2020 Mazda CX 5 Transmission Problems (Explained)

While you’re planning a long ride, transmission problems should be the least of your problems. We know how big of a hassle it is.

So you want to know about Mazda CX 5 transmission problems?

Three transmission problems for Mazda CX5 are more common than others. One is the shifting delay while driving. The gears don’t shift properly in time. Then, while accelerating, you might hear a grinding sound. Also, sometimes you might notice a burning smell coming from beneath the hood.

But knowing only this much isn’t enough. So, we have written a whole article to explain in further detail.

2020 Mazda CX 5 Transmission- Problems and Solutions

Although Mazda CX 5 is an absolute win, we understand that you want perfection. So, any trouble with the transmitter is sure to worry you.

So, we’ve tried to enlist all the problems in detail. Also, we have tried to point out their solutions so you can easily fix any casualties.

Shifting Delay

While the transmitter in Mazda CX 5 is built to work instantly, it does lag sometimes. The lag time represents the time gap. That is between you shifting gears and the transmitter responding to it.

So, why does shifting delay occurs in cars?

Mainly, shifting delays occur due to the valves that stick into the valve body. Another important reason is poor maintenance. Any transmitter that isn’t taken care of is sure to fail. Also, in recent cars, shift solenoid malfunctions could cause shifting delays.

This is the same for Mazda CX8. Here, a fact to know is what happens if gear shifting takes more than one minute. If that’s the case then most probably the transmitter won’t work at all.

After a long time of use, parts like clutches, gears, solenoids, and bands tend to malfunction. Thus the transmitter causes low internal pressure.

Also, the plungers on the solenoid cause problems because of continual vibration and heat. This in turn causes shift delay.

Then again, a bad transmission filter and pump cause a lack of hydraulic pressure. This, in turn, causes the whole hydraulic system to struggle and results in shift delay. If the filter is clogged, it blocks lubrication and the internal system can’t work properly.

Fix Sticky Valves

The rust and long amount of storage cause the valves to be sticky.

If you try to push them down you’ll see they tend to keep stuck with the valve body. While the engine is running, a lack of proper movement causes delay.

So, how to fix sticky valves? Just follow these easy steps:

To create enough clearance, apply some lubricants to the valve stands. After proper lubrication, the valves should be easier to move.
Then, check if the push rods are working fine. If they are not, replace them with new ones.

Finally, rotate the engine to ensure that the valves are working properly.

Replacing Shift Solenoid

Before replacing the solenoid, we need to know when should we replace it. So, what are the signs of bad shift solenoids?

If the shift solenoids are bad, you’ll notice a delay in acceleration and deacceleration. You might face roughness while shifting and the transmission might get stuck in neutral. Also, you’ll hear loud engine revs while hitting the brake and your transmitter won’t be able to downshift.

In this case, it is best to replace the shift solenoid. So, how to replace shift solenoids? Here are some easy steps:

Remove the pan and drain the extra fluids in a container.
Then, while supporting the solenoid, remove the clip out using a peck.

Now, gently grab and slide the solenoid down and place the new solenoid in it’s place.
Reattach the clip using needle nose pliers. Then, just attach the connector to the solenoid and lock it.
Finally, reattach the pan by screwing in the bolts. Be sure to use a torque wrench to apply the proper pressure.

Replacing Transmission Filter

Normally, it’s always a good idea to replace the filter instead of cleaning it. So, how to change the transmission filter?

Here is a step-by-step guide:

First, drain the transmission fluid to check the filter by removing the fluid pan. Check for leaks and cracks in the filter.

If the filter requires replacement then you need to purchase a compatible filter. Here are some filters for Mazda CX8:
After removing the old filter by unscrewing the bolts, take the new filter. The filter O-rings need to be lubricated with transmission fluid.
Now, line the fittings up with the valve body. Use the bolts that you removed from the old filter to secure the new filter.

Grinding during Acceleration

The grinding noise you hear while driving is most probably the planetary gear malfunctioning. While it’s a duty to match the speed of the wheel and engine, it fails.

So, what are the reasons for planetary gearbox failure?

The most possible reason could be worn-out gear teeth. Being unable to maintain proper temperature is another reason. The output shaft in the planetary gear might break down and may cause malfunction. Lastly, the gearbox shafts might lock in causing planetary gearbox failure.

So, what causes gear teeth to wear out?

Too much input speed can wear out the gear teeth. If the prime remover and gearbox are aligned nonlinearly, it may cause gearbox failure. Also, a higher load leads to greater tension on the gear teeth.

Then, what raises the temperature in the gearbox?

With higher ambient temperature, gearbox efficiency reduces. Improper bearing, lubrication, and higher load might cause this temperature to rise. Also, the wrong alignment of the input shaft and prime mover may cause the temperature to rise.

