Mazda CX-5 KF
Weaknesses, engine ratings and buying advice
The CX-5 KF (2017–2024) is the driver's choice compact SUV — better interior quality and handling than most rivals. But 2018–2021 models carry two hidden defects that can cost $3,500–11,000 each.
Engine hierarchy: The PE-VPS (2.0 SkyActiv-G, 121 kW) is the base petrol — direct injection with carbon buildup on intake valves from 80,000 km (walnut blasting $350–550). Oil pressure valve and hydraulic lifters as wear items from 100,000 km. Overall solid and long-lasting.
The PY-VPS (2.5 SkyActiv-G, 143 kW) is the main engine. Critical: cylinder deactivation on 2018–2021 models — faulty PCM logic causes rocker arm displacement, metal-on-metal contact, worst case cylinder head cracks with oil leaking onto manifold (fire risk). Onset from 30,000 km. Mazda recall for PCM reprogram on 2018–2019, but no full recall for the NA engine. 2022+ models deleted cylinder deactivation entirely — problem solved. Turbo variant (2019–2021): thermal cracks at exhaust stud bolt holes, coolant disappears with no puddle. Mazda CSP11 extends warranty to 10 years/120,000 miles.
Diesel: The SH-VPTS (2.2 SkyActiv-D, 110–135 kW) is the long-distance engine. Camshaft wear is the expensive topic (severity 5) — shavings in oil system with poor maintenance. Fuel dilution on short trips, DPF clogs, EGR carbons up. Injector seals wear from 80,000 km. Oil changes strictly every 10,000 km.
AWD models: rear differential failure — sliding bearing seizes, pinion shaft cracks housing. From 120,000 km, repair $2,000–9,000. Change diff fluid every 50,000 km (Mazda says "lifetime" — this is wrong).
Test-drive checklist: Cold-start rough idle on 2018–2021 petrol (rocker issue), sweet coolant smell after shutdown on turbo (head crack), vibration at 30–80 km/h on AWD (differential).
2026 market: 2018 from $13,000–20,000. 2022+ $22,000–29,500 (sweet spot). Insider pick: 2022+ PE-VPS or PY-VPS without cylinder deactivation — both head problems solved. Check VIN at Mazda dealer for open CSPs before buying.
194 PS
CX-5 · Benzin
Strongest KF Petrol — Very Convincing
Fun to Drive!120–165 PS
2.0L SkyActiv-G Benzin
6 weaknesses
Good Choice150–184 PS
2.2L SkyActiv-D Diesel
7 weaknesses
Stay Away!Generations
Engine Overview
The Mazda CX-5 KF is available with 3 engine variants — from 120 to 194 hp.
2.2-litre SkyActiv-D with extremely low compression ratio (14:1) for a diesel. Clean combustion without a NOx storage catalytic converter, long-lived with regular oil changes.
- !! Camshaft Seized from 80,000 km
Insufficient surface hardening of the exhaust camshaft leads to heavy wear with metal particles in the oil. Secondary damage to the vacuum pump and turbocharger is possible. Primarily affects build years 2012–2015.
Symptoms: Warning 'Low oil pressure – engine damage possible', fault code P0056F, jerky gearbox, metal particles visible in oil on change. - !! Severe Oil Dilution from Fuel Ingress from 30,000 km
DPF regeneration injects fuel into the cylinder, which passes the piston and enters the oil. Dilution rates of up to 20–25% are possible. Increased engine wear and turbocharger bearing damage can follow.
Symptoms: Oil level rises above MAX mark, fuel smell in oil, onboard computer shortens oil change interval, up to 20% diesel detectable in oil analysis. - !! Leaking Injector Seals from 100,000 km
Failed flame protection seals on the injectors allow hot combustion gases into the oil system. The oil cokes up and blocks the oil sump strainer, leading to pressure loss and engine damage.
Symptoms: Rapidly ageing oil with fuel smell, elevated oil consumption, engine oil warning light, in severe cases oil pressure loss and piston damage.
+ 4 more engine weaknesses + vehicle weaknesses
2.0-litre SkyActiv-G with 13:1 compression ratio and chain drive. Core engine of the SkyActiv fleet with a wide power range from 88 to 121 kW.
- !! Carbon build-up on intake valves from 110,000 km
Direct-injection carbon build-up on intake valves from crankcase breather oil mist. Typically occurs between 100,000–160,000 km. Walnut blasting is the only lasting solution.
Symptoms: Rough cold start with misfire codes P0300–P0304, sluggish throttle response, increased fuel consumption - !! Low oil pressure — oil pump pressure relief valve from 80,000 km
Particularly on early build years 2012–2014, contamination in the oil pump pressure relief valve can reduce oil pressure. Persistently low oil pressure accelerates bearing wear considerably.
Symptoms: Oil pressure warning light illuminates, knocking noises from the engine, increased engine noise at low revs - ! Defective coolant control valve (thermostat)
A manufacturing deviation in the electric coolant control valve allows coolant to enter the dry chamber. The valve opens too early. TSI R054-21 affects all SkyActiv-G engines.
