My Mazda CX-5 Check Engine Light Is On? [Solved]

When you are driving your Mazda CX-5 on the road, and suddenly, the check engine light in your car comes on, you can become quite worried. You may not understand what’s happening, and your anxiety can escalate, especially if there is not an expert mechanic nearby.

However, there’s no need to be overly concerned because the check engine light is a warning indicator that informs you about potential issues in your vehicle. If you don’t know what the check engine light signifies, it’s not a problem. Because in this blog article, we have explained in detail the various reasons why the check engine light might come on and provided potential solutions. Once you’ve completed reading this article, you will have a clear understanding of the reasons behind the check engine light coming on in your Mazda CX-5. So, let’s get started.

1: Common Causes of Check Engine Light Mazda CX-5 :

The check engine light is called the Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL). It is an integral part of your vehicle’s onboard diagnostic system. When the light flashes, it shows that more serious issue that requires your immediate attention. Some common reasons for a check engine light in Mazda CX-5 include:

1.1: Bad spark plugs and wires:

Spark plugs and wires are essential components for your engine’s ignition system. Over time, these parts can become worn, corrupted, or damaged, which can lead to misfires, reduced fuel efficiency, and poor engine performance.

 If your Mazda CX-5’s check engine light is on because of bad spark plugs or wires, it is important to replace them as soon as possible to avoid any further damage to the engine.

Symptoms:

• Rough idle or engine misfires
• Decreased fuel efficiency
• Poor acceleration and engine performance
• Difficulty starting the engine
• Engine stalling

1.2: Faulty mass airflow sensor:

The responsibility of a mass airflow sensor (MAF) is to measure the quantity of air entering the engine, Enabling the engine control unit (ECU) to establish the suitable fuel-to-air ratio. A faulty MAF sensor can lead to poor engine performance, decreased fuel efficiency, and emissions problems.

 If the check engine light is on due to a malfunctioning MAF sensor, it’s crucial to have it replaced or cleaned to restore your Mazda CX-5’s optimal performance.

Symptoms:

• Hesitation or jerking during acceleration
• Poor engine performance
• Decreased fuel efficiency
• Stalling or rough idling
• Difficulty starting the engine

1.3: Catalytic converter:

The catalytic converter plays a key role in your car’s exhaust system, helping to decrease harmful pollution. If it does not function correctly, it can lead to issues such as poor engine performance, lower fuel efficiency, and more pollution. 

If your check engine light is on because of a failing catalytic converter, it’s essential to replace it as soon as possible to avoid more damage to your car and to make sure you follow the rules about pollution.

Symptoms:

• Decreased engine performance and power
• Reduced fuel efficiency
• Rotten egg smell from the exhaust
• Increased emissions
• Overheating or glowing red catalytic converter

1.4: Faulty oxygen sensor:

Oxygen sensors keep track of the amount of unused oxygen in your car’s exhaust. This helps the car’s computer control how much fuel and air are mixed together for the best performance. If the oxygen sensor malfunctions or not functioning correctly, it can cause problems like decreased fuel efficiency, poor engine performance, and more pollution. 

If your Mazda CX-5’s check engine light is on because of a faulty oxygen sensor, it’s important to replace it so that your car runs smoothly again.

Symptoms:

• Poor engine performance and acceleration
• Decreased fuel efficiency
• Rough idle or engine misfires
• Increased emissions
• Check engine light with oxygen sensor-related codes

1.5: Loose or damaged gas cap:

If your vehicle’s gas cap is loose or damaged, it triggers the check engine light, as it can allow fuel vapors to escape and affect your Mazda CX-5’s emissions and fuel efficiency. If your check engine light is on because of a loose or damaged gas cap, it is essential to replace or tighten it to resolve the issue.

Symptoms:

• Check engine light with evaporative emission system-related codes
• Fuel smell around the vehicle, especially after filling up
• Decreased fuel efficiency due to fuel vapor loss

1.6: Low fuel:

Although it might seem trivial, running on low fuel can cause the check engine light to come on. The fuel pump relies on gasoline to keep it cool and lubricated. Running on low fuel can cause the pump to overheat and potentially fail.

 If your check engine light is on and you’re low on fuel, fill up your tank and see if the light turns off. If it persists, it’s best to have a professional identify the issue.

