The vehicle exhibits a repeatable low-speed driveline-related problem consisting of pronounced clicking or clunking from the driver-front area, fore-and-aft jerking, and harsh engagement during deceleration and light on/off-throttle transitions, particularly around 15–17 mph; the behavior can become significantly worse over rough or uneven terrain. The exact failed component or system has not yet been identified. The vehicle is still essentially new, with fewer than 5,000 miles, and has not yet reached its first scheduled service interval, so it has not yet been formally inspected for this condition. No warning lamp or diagnostic message has appeared. Other owners online have described a similar low-speed clunking and jerking phenomenon, and Mazda has issued at least one prior transmission-related TSB addressing somewhat similar harsh shift behavior, although that bulletin does not appear to apply to this vehicle or this exact symptom. The vehicle is available for inspection upon request. The concern presents a potential safety risk because the vehicle can unexpectedly jerk, lurch, or abruptly change driveline load during ordinary low-speed driving, which can make accelerator response and vehicle speed less predictable in traffic, parking lots, intersections, or on uneven surfaces. The symptoms began within the first few thousand miles and remain repeatable.
NHTSA complaint #11758883 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The contact owns a 2018 Mazda CX-5. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the vehicle was leaking engine oil, and there was white smoke coming from underneath the hood. The contact stated that upon further inspection, there was a puddle of engine oil on the ground while the vehicle was idling. No warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was towed to a local dealer, where it was diagnosed with a cracked cylinder head. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 183,540.
NHTSA complaint #11758021 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
This is a follow-up to my complaint 11754947, filed 8/5/2026 on the same vehicle. The defect has now been confirmed in writing by an authorized Mazda dealer. On 8/6/2026, San Francisco Mazda (repair order 1085786) diagnosed the cylinder head as the source of the engine oil leak on my 2019 CX-5 with the 2.5L naturally aspirated SkyActiv-G engine with cylinder deactivation, engine code PYUD. The dealer inspection report states: "CYLINDER HEAD LEAKING — FOUND THE CYLINDER TO BE THE SOURCE OF THE OIL LEAK." The repair estimate is $10,655.34, including a replacement cylinder head assembly, cylinder head bolts, and four gasket kits. Mileage at diagnosis was 51,483, approximately 7,000 miles per year, dealer-maintained since new. The technician inspection video shows engine oil actively dripping onto components below, and extensive burnt oil residue baked onto the metal surfaces above the engine. That residue is physical confirmation that leaking oil has been contacting hot surfaces repeatedly over an extended period. Still images from the dealer's own inspection video are attached. A burning oil odor is detectable both outside the vehicle and inside the cabin. Timeline. In April 2026 I found oil accumulating beneath the vehicle. On 5/18/2026 the same dealer (repair order 1079428) noted oil leaking from the cylinder head gasket area and from a plug near the firewall. The dealership replaced the valve cover, charged $1,218.26, and instructed me to drive 1,000 miles and return for reinspection. I drove 1,077 miles as instructed. During that period the leak persisted and progressed, developing the burning odor. On 8/6/2026 the same dealership confirmed the cylinder head as the source and confirmed the plug is not the source. I want to emphasize the safety implication of that sequence. An authorized Mazda dealer misidentified the source of an oil leak and instructed me to continue driving the vehicle for 1,000 miles. The oil was in fact reaching hot exhaust components duri
NHTSA complaint #11755382 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
My 2019 Mazda CX-5 with the 2.5L naturally aspirated SkyActiv-G engine with cylinder deactivation has developed a significant engine oil leak at the front of the engine, accompanied by a strong burning oil odor detectable both outside and inside the cabin. Mileage is approximately 50,000, averaging about 7,000 miles per year with all maintenance performed on schedule. The burning odor indicates engine oil is contacting hot exhaust components, creating a fire hazard. I have stopped driving the vehicle. I have taken the vehicle to two authorized Mazda dealers for this identical issue. One was unable to locate the source of the leak. The other quoted approximately $10,000 without providing a written diagnosis identifying the failed component. The vehicle is scheduled for a third dealer diagnosis on August 6, 2026. More than two weeks of dealer possession across two visits produced no identified cause. Mazda has acknowledged cylinder head cracking in this engine family. CSP11 extends powertrain warranty coverage to 10 years/120,000 miles for cylinder head repairs on the 2.5T turbo engine, and TSB 01-002/23 addresses cylinder head leaks. Mazda also revised the cylinder head casting for the 2021 model year. However, owners of naturally aspirated 2.5L vehicles with the same casting failure have been denied coverage on the grounds that the leak involves oil rather than coolant, or that their VIN falls outside the covered range. I request that NHTSA investigate cylinder head cracking in naturally aspirated 2.5L SkyActiv-G engines in 2018–2020 Mazda CX-5 vehicles. Numerous complaints describe the same pattern: oil leaking onto the exhaust manifold, burning odor and smoke, fumes entering the cabin, and failures at low mileage. This presents a risk of engine compartment fire and of sudden stalling from loss of oil pressure. The affected population appears substantially larger than the vehicles currently covered.