Symptoms: Extended warm-up phase, blue coolant warning light, poor heater output at idle
+ 3 more engine weaknesses + vehicle weaknesses
2.5-litre SkyActiv-G naturally aspirated engine with cylinder deactivation from 2018. Top of the naturally aspirated range with strong pull.
- !! Cylinder Head Crack (Exhaust Side) from 60,000 km
Micro-cracks form on the exhaust side of the cylinder head due to thermal stress. Primarily affects 2019–2020 CX-5 and Mazda6. Mazda extended the warranty to 10 years/120,000 miles. Revised head design from 2021.
Symptoms: Sweet coolant smell after shutdown, dropping coolant level with no visible puddle, steam from engine bay - !! Recall: Cylinder Deactivation Valve Lash Adjuster
PCM software incorrectly controls hydraulic valve lash adjusters during the transition out of cylinder deactivation. Intake valve rocker arm can contact engine components. CX-5 KF 2017–2019, approx. 58,000 vehicles in Europe.
Symptoms: Misfires, power loss, rough running when upshifting out of cylinder deactivation - !! Fuel Pump Impeller Fracture
Recall for 2019–2020 CX-5: the low-pressure fuel pump impeller can fail due to cracking. Mazda notified owners in November 2021. Engine stall possible.
Symptoms: Engine won't start, power loss, irregular engine running, engine warning light
+ 3 more engine weaknesses + vehicle weaknesses
Vehicle Weaknesses
| Weakness | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Power Mirror Folding Motor Faulty The gear in the electric exterior mirror folding mechanism breaks. The problem has been known since the KE generation. Failure occurs especially after high-pressure washing or car washes. Repair requires complete mirror replacement. Symptoms: Mirror no longer folds in or out, motor noise without movement, manual folding required from 60,000 km | Low | |
| LED Headlights Condensing Inside On KF models from 2019 onward, moisture enters the LED headlights, particularly on the passenger side. This leads to condensation inside the headlights and failure of the lighting unit. Goodwill repair may be available from Mazda. Symptoms: Headlight misted up inside, sidelight or daytime running light failing, progressively weaker headlight output | Medium | |
| Battery as Most Frequent Cause of Breakdown On the KF too, the battery is the most frequent cause of breakdown according to ADAC statistics. In short-trip or stop-start operation the battery does not recharge sufficiently. Replacement interval approximately 4–5 years. Symptoms: Vehicle won't start, sluggish starter motor, on-board system errors after voltage drop | Low |
Test Reports
TÜV Report 2026
The current CX-5 KF shows almost no suspension issues and scores significantly better than its predecessor. Brake discs remain a recurring note.
2025-11ADAC Breakdown Statistics 2025
The CX-5 KF continues its predecessor's strong breakdown record and ranks among the best in its segment.
2025-04Top Reported Issues
Alternatives
Alfa Romeo Tonale 965
Compact SUV (2022–2024)
BMW X1 U11
Compact SUV (2022–2026)
BMW iX1 U11
Compact SUV (2022–2026)
Genesis GV70 JK1
Compact SUV (2022–2025)
Kia Niro SG2
Compact SUV (2022–2024)
Lexus NX AZ20
Compact SUV (2022–2025)
Explore more
Known Problems and Issues +
A total of 25 weaknesses have been documented for the Mazda CX-5 KF (2017–2024) — 19 engine-related and 6 vehicle-related. 2 problem engines: PY-VPS (2.5L SkyActiv-G), SH-VPTS (2.2L SkyActiv-D). Typical issues affect Electronics, Brakes, Other, Suspension. Considered reliable: PE-VPS (2.0L SkyActiv-G).
CX-5 (SH-VPTS, 2017–2024) — Stay Away!: Camshaft Seized, Severe Oil Dilution from Fuel Ingress, Leaking Injector Seals. Power: 150 PS.
CX-5 (SH-VPTS, 2017–2018) — Stay Away!: Camshaft Seized, Severe Oil Dilution from Fuel Ingress, Leaking Injector Seals. Power: 175 PS.
CX-5 (SH-VPTS, 2018–2024) — Stay Away!: Camshaft Seized, Severe Oil Dilution from Fuel Ingress, Leaking Injector Seals. Power: 184 PS.
CX-5 (PY-VPS, 2017–2024) — Stay Away!: Cylinder Head Crack (Exhaust Side), Recall: Cylinder Deactivation Valve Lash Adjuster, Fuel Pump Impeller Fracture. Power: 192–194 PS.
What to watch out for with the Mazda CX-5? See the detailed listing of all engine and vehicle weaknesses in the sections above.
Frequently Asked Questions
What problems and weaknesses does the Mazda CX-5 KF have? +
What should I look for when buying a used Mazda CX-5 KF? +
Which engine is recommended? +
Which Mazda CX-5 KF engine is the most reliable? +
Which Mazda CX-5 KF engine is the most fun? +
Is the Mazda CX-5 KF worth buying used? +
What horsepower variants are available for the Mazda CX-5 KF? +
Last updated: February 2026 · All information without guarantee