2021 Mazda 5 Reliability Report

Owners report several electrical system issues with the 2021 Mazda 5, including infotainment system failures where screens go blank or audio stops working, often requiring a reset or extended shutdown. Complaints frequently mention blind spot monitoring and lane assist systems failing to function reliably, with one incident leading to a crash due to the blind spot monitor not alerting the driver. Two separate fire incidents are reported, one occurring while the vehicle was stationary and another during towing, though no injuries were sustained in these cases. Sudden unintended acceleration is also noted, with one case resulting in a crash and injury. These issues occur at various mileages, with some as early as 1,500 miles, suggesting potential reliability concerns for prospective buyers.

Owners of the 2021 Mazda 5 frequently report issues with the braking system, including underpowered brakes, excessive shaking, and premature wear of brake pads and rotors. Complaints often describe brakes feeling soft after driving in traffic and sudden, hard automatic braking without driver input, sometimes linked to sensor obstructions. Mileage at which these issues occur varies, with reports as early as 5 miles and up to 28,000 miles. Safety concerns are evident, as some owners experience loss of control or unexpected stops, especially in adverse weather conditions. Potential buyers should be aware of these recurring brake-related problems and their implications for driving safety.

Owners report frequent issues with the airbag system in the 2021 Mazda 5, with several complaints mentioning the airbag malfunction warning light repeatedly illuminating during normal driving. Some owners describe the warning appearing and disappearing multiple times per drive, often starting when the vehicle has low mileage, such as under 500 miles. In one case, a crash occurred where the airbags failed to deploy, resulting in an injury, while in other instances, airbags deployed unexpectedly without a collision at low speeds or no apparent impact. These patterns suggest potential safety risks related to both non-deployment and unintended deployment of airbags, which may concern potential buyers.

Owners report that the forward collision avoidance system in the 2021 Mazda 5 frequently malfunctions by detecting non-existent curves, vehicles, and objects, leading to unnecessary steering corrections and emergency braking. Complaints often describe the system activating the brakes abruptly even when there is no imminent collision, particularly during turns or lane changes. These issues are noted to occur both on highways and city streets, with some owners indicating the problem has been present throughout the vehicle's life. Safety implications are significant, with multiple reports of near rear-end collisions due to sudden braking. Buyers should be aware of these reported malfunctions, as they pose potential risks for unexpected vehicle behavior.

Owners of the 2021 Mazda 5 report issues primarily related to unintended acceleration and malfunctioning adaptive cruise control. Multiple complaints describe incidents where the vehicle suddenly accelerates despite the driver applying the brake, often resulting in crashes, as seen in four of the five reports. These incidents have led to injuries, with symptoms including neck and back pain, contusions, and bruises. Additionally, the adaptive cruise control system may fail to decelerate the vehicle when approaching stopped traffic, particularly in snowy conditions where radar obstruction is noted. These issues are reported at low mileage, such as around 3,500 miles, and carry significant safety implications given the frequency of crashes and injuries involved. Used car buyers should be aware of these patterns when considering this model.

Owners of the 2021 Mazda 5 report steering-related issues, with one complaint involving a crash where the vehicle unexpectedly veered right and accelerated without driver input, resulting in a collision. Multiple reports mention steering wheel vibrations while turning and instances where the steering wheel locks, particularly when the vehicle shuts down unexpectedly. These incidents occur at various mileages, with one report noting a failure around 81,000 miles. Safety implications include loss of control and potential for crashes, as evidenced by the reported collision. Used car buyers should be aware of these steering-related complaints, which may indicate recurring issues with vehicle control.

Owners report issues with the suspension system of the 2021 Mazda 5, particularly involving the control arm lower ball joints and the trailing link shaft. Complaints frequently mention torn control arm lower ball joints at approximately 31,000 miles, which necessitate replacement due to safety concerns. Additionally, a broken or split trailing link shaft at the right rear wheel is reported at around 16,500 miles. These issues may pose safety hazards, though no crashes or loss of control are explicitly noted. Used car buyers might consider inspecting these components, especially around these mileage marks.