REDLINE ALLEYMazda CX-5 KF (2017 to now): buying guide, problems and NZ numbers
The Mazda CX-5 KF has been built since 2017 as an SUV, with a manual or automatic gearbox, front wheel drive or all wheel drive and petrol or diesel power. Chassis codes: KFEP, KF2P and KF5P. Redline has a curated guide to its 6 most reported weak points, from owner club and specialist sources.
Key facts
- Years
- 2017 to now
- Chassis codes
- KFEP, KF2P, KF5P
- Body types
- SUV
- Gearboxes
- Manual, Automatic
- Drive
- FWD (front wheel drive), AWD (all wheel drive)
- Fuel
- Petrol, Diesel
On NZ roads
Counting every one on the NZ register. The first look can take up to 15 seconds.
Known weak points
Curated by Redline from owner club and specialist sources Commonly reported by owners and specialists for the Mazda CX-5 KF (2017 to present). Not every car has these; check this one.
Oil consumption
Low oil levels from high consumption, and owners not checking it, are a common fault found by an Australian inspection service.
- Where to look
- The dipstick, and the oil top up history
- How to test
- Check the oil level and ask how much it uses between services.
- Cost if it needs fixing
- Medium cost engine wear if it has been run low
Sources: carsales.com.au (opens in a new tab)
Diesel particulate filter and exhaust
Some diesel owners needed dealer visits for problems with the diesel particulate filter and exhaust system.
- Where to look
- The DPF warning light, and the dipstick on the 2.2 diesel
- How to test
- Watch for the DPF or engine light on the drive and check the oil level is not above the full mark.
- Cost if it needs fixing
- High cost DPF and exhaust repairs
Sources: whatcar.com (opens in a new tab)
Fuel pump recall
A 2021 recall replaced a fuel pump on 2017 to 2019 cars that could fail and stop the car.
- Where to look
- The recall record for the VIN
- How to test
- Ask a Mazda dealer to confirm the fuel pump recall is done.
- Cost if it needs fixing
- Low cost recall work is free at a Mazda dealer
Sources: carsales.com.au (opens in a new tab)
Underbody damage on AWD models
AWD versions sometimes get taken into real 4x4 terrain, which the CX-5 is not built for.
- Where to look
- The underbody, sills and exhaust
- How to test
- Look underneath with a torch for scrapes, dents and torn driveshaft boots.
- Cost if it needs fixing
- Medium cost depends on what is bent
Sources: carsales.com.au (opens in a new tab)
Powered tailgate and rear seat folding
What Car advises checking the powered tailgate and the rear seat folding mechanisms.
- Where to look
- The powered tailgate, where fitted, and the rear seat release levers
- How to test
- Open and close the tailgate from the key, the button and the switch, and fold and lift each rear seat.
- Cost if it needs fixing
- Medium cost tailgate motor or seat mechanism
Sources: whatcar.com (opens in a new tab)
Bodywork and alloy wheels
Most cars have had urban lives, so dents, scuffs and kerbed wheels are common.
- Where to look
- The bumpers, door edges and alloy wheel rims
- How to test
- Walk round the car in good light and look at every rim for kerb damage.
- Cost if it needs fixing
- Low cost paint and wheel repairs
Sources: whatcar.com (opens in a new tab)
General guidance from owner and specialist sources. Check the specific car with an independent inspection. Researched 4 November 2026.
What the cost bands mean
- Low: a small job. Typically a few hundred dollars or less at an NZ workshop, often a DIY fix.
- Medium: a proper workshop job. Typically several hundred to a couple of thousand dollars.
- High: a major job. Typically several thousand dollars or more, enough to change what the car is worth.
Questions to ask the seller
- Is it the 2.0, 2.5, 2.5 turbo or 2.2 diesel, and 2WD or AWD?
- Has the fuel pump recall been done?
- How much oil does it use between services?
- Has it been used off road?
US recalls
Looking up US recall data.
Mazda CX-5 · Every Mazda model · Every make · Open in Redline search