2021 Mazda CX-5: recalls and problems
No recalls and 147 owner complaints on file with NHTSA. The most-reported problem area is engine.
Recalls
NHTSA lists no recalls for the 2021 Mazda CX-5. Individual cars can still have open manufacturer campaigns, so check your VIN.
Check recalls for your exact VINMost common problems
What owners report
The contact owns a 2021 mazda cx-5. the contact stated that while driving 50 mph and the check engine warning light illuminated. the contact took the vehicle to an independent mechanic where an obdii scanner discovered a misfire in cylinder#1. the vehicle was then taken to another independent mechanic where the obdii scanner discovered a misfire in one of the engine cylinders and diagnosed the vehicle with an engine
Differential went and generated a cascading chain reaction destroying the coupler and breather and axles. car is undrivable. this. defect has a tsb
2021 mazda cx-5 2.5l non-turbo. while driving at approximately 8 mph, i removed my foot from the accelerator, but the vehicle unexpectedly accelerated on its own. i did not press the accelerator pedal. i had to apply the brake to slow the vehicle down. this issue has occurred three separate times, on august 25, september 4, and september 18, 2026, at approximately 70,060 miles. the same unintended acceleration behav
Twice while making left turns from a stop into faster cross traffic, the accelerator was pressed but the vehicle barely moved (coasting) for roughly 2 - 3 seconds, then suddenly accelerated normally, creating a near-collision risk as cross traffic quickly approached. no warning lights were observed on the dash.
Crash-test ratings
| Version | Overall | Frontal | Side | Rollover |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2021 Mazda CX-5 SUV AWD | ||||
| 2021 Mazda CX-5 SUV FWD |
Source: NHTSA recalls, complaints and NCAP APIs, covering CX-5. Last refreshed 2026-09-29.