Quick Facts — Mazda CX-5 (MK1)

Est. On UK Roads
65,000+
Years Made
2012–2017
Common Engines
2.0 Skyactiv-G, 2.2 Skyactiv-D 150ps, 2.2 Skyactiv-D 175ps

6 Most Common Mazda CX-5 (MK1) Problems

These are the faults most frequently seen on the Mazda CX-5 (MK1) by UK garages — ranked by how commonly they occur and what they cost to fix.

1
DPF Blockage (2.2 Skyactiv-D)
High Priority
The diesel MK1 CX-5 develops DPF blockages on short journey use. This is the most common workshop visit on used diesel MK1 examples.
💷 Typical repair cost: £100–£1,200
2
Front Lower Arm Bushes (Wear)
High Priority
Front lower control arm bushes wear on higher mileage MK1 CX-5s — causing a knock or pull under braking. A known wear item.
💷 Typical repair cost: £120–£350
3
EGR Valve Carbon Buildup (Skyactiv-D)
Watch
High-mileage diesel MK1 CX-5s develop EGR fouling causing rough running and EML.
💷 Typical repair cost: £150–£500
4
Air Con Compressor Failure (Older Examples)
Watch
Air conditioning compressor failure is seen on older MK1 CX-5 models.
💷 Typical repair cost: £250–£600
5
Rear Brake Pad and Disc Wear
Low Priority
The MK1 CX-5's rear brakes are relatively lightly worked and can develop surface corrosion on cars used infrequently.
💷 Typical repair cost: £80–£250
6
Electric Tailgate Strut Failure
Low Priority
The powered tailgate struts can weaken on older MK1 examples — the tailgate doesn't stay fully open.
💷 Typical repair cost: £50–£200

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Mazda CX-5 (MK1) — MOT Tips

DPF warning is an automatic fail on diesel models. Inspect front lower arm bushes — a common MOT advisory on higher mileage MK1 CX-5s. EML is an automatic fail. Check all lights and wipers. Rear brake corrosion can cause judder on the MOT brake test.

Engine management light on before your MOT? It's an automatic fail. Run a Find Your Problem Now → to get the likely cause and repair cost before booking the test.

Mazda CX-5 (MK1) Tyres

Most Mazda CX-5 (MK1) models run 225/65 R17 or 225/55 R19 depending on trim level and year. Always check the placard inside the driver's door for the exact size for your vehicle.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the most common problem with the Mazda CX-5 (MK1)?

The most frequently reported issue on the Mazda CX-5 (MK1) is DPF Blockage (2.2 Skyactiv-D). The diesel MK1 CX-5 develops DPF blockages on short journey use. This is the most common workshop visit on used diesel MK1 examples.

How many Mazda CX-5 (MK1)s are on UK roads?

There are an estimated 65,000+ Mazda CX-5 (MK1)s currently on UK roads.

What tyres does the Mazda CX-5 (MK1) use?

Most Mazda CX-5 (MK1) models run 225/65 R17 or 225/55 R19 depending on trim level and year. Always check the placard inside the driver's door for the exact size for your vehicle.

Will a warning light fail my Mazda CX-5 (MK1)'s MOT?

DPF warning is an automatic fail on diesel models. Inspect front lower arm bushes — a common MOT advisory on higher mileage MK1 CX-5s. EML is an automatic fail. Check all lights and wipers. Rear brake corrosion can cause judder on the MOT brake test.

Similar Issues on Other Models

Hyundai Tucson — shares the same DPF blockage problem Kia Sportage — also commonly develops DPF blockage

Summary

The MK1 CX-5 is a genuinely excellent used SUV — reliable, well-built and very practical. The 2.0 Skyactiv-G petrol is the most dependable and lowest-risk powertrain. Diesel examples need careful DPF history checking. Front lower arm bushes are the most common wear item to budget for.

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Other Mazda Models

Mazda 3 → Mazda 6 → Mazda CX-5 → Mazda CX-30 →