IsItAGoodCar
Reliability Guide

Common Problems with the
2013 Mazda 5 (CW)

By 2013 the CW Mazda 5 had established itself as an underrated MPV. The facelift brought minor updates while retaining the proven mechanicals and driver-focused character.

What changed for 2013

  • •Mid-cycle facelift with minor styling updates
  • •Improved interior materials and finish
  • •All known issues addressed
  • •Strong used values reflecting practicality

Common MOT watch-outs

  • !Rear suspension wear on heavier cars
  • !Sliding door motor issues
  • !Corrosion on UK road salt-exposed cars
3
Known Issues
1
Serious
1
Moderate
1
Minor

All Known Issues

1.6 Diesel DPF & Oil Dilution

SeriousEngine

The PSA-sourced diesel engine is prone to DPF blockages if used for short trips, which can lead to diesel contaminating the engine oil.

Est. Repair Cost: £300–£1,500
Warning Signs:

DPF warning light, Rising oil level, Limp mode

What to Inspect:
  • Check the service history for frequent oil changes
  • Verify the oil level is not above the maximum mark
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Rear Suspension Bush & Damper Wear

ModerateSuspension & Chassis

The Mazda 5 is heavy and tends to wear through its rear suspension components quickly, leading to poor handling and tyre wear.

Est. Repair Cost: £200–£500
Warning Signs:

Thumping or knocking from the rear, Uneven tyre wear, Vibration at speed

What to Inspect:
  • Inspect the inner edges of the rear tyres
  • Listen for suspension noise on the test drive
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Sliding Door Alignment & Motor Issues

MinorBodywork & Rust

Over time, the sliding doors can drop or become misaligned, causing wind noise or failure of the electric closing mechanism.

Est. Repair Cost: £100–£400
Warning Signs:

Door hard to close, Wind whistle at speed, Electric door reversing when closing

What to Inspect:
  • Ensure the doors sit flush with the body when closed
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Buying Tips for 2013 Mazda 5 (CW)

  • Check the rear tyres for "sawtooth" wear, indicating suspension alignment issues.
  • Test both sliding doors for smooth operation; electric versions are expensive to fix.
  • The 1.6 diesel needs high-quality oil and regular long trips to protect the DPF.
  • Inspect the rear suspension bushes and dampers; the Mazda 5 is heavier than it looks and wears through these quickly.
  • Check the boot floor and rear light seals for water ingress, a common issue on older examples.
  • Look for evidence of regular oil changes on diesel models—short intervals are critical for turbo longevity.
2011–20122014
Check a 2013 Mazda 5 (CW) by Registration