Now, what causes the output shaft to break down?

A sudden stop in the machinery works against the prime mover and causes the gearbox shaft to break. Improper installment of the gearbox could be another reason. Heavy axial and radial loads might cause the output shaft to be damaged.

Also, lack of perpendicularity might cause torsional force and break it.

That’s pretty much all the explaining you’ll need. Let’s get into the solutions.

Gear teeth Safety

To maintain the gear teeth properly you should follow these steps:

Minimize the input speed.
Align the gearbox and prime the mover properly.
For larger loads, be sure to use a larger size gearbox.

Temperature Control

To maintain the proper temperature of the gearbox, follow these steps:

To reduce ambient temperature, install a cooling system for your gearbox.
Reassemble the bearings properly.

Try to keep the load on your gearbox as low as possible.
Properly align the input shaft and prime mover of the gearbox to create temperature.

Gearbox Shaft Movement

To ensure the gearbox shafts don’t lock in, be sure to follow these steps:

Replace the worn-out gears with new ones.
Remove the foreign materials from the gear to ensure proper rotation.
Align the gears linearly.

Properly lubricate the gears and shaft to ensure smooth movement.

By following these steps completed, we hope you can enjoy a grind-free ride.

Burning Smell from beneath Hood

While driving, you might get a burning smell from your hood. So, what is the burning smell from beneath the hood?

It might be caused by a burned-out fuse. An overheating compressor might also be the reason for this problem. Also, worn-out brake pads might smell like this. Especially, if it smells like plastic then most probably another part is touching the exhaust. Causing it to eventually melt and produce that smell.

So, why does the car fuse burn out? Because of a short circuit. When the conductors supplying electricity touch, it causes this short circuit.

Then, why does the AC compressor overheat? Mainly because of excess discharge pressure. And this excess discharge causes because by dirty coils, condenser air blockage, and faulty discharge line.

Finally, why do break pads wear out? Break pads wear out over time because of the friction and heat from every brake. Also, the front brake pads wear out more than the rare ones.

Now, let’s dive into the solutions.

Fuse Replace

The solution to a blown fuse is not to fix it, but rather to replace it. Here are the steps you can follow to do this:

The fuse box panel in Mazda CX5 is located on the left side behind the cover. Take it off to access the fuses in the passenger compartment.
Locate the blown fuse using a flashlight. It will look black or the metal filament will be broken. When removing the broken fuse take note of its amperage.
You can remove and replace it with your hands. It’s important to attach the fuse with the same amperage.

Starting the ignition check if the fuse works properly.

Break Pad Replacement

It’s of utmost necessity to change a worn-out brake pad. Here are some easy steps to follow to do it:

Start by removing the top caliper bolt. It will allow the caliper to open. You might have to use a breaker bar for this.

Next, take the caliper out. To get the top bolt open use a ratchet. And for the bottom bolt use an open-ended wrench. Hammer them to get the bolts loose, but not with too much force.
With a hammer, open the brake rotor. For a new brake rotor, apply a little brake cleaner. Be sure to apply some on the emergency breaks too.
Now, attach the caliper bolts and apply some blue Loctite on them beforehand. Of course, you have to attach them to the caliper. Hand tightens them as much as possible.

Attach a new break clip in place of the previous one. Now slide in the new break pad into the broken clip. Be sure to apply anti-seize to both the pad and clip. Now attach the caliper with the god pin.

And with that, you are all set.

FAQs

Does the 2020 Mazda CX5 have a CVT transmission?

No, the Mazda CX5 doesn’t have a CVT transmission (Continuously Variable Transmission). Rather it has a SKYACTIV manual transmission. Not to mention an automatic transmission. They support the 2.5-lire, 4-cylinder base engine. Truly, they are of utmost compatibility and reliability.

Does Mazda need a transmission flush?

No, the Mazda transmission doesn’t need a transmission flush. They are equipped with a lifetime transmission fluid designed by SKYACTIV TECHNOLOGY. That is unless a major component of the transmission has to be replaced. In that case, a transmission flush would be of utmost necessity.

How often should I service Mazda CX5?

You should service your Mazda CX5 every 12 months or 7500 miles. But there is a fact here. It’s not an option, but rather a serial. If it has been 12 months but it still hasn’t been 7500 miles, still replace it. Just like that, If it has been 7500 miles in less than 12 months, still service it.

Bottom Line!

Now we’d like to hear from you.

Were we able to answer all your queries about the 2020 Mazda CX transmission problems?

Here’s some extra information for you. Also, be sure to keep some extra fuses in your car.

If there’s anything else on your mind, be sure to comment down below.

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Rob Dahm

My name is Rob Dham. I am the founder & managing editor of greaseandgears.com. I am trying to offer invaluable insights and solutions to everyday vehicle-related challenges.