes of operation during rain, with the problem recurring and eventually reproduced by a dealer. This malfunction poses a safety risk due to impaired rear visibility in wet conditions. These problems are noted without specific mileage ranges, but the rear wiper issue appears to be related to extended operating time rather than environmental conditions.