Mazda CX-5 Diesel Problems

There are literally hundreds of things that could have caused the engine to suddenly stop. It could be anything from an electrical failure to a broken crankshaft to a seized torque-converter to an empty fuel tank. And practically anything in between. The dash lights illuminating when the engine stopped is actually quite normal, as the lights are trying to warn you that something’s wrong (in case you hadn’t noticed).

The fact that it won’t restart is no real clue, either, as you haven’t told me whether the engine turns over and won’t fire, or won’t turn over on the starter at all.

While the Mitsubishi Outlander is spacious, reliable and easy to drive, our experience testing it against rival medium SUVs have found it to be noisy and a little too firm riding to be truly comfortable and relaxing. At your price point, there are better alternatives out there. 

Have you considered a Mazda CX-5? In petrol or diesel, we have found it to be a superior and more economical proposition, and is definitely quieter and more refined. Plus, the Mazda's all-wheel-drive system is more sophisticated and better at dealing with loose surfaces like sand.

A late-model (post 2014) S5-series Subaru Forester 2.5i petrol is far more economical than the earlier iterations, since it switched to a more efficient CVT continuously variable transmission. And there's also the 2.0D turbo-diesel which is economical. This, too, is a fine SUV on-road or for light off-road driving.

Finally, the Nissan X-Trail diesel is a roomy and capable choice, especially from 2017, when it received a 2.0-litre turbo-diesel to replace the older 1.6L unit.

If you’re happy with the Mazda 6 wagon – and it sounds like you are - then there’s a good case for sticking with the Mazda brand. And if that’s the case, the next thing to consider is which model and body style. Given your requirement for a car that is easier to get in and out of, I reckon a mid-sized SUV might make the most sense since it’s footprint will be similar to the Mazda 6 you have now, but it sits you higher and more upright. On that basis, the Mazda CX-5 seems the natural choice.

If you go for the petrol-engined Touring model, you’ll get all-wheel-drive for extra grip and safety as well as keyless entry and start where you can open the vehicle and start the engine without even taking the key from your pocket. Very convenient. If you can afford a little more, the GT model gets you the powered front seats you need and these even have a memory function that will automatically adjust them to either your or your husband’s preferred settings as a one-button job. Again, very convenient. The GT model also get a powered tailgate which was also on your must-have list. About the only thing missing is the full-sized spare wheel, and all Mazda CX-5s use a space-saver spare. But be honest, are you going to change a flat tyre yourself, or call roadside assistance? And when was the last time you experienced a flat tyre anyway?

Mazda released a so-called “fix” for the problem you have. It involves a new dipstick and modified software for the diesel particulate filter. The operation of the DPF was said to be the cause of the problem according to a Mazda spokesman when the “fix” was released. Go to your dealer and have the rework done.

Both the CX-5 and the Tribeca are good choices; they're capable, well built and reliable. Others to consider are the Kia Sportage and Sorento. While they are Korean like the Captiva, unlike the Captiva they're very good cars, well built and reliable.

The advantage of the Sorento is that it's a seven-seater, so it will have more space for a big trip. Do not go for diesel unless you travel more than 30,000km a year, otherwise it will take too long to recoup the extra cost of the engine.

The software fix alters the purging of the particulate filter to overcome the problem of diesel getting into the engine oil. It would seem that Mazda is saying that it's ok for the oil to rise to the new level without causing any problems. You would have to believe that Mazda has done some testing to verify that and is now content that with the two fixes the problem has been eradicated. Anyone with a CX-5 should contact their dealer about getting their car updated.

Mazda has assured us that the changes, most notably the revised calibration of the fuel injection into the DPF as part of the purging process of the filter, that have been implemented on problem cars in the field and in production have fixed the problem.

Mazda told us that the fix to rectify CX-5 models affected by oil dilution issues has been made available. Along with a simple software update to modify the operation of the Diesel Particulate Filter, a revised dipstick will also be fitted. Mazda dealers have been contacting owners of affected vehicles to arrange to have the fix applied under normal warranty provisions. The software change should affect the operation of the filter and fix the problem, so you shouldn't have any more trouble with the oil level rising. Talk to your dealer and make sure your car has the fix.