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    Mazda OEM vs Value brake padsa

    Remember Mazda makes none of these parts. But, I understand the warm fuzzy feeling of using Mazda labeled parts. Personal preference: go with the original equipment supplier. You get OEM quality and save a bit because the package is missing the car brand name label. As a DIYer OES is a minimum...
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    Trying to Decide Between CX-5 or CX-9

    BTW: A first generation CX-9 with the 3.7L V6 is a pretty capable vehicle. Just be aware the water pump is an expensive repair by a competent shop. However, if you can DIY a CX-9 needing a water pump might be a great deal.
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    Trying to Decide Between CX-5 or CX-9

    Any mid-size car is capable of towing 2,000 lbs. If you are going long distances over mountains you will want to address transmission and engine cooling. But for your stated use the CX-5 will do the job. For reference: I regularly tow a slightly larger boat. When towing a rear wheel drive bias...
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    Oil Consumption or incorrect capacity listed?

    I believe the CX-5 has both level and pressure switches on the oil. Echo above: Neither should come on when it is only 1/2 to 3/4 qts low. Add: 4.9 qts is the right fill (4.5 liters is specified). Since you are still under warranty make an appointment and have the sensors checked out. The...
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    CX-5 Parking brake malfunction

    TSBs never impact every car. The difference between a recall and TSB (or the reason a TSB becomes a recall) boil down to 2 topics - severity and frequency: What is the severity of the issue when it occurs? There is no easy answer because there is always the argument that "What if my car goes...
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    Creaking Brakes - Any Ideas?

    So much weird in this thread. First, groaning and creaking is way more often bushing / suspension related and not brakes. Second, the typical cure is to use OEM components because aftermarket parts will sometimes introduce noises that were not there previously. Recommendations for aftermarket...
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    2017~2025 Buying Rental. Good or bad?

    At an emotional level a previous rental feels like a riskier choice - but the facts don't support this. Previous rentals are no better or worse than any other used car. You still need to inspect the interior and exterior. You still need to test drive the car and possibly have an independent...
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    Mazda's Cars Are Good But Its Dealers Are Still Kind of Awful

    Before I bought my CX-5 I talked with 2 Mazda owners - both women, both had great experiences with a Mazda dealer south of the Twin Cities, MN. I bought there and it was a good experience. I'll probably never use their service because I do 99% of all repairs myself and I'm cheap. But - let's be...
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    Pricey Oil Changes!

    Yes: Castrol, Mobil1 and any other GL-5 oil and a quality filter will meet all the requirements. You will not harm your engine in any way. But let's not ruin a good obsess on oil thread. I'll add a bit of info to continue the debate. Really I'm torn between using a quality filter and any...
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    Brakes - Piston Dust Seal

    Congrats on the repair. It can be a little nerve racking opening up the brake system - so good job on getting it bled correctly following your repair. Tip for next time: Before you begin your work push the brake pedal down and hold it there with a piece of wood wedged against the bottom cushion...
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    Mazda's Oil Monitor Question

    I'm a fan of the oil change algorithm. Just check oil level every couple of months. And, wait for the alert - isn't that the point of the algorithm? Does it really matter if oil life is given in percent or miles? Assumption: It will alert you that the oil needs changing with enough buffer to get...
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    '16 CX-5 possible rear brake drag causing tires to wear?

    If you got 40K miles from the factory tires consider yourself lucky and replace your tires. Have your brakes inspected at the same time - it will be obvious if they have been dragging. I would have expected the fronts would have worn more than the rears. But maybe you have been doing some tire...
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    2017 Tow Hitch

    That is the Canadian OEM harness. And, I'll toss in another option. Like the OEM harness the Tekonsha (118746) trailer light converter is a good aftermarket choice. Like the Canadian OEM harness it offers T connectors so there is no wire piercing to get the light signals. This aftermarket...
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    Workshop Manuals for 2018 CX-5

    Thanks to the OP. I love having the service manual - it will be used. This is not intended as criticism - just awareness for others: the engine workshop manual is not included in this set.
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    2013~2016 103k miles - shocks and struts replacement

    One tire and only inside was bald? Suspect alignment. However, if you are going to replace suspension parts you'll need an alignment after anyway. My opinion: If you really intend on keeping the car for another 100K miles then replace worn out parts. Assuming you have the money why not enjoy...
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    SkyActiv TSBs (Technical Service Bulletins)

    Yep - I hear you. In the ideal world a forum like Mazdas247 would be given all kinds of special access to Mazda copyright material. An argument could be made that members here are Mazda*s biggest fans and on balance will benefit Mazda with brand loyalty, influence others to buy Mazda products...
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    CX-5 Parking brake malfunction

    Yes. For US the VIN range below. VIN range: JM3 KE 600015-866136 Info in the TSB for other countries.
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    SkyActiv TSBs (Technical Service Bulletins)

    ... or Mazda wanted to exert some control over copyright material that they pay to create. Not everything is open source. And if you want TSBs for free there are still ways to get them with a little effort. TSBs are included among the files with workshop manuals at this link. You can download...
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    Quality of repair service

    A bit of an echo to other posts: there are dealers that provide great service - others do not. I rarely use dealer or local shops but in my area the nearest Mazda dealer service is good. No worries if the car needs repair under warranty. And, I have a local independent shop that is excellent...
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    New CX-5 GS vibration issue

    Hey all -a quick tag to my earlier post: No bad feelings toward any of the posters. I would not be happy with a broken engine mount on a new car - and agree that Mazda and the CX-5 are not perfect. And, maybe I'm a bit naive. But, tried to offer a different perspective based on my experience as...
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