2021 Mazda Cx-5 Safety Report
2021 Mazda CX-5: Excellent Crash Safety, Significant Engine Oil Consumption Concerns
AI Safety Analysis for the 2021 Mazda Cx-5
Reliability Score
The 2021 Mazda Cx-5 receives a reliability score of 65 out of 100 based on analysis of NHTSA complaint data, recall history, crash reports, and safety ratings. This indicates average reliability — some notable concerns exist that prospective buyers should be aware of.
Known Issues for the 2021 Mazda Cx-5
The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2021 Mazda Cx-5:
| Issue | Severity | Frequency | Typical Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Excessive Engine Oil Consumption/Leaks Numerous complaints (54 total for ENGINE) report low oil warning lights, significant oil loss between changes, and oil leaks, sometimes requiring frequent top-offs or major seal repairs, even after dealership interventions. |
High | Common | 10000-70000 miles |
| Infotainment System Malfunction The infotainment screen goes dark or freezes, often after hitting bumps, leading to loss of backup camera functionality and radio audio. Owners report this as a known issue, similar to those covered by class-action lawsuits for earlier models. |
Medium | Occasional | unknown miles |
| Unintended Acceleration Multiple reports describe the vehicle accelerating on its own to a high rate of speed without driver input, posing a serious safety risk. |
High | Rare | unknown miles |
| Airbag Deployment Issues Several complaints detail airbags deploying without a significant impact or crash, or the airbag warning light illuminating without cause. |
High | Rare | unknown miles |
| Tire Sidewall Cracking/Bubbles/Pressure Loss Reports of circumferential cracking on tire sidewalls, bubbles, and frequent tire pressure loss, sometimes leading to complete flats on relatively new tires. |
Medium | Occasional | low mileage miles |
Common Problems Reported by Owners
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2021 Mazda Cx-5:
Predominantly excessive oil consumption, low oil warnings, and oil leaks, with some reports of engine shutdown or hesitation.
Includes various miscellaneous issues such as rear glass fracturing, car seat strap loosening, and general vehicle malfunctions not fitting other categories.
Issues related to the engine's power delivery, including jerking, hesitation, and potential locking of wheels.
Problems with the infotainment system going dark, radio audio failure, and battery issues potentially linked to telematics unit concerns.
General power train issues, including a reported 'trailing link shaft' breaking at low mileage.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2021 Mazda Cx-5
Is the 2021 Mazda CX-5 safe?
Based on NHTSA data, the 2021 Mazda CX-5 received excellent crash test ratings (5-star overall, frontal, and side; 4-star rollover). However, it has accumulated 130 complaints, with a significant number (54) related to engine issues like excessive oil consumption and leaks, and some concerning reports of unintended acceleration or airbag malfunctions, which could impact real-world safety.
What are common problems with the 2021 Mazda CX-5?
The most reported issues for the 2021 Mazda CX-5 are related to the ENGINE (54 complaints), primarily concerning excessive oil consumption, low oil warnings, and oil leaks. Other common problems include infotainment system malfunctions, tire issues (cracking, bubbles, pressure loss), and some reports of unintended acceleration or airbag deployment without cause.
Are there any recalls for the 2021 Mazda CX-5?
According to the provided NHTSA data, there are currently no open recalls for the 2021 Mazda CX-5. However, some complaints mention a 'Mazda recall code: P250F' for low engine oil level and a 'Dealer Rework 41 telematics communication unit concern,' suggesting some issues may be addressed via service bulletins or internal campaigns rather than public recalls.
How does the 2021 Mazda CX-5 perform in crash tests?
The 2021 Mazda CX-5 performs exceptionally well in crash tests, earning a 5-star overall safety rating from NHTSA. It received 5 stars for both frontal and side crash tests, and 4 stars for rollover resistance.
What should I look out for if buying a used 2021 Mazda CX-5?
If considering a used 2021 Mazda CX-5, pay close attention to the engine's oil consumption history. Request service records to check for frequent oil top-offs, low oil warnings, or repairs related to oil leaks. Also, test the infotainment system thoroughly for functionality and check the tires for any signs of cracking or unusual wear.
Buyer Advice
Our recommendation: While the 2021 Mazda CX-5 offers excellent crash safety, potential buyers should be aware of the prevalent engine oil consumption issues and thoroughly investigate the vehicle's service history for oil-related repairs or frequent top-offs before purchase.
NHTSA Data Summary for 2021 Mazda Cx-5
This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2021 Mazda Cx-5. The data includes 130 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 0 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 8 reported crashes, 7 reported injuries, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.
The NHTSA has assigned the 2021 Mazda Cx-5 an overall safety rating of 5 out of 5 stars, with a frontal crash rating of 5 stars, a side crash rating of 5 stars, and a rollover rating of 4 stars. These ratings are determined through controlled crash testing conducted by the NHTSA.
All data presented in this report is sourced from public NHTSA databases. Our AI analysis identifies patterns across complaint narratives, correlates them with recall history, and produces the safety assessment above. This analysis is updated as new complaints and recalls are filed with the NHTSA.
Consumers are encouraged to report vehicle safety problems to the NHTSA at nhtsa.gov. If your vehicle is subject to a recall, contact your dealer to schedule the free repair.