NHTSA complaint #11754947 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
I own a 2019 Mazda CX-5 AWD equipped with the 2.5L naturally aspirated SKYACTIV-G engine with cylinder deactivation. At approximately 70,491 miles, the vehicle began leaking and burning engine oil, accompanied by a strong burning-oil odor and visible white smoke from the engine bay. This began on or around 7/15/2026 I took the vehicle to an authorized Mazda dealer, which confirmed that the cylinder head is cracked and leaking engine oil. I was quoted approximately $10,000 to repair. The repair is not covered because the vehicle is just outside the factory warranty. I received regular Mazda dealership maintenance through 52,000 miles, then regular 3rd party shops after. The oil is leaking onto/near the exhaust manifold. Oil contacting the hot exhaust creates a serious fire hazard, which I can detect from the burning-oil odor and smoke. Separately, ongoing oil loss risks sudden engine failure or stalling while driving, which could cause a loss of motive power and a crash, especially at highway speed or in traffic. This appears to be a widespread manufacturing defect. Many owners of 2018–2021 Mazda CX-5, and related Mazda3 and Mazda6 vehicles equipped with the 2.5L naturally aspirated engine with cylinder deactivation, have reported the identical failure — cylinder head cracking near the exhaust manifold causing an oil leak — frequently at low mileage. Mazda issued an internal service alert (SA-058/20) addressing cylinder head cracking on these engines, which shows the manufacturer is aware of the defect. Despite this, affected non-turbo owners are being denied repair assistance and are paying thousands of dollars out of pocket to fix a defect that presents a fire and crash risk. No crash, fire, or injury has occurred. I am reporting this because the defect is safety-related, appears to affect a large number of identically built vehicles, and warrants investigation and a potential recall to protect owners — especially those outside the warranty period.
NHTSA complaint #11753878 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The vehicle developed an engine oil leak from the timing cover due to what appears to be premature seal failure. Engine oil was leaking externally and could drip onto hot engine components, creating a potential fire hazard while the vehicle is in operation. The leak also increases the risk of low engine oil levels, which could lead to engine damage or sudden engine failure if not detected in time. This issue required an expensive repair despite the vehicle being properly maintained. I have since learned that many other Mazda owners have reported similar timing cover oil leaks on this engine, suggesting this may be a widespread defect rather than normal wear and tear. I am submitting this complaint so NHTSA can evaluate whether this represents a safety-related defect that warrants further investigation.
NHTSA complaint #11753162 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The contact owns a 2018 Mazda CX-5. The contact stated that while his wife was driving at an undisclosed speed, there was smoke coming from under the hood. No warning light was illuminated. The contact's wife pulled over and discovered that there was oil leaking onto the ground. The vehicle was towed to the dealer, who determined that the #5 and #7 cylinder heads were cracked and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 100,000.
NHTSA complaint #11752421 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
I am writing to formally document a significant engine failure on my 2018 Mazda CX-5 Grand Touring (VIN: [XXX], License: [XXX], Odometer: 78,159 miles). The vehicle began exhibiting visible smoke from under the hood and severe oil leakage — oil was actively pooling beneath the car and leaving a trail. Upon inspection by Cal West Auto Center (San Marcos, CA), the vehicle was diagnosed with a leaking cylinder head gasket requiring full cylinder head removal and replacement. I am aware that Mazda issued Technical Service Bulletin TSB #SA-031-21 specifically addressing a cylinder head casting defect in 2018–2019 CX-5 models equipped with the 2.5L Skyactiv-G engine with cylinder deactivation — the exact configuration of my vehicle. This is a documented manufacturing defect, not normal wear and tear, and the repair estimate I have received is $4,800.84. Given that this failure is tied to a known defect acknowledged by Mazda, I am requesting that Mazda Motor America cover the cost of this repair in full, or provide a clear explanation of what goodwill or warranty coverage is available to me. I am happy to provide the repair estimate, vehicle documentation, and any additional information needed to process this request promptly. Thank you for your attention to this matter. I look forward to your response. [XXX] Cell: [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
NHTSA complaint #11752039 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The cylinder head has cracked and is leaking externally. The engine oil that is leaking out is leaking directly onto the hot exhaust manifold. This can place us as risk due to the engine oil getting ignited by the hot exhaust manifold. There were no warning lamps that came on but there was a smell of burning oil that all of a sudden came up through the vents. This vehicle is currently at Woodhouse Mazda in Bellevue, NE and they have confirmed that the leak is active and has damaged the engine beyond repair.