Symptoms:

• Check engine light with fuel system-related codes
• Poor engine performance
• Increased risk of fuel pump overheating and failure due to inadequate fuel for cooling and lubrication

1.7: Vacuum Leak:

A vacuum leak occurs when there’s a breach in the engine’s vacuum system, and it allows air to enter the combustion chamber. This can result from damaged or loose hoses, a cracked intake manifold, or a damaged throttle body gasket.

Symptoms:

• Rough or uneven idle
• Engine hesitation or stalling
• Poor fuel efficiency
• Higher-than-normal engine RPMs

1.8: Issues with Aftermarket Items:

Aftermarket items, such as performance chips, exhaust systems, or air intake systems, can sometimes interfere with your Mazda CX-5’s engine control module (ECM). This can lead to the activation of check engine light.

Symptoms:

• Reduced engine performance
• Poor fuel efficiency
• Unusual engine noises
• Erratic or inconsistent engine behavior

1: How does the Mazda CX-5 engine light reset? 

To reset the check engine light on a Mazda CX-5, follow these steps:

1. Make sure the vehicle is turned off and parked on a flat, level surface.
2. Open the driver’s side door and locate the OBD-II (On-Board Diagnostics) port. This is usually found beneath the dashboard, near the steering column.
3. Connect an OBD-II scanner to the OBD-II port. These scanners are widely available online and in auto parts stores.
4. Turn the vehicle’s ignition to the “ON” position, but do not start the engine.
5. Wait for the OBD-II scanner to establish a connection with the vehicle’s computer. Once connected, the scanner will display various information about your vehicle, including any diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) that have triggered the check engine light.
6. Use the OBD-II scanner’s interface to navigate to the “Erase Codes” or “Clear Codes” option. This will delete the stored DTCs and, in turn, reset the check engine light.
7. Turn off the vehicle’s ignition and disconnect the OBD-II scanner from the port.
8. Start the vehicle to ensure the check engine light has been cleared. If the light comes back on, it may indicate an ongoing issue that needs to be addressed by a professional mechanic.

You should remember that addressing the issue that causes the check engine light to illuminate is important. If you clear the check engine light without addressing the issue, it can result in further damage to your vehicle. Always consult a qualified mechanic if you are unsure about any issues with your Mazda CX-5.

2: Mazda CX-5 Dashboard Warning Symbols

The Mazda CX-5 features dashboard warning symbols and indicators that alert drivers to specific issues or conditions. Here are some common dashboard warning symbols you might encounter in a Mazda CX-5:

2.1: Check Engine Light:

This symbol resembles an engine and typically indicates an issue with the engine or emissions system. It can be solid (indicating a problem) or flashing (indicating a severe issue).

2.2: Battery Warning Light:

Shaped like a battery, this symbol alerts you to a problem with the vehicle’s charging system. It could indicate a weak battery or a malfunction in the alternator or related components.

2.3: Oil Pressure Warning Light:

Depicting an oil can, this symbol warns of low engine oil pressure. It’s crucial to address this immediately to prevent engine damage.

2.4: Brake System Warning Light:

This symbol resembles an exclamation point inside a circle, often with the word “BRAKE.” It indicates issues with the brake system, such as low brake fluid or a malfunction in the braking system.

2.5: ABS (Anti-Lock Brake System) Warning Light:

This symbol shows “ABS” and signifies a problem with the ABS system. The standard braking system may still work, but the ABS function may be compromised.

2.6: Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) Warning Light:

This symbol resembles an exclamation point enclosed within a horseshoe shape and serves as an indicator that one or more tires on the vehicle have low air pressure. It’s important to check and inflate the tires to the recommended levels.

2.7: Airbag Warning Light:

Depicting an airbag deploying, this symbol indicates a problem with the airbag system. It may suggest that the airbags may not deploy in the event of a collision.

2.8: Coolant Temperature Warning Light:

Shaped like a thermometer, this symbol warns of high engine coolant temperature. It’s crucial to pull over and let the engine cool down to avoid overheating.

2.9: Fuel Level Warning Light:

This symbol typically resembles a fuel pump or a gas can and indicates that the fuel level is critically low. It’s time to refuel.

2.10: ESP/TCS (Electronic Stability Program/Traction Control System) Warning Light:

This symbol typically includes the letters “ESP” or “TCS” and signifies issues with the vehicle’s stability control or traction control systems.

2.11: AWD (All-Wheel Drive) Warning Light:

If your Mazda CX-5 is equipped with all-wheel drive, this symbol may appear when there’s a problem with the AWD system.

