There are no safety recalls for the 2021 Mazda CX-5, but owners have filed 150 complaints with NHTSA.
2021 Mazda CX-5 problems reported by owners
| Problem area | Reports | |
|---|
| Engine | 81 | |
| Unknown or Other | 17 | |
| Power Train | 17 | |
| Forward Collision Avoidance | 17 | |
| Electrical System | 14 | |
| Service Brakes | 12 | |
| Vehicle Speed Control | 8 | |
| Lane Departure | 7 | |
| Fuel/Propulsion System | 7 | |
| Air Bags | 5 | |
| Tires | 5 | |
| Visibility/Wiper | 4 | |
Most reported parts
- Forward Collision Avoidance › Automatic Emergency Braking — 9
- Forward Collision Avoidance › Warnings — 5
- Lane Departure › Blind Spot Detection — 4
- Forward Collision Avoidance › Adaptive Cruise Control — 3
- Structure › Body — 2
- Lane Departure › Warning — 2
- Tires › Sidewall — 2
- Tires › Tread/Belt — 2
Typical mileage at the time of the problem: 33,900 miles (median of owner reports).
Problems that are not covered by a recall are paid repairs; labor rates follow local mechanic pay — see what auto mechanics earn in each state.
Recent 2021 Mazda CX-5 complaints
Owner reports filed with NHTSA, as written (personal details removed). Complaints are not verified by NHTSA.
Exterior Lighting · reported Nov 4, 2026
[FIELD: DESCRIBE WHAT HAPPENED] Severe ongoing safety defects uncorrected after 2 dealer repair attempts ([XXX] & [XXX]). LIGHTS: High beams failed [XXX], requiring continuous manual hold to function. ADAS/HUD: HUD failed to project Nov 3. Cameras cut out with false "sensor blocked" error (Oct [XXX] & [XXX]. Infotainment screen turns off while driving (multiple dates). ENGINE: Stalls in traffic/drive-thrus and fails to restart. MIRROR: Power side mirror glass/folding intermittently does not fold out and glass does not move/adjust. Dealership reportedly ordered part during Sept [XXX] repair…
Service Brakes · reported Oct 31, 2026
During hard or emergency braking at higher speeds, the Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS) activates and pulsates normally for approximately 1 to 2 seconds, then abruptly fails and stops pumping. Immediately after the ABS cuts out, the wheels lock up completely, causing the vehicle to skid with loss of traction/stability control, reduced steering control, and extended stopping distances. At the exact moment the ABS stops pumping and the wheels lock, the dashboard displays a "Smart Brake System Malfunction" warning message and illuminates both the ABS warning light and the TCS/DSC (Traction Control…
Air Bags · at 50,000 miles · reported Oct 7, 2026
The contact owns a 2021 Mazda CX-5. The contact stated that while at a complete stop, the vehicle was rear-ended by another vehicle driving approximately 40 - 50 MPH. The contact stated that due to the crash, the driver's seat unexpectedly reclined, and the driver's head restraint detached and landed in the car seat in the rear seat. The contact also stated that the air bags failed to deploy during the crash. A Police report was filed. The contact was transported to a local emergency room and was treated for a fractured right fibula and whiplash. The vehicle was towed to a service center for…
Engine · at 124,000 miles · reported Sep 24, 2026
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 failure. The contact was then referred to the dealer who confirmed that there was a defect with cylinder#1. The dealer confirmed that the engine needed to be replaced. The…
Engine · reported Sep 23, 2026
Differential went and generated a cascading chain reaction destroying the coupler and breather and axles. Car is undrivable. This. Defect has a TSB
Frequently asked questions
Does the 2021 Mazda CX-5 have any recalls?
No. NHTSA has no safety recalls for the 2021 Mazda CX-5 as of this update. Check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls for the latest status.
What is the most common problem with the 2021 Mazda CX-5?
Owners report engine problems most often (81 reports), followed by unknown or other (17). The typical mileage when problems were reported is about 33,900 miles.
Are Mazda recall repairs free?
Yes. Safety recall repairs are free at authorized Mazda dealers, whether you are the first owner or bought the car used.