NHTSA complaint #11751895 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
I am the owner of a 2019 Mazda CX-5 with approximately 50,000 miles. I am experiencing an active engine oil leak accompanied by a burning smell and visible smoke from the engine compartment. This is consistent with a cracked cylinder head assembly — a known manufacturing defect in 2018–2021 Mazda CX-5 vehicles documented in Mazda's own Service Alert SA-031/21, which Mazda characterizes as a fire hazard. Despite this, Mazda has extended warranty coverage only to turbo-equipped models (Program CSP11), leaving non-turbo owners with the identical defect unprotected. At only 50,000 miles, this is a premature failure caused by a manufacturing defect — not normal wear and tear. Oil leaking onto a hot exhaust manifold constitutes a serious fire risk to vehicle occupants and the public. I am requesting that NHTSA investigate this pattern of failure across 2018–2021 Mazda CX-5 non-turbo models and consider whether a formal recall is warranted. I have contacted Mazda North American Operations directly requesting goodwill warranty coverage and have a case number on file. I have yet to hear a response but was initially informed my car was out of warranty.
NHTSA complaint #11749139 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The contact owns a 2018 Mazda CX-5. The contact stated that white smoke was coming from the engine compartment whenever the vehicle reached normal operating temperature. The contact stated that smoke entered the passenger’s side compartment through the air vents and was coming from underneath the hood. The contact stated that there was a burning odor coming from the engine compartment due to an oil leakage. The smoke impaired visibility while driving. The most recent failure had occurred while driving approximately 35 MPH on a city roadway. The vehicle was driven to an independent mechanic to be diagnosed, and then to the dealer for further inspection. The independent mechanic diagnosed the vehicle with a cracked cylinder head and recommended that the vehicle be taken to the dealer for additional diagnostic tests. The dealer diagnosed the cylinder head as porous and informed the contact that the cylinder head needed to be replaced. The manufacturer was notified and informed the contact that the repair would not be covered. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact stated that the failure had occurred intermittently and became more frequent and severe during hotter weather. The failure mileage was approximately 83,000.
NHTSA complaint #11747961 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The vehicle experienced a sudden and complete engine stall while idling immediately after fueling the gas tank to capacity on a day with high ambient temperatures (over 100°F). Leading up to the stall, the vehicle was subjected to temporary auxiliary loads (Max AC running and active steering input). Immediately following the stall, the vehicle exhibited a hard-start condition and would not catch fire. After sitting turned off for several minutes, the vehicle restarted normally. The incident left no Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) or Check Engine Lights. Independent of this event, the vehicle intermittently exhibits a raw gasoline vapor smell inside the cabin at idle, alongside slight hesitations during low-speed steering maneuvers. This presents a safety hazard due to unexpected loss of motive power immediately after refueling in high-traffic gas station environments.
NHTSA complaint #11748088 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Check Engine Light Code P0524 - Low Oil Pressure. Everything check out fine. Checked all the suggested TSB (Technical Service Bulletin) possibilities from a respected and qualified service center. Cleared the code and it keeps coming back on.
NHTSA complaint #11746636 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Cylinder Head has failed at 53,000 miles. Mazda has a technical service bulletin acknowledging that this is a common occurrence with this part. They have an extended warranty for the turbo engine but not for the standard engine. Looking through online forums, there are hundreds of not thousands of these issues for this model year and engine. Mazda has clearly acknowledged there is an issue and should repair these manufacturing defects that are not normal wear and tear items.
