Pre-purchase inspection checklist — 2016 Mazda CX-5
The 2016 Mazda CX-5 has several recall campaigns and multiple owner complaints, indicating potential issues with exterior lighting, the fuel system, and the steering. However, the evidence is limited for some components, so while these aspects warrant careful inspection, they do not automatically rule out the vehicle as a sound purchase option.
NHTSA data on file today
The 2016 Mazda CX-5 has 5 NHTSA recall campaigns and 512 owner complaints on file as of . Recall data is refreshed daily from NHTSA.
NCAP overall rating: 4.0 out of 5 stars, averaged across 2 NHTSA-tested trims.
Recall campaigns on file
- NHTSA #20V063000 Daytime Running Lights May Fail NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #16V644000 Rear Lift Gate may Fall if Lift Gate Stays Corrode NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #16V203000 Insufficient Bolt Torque may Cause Steering Loss NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #16V064000 Fuel Filler Pipe may Rupture in a Crash/FMVSS 301 NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #16E002000 Windshield Bracket for Laser Sensor may Detach NHTSA notice
Most-cited components in owner complaints
- Exterior Lighting 161 complaints
- Electrical System 72 complaints
- Service Brakes 66 complaints
- Unknown or Other 57 complaints
- Power Train 51 complaints
- Visibility/Wiper 43 complaints
Of the 512 complaints on file, 31 report a crash and 10 a fire; across all 512 complaints, owners report 13 injuries (owner-reported, not verified by NHTSA).
Known issues to inspect
Daytime running lights fail
How to check: Inspect LED DRLs function while driving.
Fuel filler pipe may rupture
How to check: Check for recall service documentation.
Loose mounting nuts and bolts
How to check: Inspect steering for secure mounting.
Test-drive walkthrough
- 01
Cold start
What to check: Listen for unusual engine noises.
Red flag: Loud clanking or ticking sounds
- 02
First minute idling
What to check: Observe dashboard warning lights.
Red flag: Persistent warning lights
- 03
City driving
What to check: Check brake responsiveness and noise.
Red flag: Soft brake pedal or grinding noise
- 04
Highway acceleration
What to check: Ensure smooth transmission shifts.
Red flag: Jerky or delayed shifting
- 05
Highway driving
What to check: Monitor for steering vibrations.
Red flag: Significant vibrations or pull
- 06
City parking
What to check: Test all exterior lights for function.
Red flag: Non-working lights
- 07
Final inspection
What to check: Check for fuel or oil leaks.
Red flag: Visible leaks under the car
Questions for the seller
Use this exact phrasing.
- Has the fuel filler pipe recall been addressed?
- Have any steering issues occurred?
- Are all exterior lights fully functional?
- Have all recalls been serviced?
- Has the car been in any accidents?
Documents to request
Don't sign anything until you have these.
- Recent service records
- Recall repair receipts
- Title and registration
- Vehicle history report
- Warranty documentation
Generated by gpt-4o on from the NHTSA recall campaigns and owner-complaint counts on file for the 2016 Mazda CX-5 at the time. AI output can be wrong; confirm anything you find with a mechanic.
Next step
Looking at a specific 2016 Mazda CX-5? Check the actual car
This checklist covers the model. From your free try.vin dashboard you can go further — paste the seller's listing for a deal score, or drop their photos for an AI condition report.