NHTSA lists 1 safety recall and 150 owner complaints for the 2017 Mazda CX-5. Most complaints involve electrical system (44) and engine (16). The EPA rates it 26–27 mpg combined, and NHTSA gives it 4 stars overall.
Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain 2017 CX-5 vehicles equipped with an accessory trailer hitch wiring harness. This harness may be routed such that there is insufficient clearance between the harness and the exhaust muffler, allowing the wiring harness to contact the muffler.
Complaints are unverified owner reports to NHTSA and are not normalized for sales volume. One complaint can cite several components.
“The radio is uncontrollable by driver. The radio the self dial from Bluetooth. Even if not connected, the radio surprises this driver by playing the radio unexpectedly at the highest rate. Due to the buttons not working, driver cannot turn down the radio causing safety concerns for being scared and distracted. There are no warnings. Mazda is unwilling to assess without pay.”
“My 2017 Mazda CX-5 has experienced a recurring condition more than six times involving sudden jerking, rapid deceleration, and loss of normal accelerator response during extended highway driving, often while cruise control is engaged. On multiple occasions the engine has also shut down. On 09/11/2026, while traveling south on I-35 at approximately 80 mph with cruise control engaged, the vehicle suddenly began jerking violently and rapidly losing speed. Normal accelerator response was lost and a vehicle behind me nearly struck my vehicle. I was able to reach the shoulder just before the engine shut down. The vehicle would not restart and required towing. There was little or no meaningful warning before the loss of power. The vehicle was inspected by a Mazda dealer. I specifically reported the recurring highway jerking, deceleration, loss of throttle response, and shutdown concern. An aftermarket OBD-II device was removed after the dealer identified parasitic battery draw. The dealer subsequently stated in writing that the battery and alternator were healthy and that the vehicle was “operating as intended.” On 10/09/2026, with that device no longer installed, the…”
“My car started to smell like gas. I brought it to a shop and there was a leak in my high pressure pump in which the gas was leaking on to my engine. I paid $1600 to have this replaced and there is only 88,000 miles on the car.”
Towing, payload and dimensions aren’t in the EPA or NHTSA data, so we don’t list them.
| Version | City | Hwy | Comb. | Fuel / yr | CO₂ g/mi |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| CX-5 2WD Auto (S6), 4 cyl, 2.5 L · Front-Wheel Drive | 24 | 31 | 27 | $2,400 | 328 |
| CX-5 4WD Auto (S6), 4 cyl, 2.5 L · 4-Wheel Drive | 23 | 29 | 26 | $2,450 | 352 |
| Item | Miles | Time | Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine oil & filter | 5,000–10,000 mi | 6–12 months | Follow the oil-life monitor if fitted |
| Tire rotation | 5,000–7,500 mi | Every oil change | Check pressure monthly |
| Engine air filter | 15,000–30,000 mi | 1–2 years | Sooner in dusty areas |
| Cabin air filter | 15,000–25,000 mi | 1–2 years | |
| Brake fluid | — | 2–3 years | Absorbs moisture over time |
| Coolant | 60,000–100,000 mi | 5–10 years | Long-life coolants last longer |
| Spark plugs | 60,000–100,000 mi | — | Iridium/platinum plugs at the long end |
| 12V battery | — | 3–5 years | Heat shortens battery life |
1 safety recall as of Nov 3, 2026, according to NHTSA. Recall repairs are free at a dealer. Check your VIN to see whether your car is included and whether the repair was done.
Owners filed 150 complaints with NHTSA. The most-cited components are electrical system (44), engine (16), fuel/propulsion system (15). Complaints are unverified owner reports and aren't adjusted for how many cars were sold.
The EPA rates the 2017 Mazda CX-5 at 26–27 mpg combined, depending on engine and drivetrain (2 versions rated).
NHTSA's New Car Assessment Program gives the 2017 Mazda CX-5 4 out of 5 stars overall.