These are some of the common dashboard warning symbols in a Mazda CX-5. It’s essential to consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual to familiarize yourself with these symbols and their meanings, as well as to take appropriate actions when they appear.

3: Mazda CX-5 Check Engine Light Flashing

If the check engine light on your Mazda CX-5 is flashing, it’s an indication that something is wrong with your car and should be looked at immediately. A flashing check engine light can signal a range of issues, spanning from minor problems like a loose gas cap to more severe and potentially critical engine issues. Addressing and resolving the problem promptly is crucial because driving with a flashing check engine light can pose safety risks.

If you notice that your Mazda CX-5 check engine light is flashing, the first step should be to identify what is causing the problem. Pull over somewhere safe and take a look under your car’s hood – if something is disconnected or loose, you’ll be able to see it. If everything appears fine under the hood, consider checking and tightening your gas cap. A loose or defective gas cap can be a potential cause of the check engine light flashing.

If tightening the gas cap doesn’t solve the issue, bring your car to a reputable Mazda service center for diagnosis and repair. Common causes for check engine lights include faulty oxygen sensors, spark plugs, air filters, catalytic converters, and more. 

Once your Mazda CX-5 is repaired, the check engine light should go off. If it doesn’t, or if you have any other questions about your car’s performance, contact a Mazda service center for further assistance. Keeping up with regular maintenance and taking your car to the shop when needed can help keep your Mazda CX-5 running smoothly. 

Related: Mazda CX-5 Check Engine Light Codes

4: Conclusion:

The check engine light in your Mazda CX-5 can indicate various issues, ranging from a minor issue, such as a loose gas cap, to a serious one, such as a failing catalytic converter. However, it’s essential to address this issue as soon as possible to avoid further damage and maintain your vehicle’s performance. If you are unsure about the cause of the problem, always consult with a professional and experienced mechanic who can fix the issue in your car.

5: FAQs 

Q: Why is my Mazda CX-5’s check engine light on after an oil change? 

A: The check engine light coming on after an oil change is typically unrelated to the oil change itself. It might be coincidental. The light could be triggered by various factors, such as a loose or damaged sensor, an issue with the engine’s electronic system, or a pre-existing problem. It’s advisable to have the vehicle’s error codes read with an OBD-II scanner to determine the specific issue and address it accordingly.

Q: Why does my Mazda CX-5’s check engine light come on in cold weather?

 A: Cold weather can affect various vehicle systems, including sensors and the battery. The check engine light might come on due to issues like a weak battery, temperature-related sensor problems, or condensation in the fuel system. It’s recommended to have the vehicle inspected in cold weather conditions to identify and address any specific issues causing the check engine light to illuminate.

Q: What should I do if I see an “Engine System Malfunction” message in my Mazda CX-5? 

A: When you encounter an “Engine System Malfunction” message in your Mazda CX-5, it indicates that the vehicle’s computer has detected a significant issue with the engine or related systems. It’s important to:

• Pull over safely and turn off the engine.
• Have the vehicle towed to a mechanic or Mazda dealership for a thorough diagnosis and repair.
• Avoid driving the vehicle further to prevent potential damage. Ignoring this warning message can lead to more severe problems and costly repairs if not addressed promptly.

Q: What does it mean when the Check Engine Light on my Mazda CX-5 comes on?

A: When your Mazda CX-5’s Check Engine Light comes on, it means there is a problem with the vehicle’s emissions system. The light may come on for many different reasons, such as a faulty oxygen sensor or catalytic converter, or something as simple as a loose gas cap. It’s important to have your vehicle checked by an experienced technician in order to determine the cause of the problem and ensure that it is repaired properly.

Q: What should I do if my CX-5 Check Engine Light comes on?

A: If your Mazda CX-5’s Check Engine Light comes on, it’s important to have your vehicle checked by an experienced technician as soon as possible in order to determine the cause of the problem. Once the issue has been identified and repaired, you should be able to reset the light by disconnecting and then reconnecting your vehicle’s battery.

Q: How often should I inspect my CX-5’s emissions system?

A: It is recommended to have your Mazda CX-5’s emissions system inspected at least once a year. Throughout this inspection, the technician will examine the vehicle for any indications of wear or damage that might result in issues with the emissions system, and they will then proceed with the necessary measures. Frequent examinations can contribute to ensuring your vehicle operates with maximum efficiency and safety.