2020 Mazda 5 Reliability Report

Owners of the 2020 Mazda 5 frequently report issues with the automatic emergency braking system activating unexpectedly, even when no obstacles are present, leading to sudden stops or severe braking events. Complaints often detail instances where the system engages without warning, causing potential rear-end collision risks, especially in traffic or when vehicles are following closely. Two incidents involve crashes, with three injuries reported, indicating significant safety implications. Some owners also describe premature brake wear, such as grinding noises and the need for brake and caliper replacement at relatively low mileages, around 3,000 to 32,000 miles. These patterns suggest potential reliability concerns for prospective buyers of this model.

Owners report several engine-related issues with the 2020 Mazda CX-5. Multiple complaints describe oil leaks from components such as the cylinder head, oil seal, timing cover, and oil pan gasket, with some leaks leading to oil consumption concerns and low oil warnings. These issues often emerge around 50,000 to 60,000 miles. Additionally, owners mention engine noise and a "whoop" sound when idling, as well as a faulty engine coolant thermostat. Some reports highlight safety implications, such as vehicles being stranded due to oil light warnings, which could pose a risk in isolated or unsafe locations.

Owners of the 2020 Mazda 5 frequently report issues related to the power train, particularly involving the torque converter and transmission system. Common symptoms include a chirping noise during gear shifts, especially from 3rd to 4th gear, and abnormal jerking while accelerating. These problems are often noted at relatively low mileages, with several reports around 30,000 to 60,000 miles. Some owners mention significant transmission damage due to metal fragments or a faulty torque converter, with potential safety implications such as unexpected vehicle stops or limp mode activation at highway speeds. Buyers considering a used model should be aware of these issues, especially if the vehicle has not undergone relevant repairs or warranty extensions.

Owners of the 2020 Mazda 5 frequently report structural issues, including problems with the sunroof and water leaks. One complaint describes an exploding sunroof under normal temperature conditions, while another mentions water entering the cabin through the driver's door window, with service centers unable to diagnose the source. Multiple owners also describe a high-pitched noise from the vehicle's doors at highway speeds during strong crosswinds, with some dealers acknowledging the issue but unable to reproduce it without specific conditions. Additionally, a rear camera and warning system failure is linked to a crash, highlighting a potential safety concern. These complaints occur in vehicles as new as one year old, suggesting issues can manifest relatively early in ownership.

Owners of the 2020 Mazda 5 report unexpected airbag deployments, particularly involving the passenger side curtain and seat airbags. Complaints frequently mention these deployments occurring without any collision or road hazard, leading to sudden loud noises, temporary hearing loss, and disorientation while driving. In one instance, airbags failed to deploy during a crash with a guard rail, resulting in an injury. These incidents typically occur without prior warning lights or messages, and diagnostic evaluations often fail to identify a clear cause. The unanticipated deployment poses significant safety risks, including potential for loss of control and compromised driver and passenger safety.

Owners of the 2020 Mazda 5 frequently report issues with sudden unintended acceleration, often occurring while the vehicle is stationary or moving slowly. Common symptoms include the vehicle accelerating on its own despite the driver applying the brake, and in one case, the car moving forward while in park. These incidents have resulted in crashes, with one report noting an injury and significant vehicle damage. No specific mileage range is consistently mentioned across complaints, but the incidents typically occur in situations such as parking or drive-thru scenarios. Prospective buyers should be aware of these reports, as they indicate potential safety risks involving loss of vehicle control.

Owners report issues with the steering system of the 2020 Mazda 5, with complaints highlighting problems related to lane departure systems and steering control. A common issue involves the lane departure warning system activating unexpectedly, especially in areas with construction where lane markings are unclear, leading to unwanted steering corrections that could result in near-collisions. Another significant complaint involves the vehicle taking control of the steering at highway speeds, causing erratic movements across lanes without driver input, posing a risk of accidents. These issues are noted at low mileages, such as 1,177 miles, and raise safety concerns due to the potential for loss of vehicle control. Buyers should be aware of these steering system behaviors, particularly in urban driving or highway conditions.