CarRecallWatchThe 2018 Mazda CX-5 has 3 safety recalls on file with NHTSA.
Owners have filed 353 complaints with NHTSA, including 19 crashes, 1 fire, 6 injuries.
The most-reported problem area is Engine (181 reports).
2018 Mazda CX-5 recalls
Fuel Pump Can Fail and Stall the Engine
The low-pressure fuel pump inside these vehicles may have an impeller that cracks and deforms.
Engine May Stall Unexpectedly, Raising Crash Risk
A software error in the powertrain control module (PCM) can cause the engine to stall without warning.
Side curtain airbags may not deploy properly in a crash
Side curtain airbags in certain vehicles may not properly unfold when deployed during a side impact or rollover crash.
Most common 2018 Mazda CX-5 problems
Problem areas named in the 353 complaints owners filed with NHTSA.
| Problem area | Reports |
|---|---|
| Engine | 181 |
| Unknown Or Other | 58 |
| Power Train | 42 |
| Service Brakes | 32 |
| Electrical System | 29 |
| Fuel/Propulsion System | 20 |
| Fuel System, Gasoline | 19 |
| Forward Collision Avoidance | 16 |
| Vehicle Speed Control | 13 |
| Structure | 12 |
What owners report
My 2018 Mazda CX-5 Touring (2.5L non-turbo engine with cylinder deactivation) developed a burning oil smell that steadily worsened over several days. On XXX, at about 61,300 miles, I saw smoke coming from the engine compartment after driving. The engine had not overheated, and the car was regularly maintained. On XXX, an independent repair shop (A&M Auto Repair, [XXX] a large active oil leak. After steam cleaning the engine and removing the exhaust manifold, they found engine oil leaking from a hairline crack in the cylinder head, directly onto the hot exhaust manifold. The engine was also about one quart low on oil. The shop recommended replacing the cylinder head assembly, at a cost of ab
2.5L Skyactive engine - burning smell accompanied by blue smoke from engine compartment. Yes, available for review on request. Unknown source of smoke and burning smell may be a potential complete engine damage risk. Yes, Mazda dealer confirmed leaking engine oil. No watling lamps / lights / telltales on cluster.
Cracked cylinder head- factory defect, causing oil to leak onto exhaust manifold. Smoke fills engine bay and cab through air vents, very high concern of engine bay fire. 2018 Mazda cx5 non turbo 2.5 sky active engine. Mazda knows of this defect and will not proved remedy.
There has been numerous report of the Mazda CX 5 having failure rear differential. I just purchased a 2018 Mazda CX five for my daughter in September 2026 I now am experiencing this issue on the rear diff. The dealer will not cover the repair since itâs as is purchase Mazda should take this as a recall and fix the vehicle for the safety of the consumer.
2018 Mazda CX-5 2.5L NA Engine Cracked cylinder head and blown head gasket with leaking oil onto exhaust manifold resulting in white smoke & burning oil smell. No engine light. Issue confirmed by dealer and independent shop. Commonly reported issue amongst 2018-2021 Mazda CX-5 owners either naturally aspirated engines.
2018 Mazda CX-5 questions
Does the 2018 Mazda CX-5 have any recalls?
Yes. NHTSA lists 3 safety recalls for the 2018 Mazda CX-5: Fuel Pump Can Fail and Stall the Engine; Engine May Stall Unexpectedly, Raising Crash Risk; Side curtain airbags may not deploy properly in a crash. Recall repairs are normally free at an authorized dealer.
What are the most common problems with the 2018 Mazda CX-5?
Based on 353 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, the most-reported problem areas are Engine (181), Unknown Or Other (58), Power Train (42).
How do I check if a recall on my 2018 Mazda CX-5 has been fixed?
Enter your 17-character VIN in our VIN recall check. It shows open recalls that have not been repaired on your specific vehicle. Recall repairs are normally free at an authorized dealer.