2026 Mazda CX-5Recalls, problems, MPG & safety
NHTSA lists 0 safety recalls and 17 owner complaints for the 2026 Mazda CX-5. Most complaints involve electrical system (5) and forward collision avoidance (3). The EPA rates it 26 mpg combined.
Safety recalls
Owner complaints by component
- Electrical system5
- Forward collision avoidance3
- Visibility/wiper3
- Service brakes2
- Exterior lighting1
- Seats1
- Power train1
- Equipment1
- Back over prevention1
Complaints are unverified owner reports to NHTSA and are not normalized for sales volume. One complaint can cite several components.
What owners report most
Electrical system
“I leased a brand new vehicle on June 8th. On June 12th, I took it to the dealer's service center because of a warning message, accompanied with a loud chime that said: "Emergency Call Unit Malfunction", the SOS red light was also on. I picked the car up today, June 15th. Shortly leaving the dealership, I was driving on the freeway crawling traffic with my husband and 4 year old child in the vehicle. Suddenly, the service/wrench icon started flashing on the dashboard, and the car's engine completely died and stalled while we were moving on the highway. At the exact second the engine died, dash and infotainment screen went completely black, the A/C shut off as well. I instantly lost my speedometer and all safety alerts while stuck in traffic. I was still stepping on my brakes, and turned my hazard lights on so we could pull over to safety. Screens went back on and engine came back on. We were fortunate to be by the nearest exit and took it. The screens went back on, but service light was still flashing. We were able to drive the car to Mazda, and was provided a loaner car. This is a massive safety issue and hazard that put my family in immediate danger on a busy…”
Forward collision avoidance
“SEVERE SAFETY DEFECT involving sudden, unprovoked vehicle braking; While driving my 2026 Mazda CX5 at approximately 10-15 MPH or less, the smart brake support-automatic emergency brake system suddenly activated without any warning or obstacle present. The vehicle violently braked and prepared for impact, causing the wheels to lock up and rendering the car temporarily unmovable. This has occurred already on 4-5 separate occasions on dry roads during daylight. This is a severe, recurring safety defect that nearly caused a rear end collision on all 4-5 occasions. My 2 small children are scared every time we have to get in the car and drive, as i am also. The dealership has been notified, but the safety issue persists. I am looking to get out of this UNSAFE and UNRELIABLE car in fear of my familys life.”
Visibility/wiper
“Have a cracked windshield from a chip near the wiper area Mazda says needs to be replaced But they are on National back order Was told that when the windshield caves in or collapses Then an emergency order can be put in”
Engines, transmissions & drive
- EPA class
- Small Sport Utility Vehicle 4WD
- Engines
- 2.5L 4-cyl
- Transmissions
- Automatic (S6)
- Drive
- 4-Wheel Drive
- Fuel
- Regular Gasoline
Towing, payload and dimensions aren’t in the EPA or NHTSA data, so we don’t list them.
EPA fuel economy by version
| Version | City | Hwy | Comb. | Fuel / yr | CO₂ g/mi |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| CX-5 4WD Auto (S6), 4 cyl, 2.5 L · 4-Wheel Drive | 24 | 30 | 26 | $2,450 | 339 |
- 26mpg comb.
NHTSA 5-Star Safety Ratings
Maintenance basics
| 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 |
- Engine oil & filter5,000–10,000 mi
6–12 months - Tire rotation5,000–7,500 mi
Every oil change - Engine air filter15,000–30,000 mi
1–2 years - Cabin air filter15,000–25,000 mi
1–2 years - Brake fluid—
2–3 years - Coolant60,000–100,000 mi
5–10 years - Spark plugs60,000–100,000 mi
— - 12V battery—
3–5 years
2026 CX-5 questions
How many recalls does the 2026 Mazda CX-5 have?
0 recalls found in NHTSA data as of Nov 3, 2026.
What are the most common 2026 Mazda CX-5 problems?
Owners filed 17 complaints with NHTSA. The most-cited components are electrical system (5), forward collision avoidance (3), visibility/wiper (3). Complaints are unverified owner reports and aren't adjusted for how many cars were sold.
What MPG does the 2026 Mazda CX-5 get?
The EPA rates the 2026 Mazda CX-5 at 26 mpg combined, depending on engine and drivetrain (1 version rated).