@windhand , I get the underlying point of your post and sympathize with your frustrations.
I saw that other than the howling crosswind noise you otherwise enjoy the cx5 and mentioned that it's a simple fix with $10 of weatherstripping. Just a suggestion... Could you just spend the $10 bux for the weatherstripping and resolve the situation yourself with instructions from the TSB (or have an independent shop handle the repair if you are not inclined to diy?
Seems like a path of less resistance to remedy the noise yourself and go on with life.