NHTSA complaint #11745274 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
I am submitting this complaint regarding a cylinder head failure on my Mazda CX-5. The vehicle has approximately 53,000 miles and has been properly maintained throughout its service life. The vehicle developed a crack in the cylinder head, which was subsequently confirmed by an authorized Mazda dealership. Mazda has previously issued a Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) addressing cylinder head cracking on certain vehicles; however, my vehicle's VIN is not included in the covered range despite experiencing the same failure described in the TSB. The dealership initially provided a repair estimate of $8,789 plus tax to replace the cylinder head. Following further discussions, the dealership reduced the repair cost to $3,903 plus tax. They recognize that this crack is not part of normal wear and tear but due to the VIN number not being included in the recall are unable to provide full coverage. A cylinder head crack is a major engine failure that should not occur on a well-maintained vehicle with only 53,000 miles. I am concerned that vehicles outside the VIN range identified in Mazda's TSB may be experiencing the same defect and that the scope of the issue may be broader than currently recognized. The vehicle was purchased used from the same Mazda dealership that diagnosed the failure and is currently performing the repair evaluation. I respectfully request that NHTSA review this issue to determine whether additional Mazda CX-5 vehicles may be affected by the same cylinder head defect despite not being included in the existing TSB.
NHTSA complaint #11744861 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The engine has an oil leak from the head. It is a common problem with this year and make. It is a manufacturer's defect called a porous head where oil leaks through the casting not a seal. I've already spent $2000 to repair but still leaks. Oil leaks onto the exhaust and smokes causing fumes in the inside of the car and can be a fire hazard. Mazda is well aware of the problem but has yet to address it.
NHTSA complaint #11744167 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
We began occasionally smelling an acrid smell, but didn't think much of it due to lack of visible leaks or warning lights. During a routine oil change at the mazda dealer, we asked about the smell, and the tech almost immediately found the issue, saying he had seen it a few times before. The oil is leaking from the head down onto the manifold due to what seems to be a recurring defective casting issue. quote from mazda dealer service department "During the vehicle's inspection, found oil leaking from the engine. A further inspection found the oil to be leaking from behind the cylinder head near the exhaust manifold. oil is leaking through the casting of the cylinder head it appears. will recommend replacing the cylinder head due to the oil leak."
NHTSA complaint #11743725 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Cylinder block cracked on back side of engine. This crack leaks oil onto the exhaust manifold. Condition Confirmed by Mazda dealer. Oil burns on the exhaust filling the cabin with smoke impairing the driver. Also a high risk of combustion in the engine compartment Inspection report and pictures available. No sign or warning of issue. Crack happened on a daily drive to work. No engine lights noise or smell until head suddenly cracked causing a large oil leak. Mazda has an internal TSB 01-002/23 admitting that these cars in this year range have a manufacturer defect in the block
NHTSA complaint #11742857 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
On May 11th I was driving my 2019 Mazda CX-5 with approximately 35,000 miles when my cabin filled with the smell of gasoline. The smell became overwhelming within minutes, causing concern for my safety and the safety of other drivers. I immediately drove to the closest auto repair/body shop for an emergency inspection. Upon inspection, the technicians discovered there was a "crack at rear cylinder head and leaking oil excessively. Oil is leaking on to hot exhaust manifold....car is not safe to drive since oil leak is excessive". I was advised that this must be a manufacturer defect as you should not see this issue at such low mileage. The vehicle was then towed to the nearest Mazda dealership/service center, where a cracked rear cylinder head was diagnosed and confirmed. I was informed that continued operation of the vehicle could have resulted in catastrophic engine failure, engine seizure, fire risk from leaking oil contacting hot engine components, or sudden loss of power while driving, creating an extremely dangerous driving situation. Prior to the failure, there were no major warning indicators other than the sudden strong fuel/oil smell. The issue occurred unexpectedly despite the vehicle being properly maintained and having low mileage for a major engine failure. I have been the sole owner. The vehicle is currently available for inspection upon request.
NHTSA complaint #11743039 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
On May 21st , 2026, while waiting in line to make a right turn (positioned 3rd in queue), the vehicles ahead moved forward. As I transitioned from the brake to the gas pedal to follow, the vehicle experienced an instantaneous engine stall and total electrical failure (NOT an i-Stop event). Pressing the gas caused the vehicle to slowly roll backward. When I immediately tried to reapply the brakes, the brake pedal became extremely stiff and nearly impossible to press down, failing to hold the vehicle effectively. The driver behind me began honking aggressively due to the imminent collision risk. I attempted to lower the windows to signal the other driver, but all electronic controls were completely dead. I had to quickly shift the gear into Park (P) and hit the start button to successfully restart the engine, which temporarily restored functions.
NHTSA complaint #11742466 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.