2020 Mazda CX-5 Reliability Score & Common Problems

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.