2019-2024 - 2.0L Skyactiv-G petrol (122 hp) with mild hybrid
A compact crossover praised for premium build quality and sharp handling at an accessible price point. The 2.0 Skyactiv-G engine has proven reliable across Mazda's lineup with 200,000+ km lifespans common. Main concerns: weak 12V battery prone to draining, thin paint that chips easily (especially Soul Red), fragile windshields, and carbon buildup on direct-injection system at higher mileages. The 6-speed automatic is notably more reliable than competitors' CVTs. Check for power liftgate recall (2020-2021 models) and verify service history.
Battery dies within 7-10 days if car not driven regularly · more· less
This is the most common complaint on CX-30 forums. The OEM battery is only 520 CCA, which many consider inadequate for modern electronics. The key fob must be kept more than 5 meters from the vehicle or it prevents the car from "sleeping." Some owners found high parasitic draw (250-300 mA) caused by the Bluetooth unit. Solutions: upgrade to a 650+ CCA battery, use a Faraday bag for the fob when parked at home, or keep the car on a smart charger (CTEK recommended). A Body Control Module software update has resolved the issue for some owners.
Paint chips and clear coat peeling€200 - €2,000
Thin paint chips easily, especially Soul Red Crystal · more· less
Multiple forum threads report the paint as "ridiculously weak" and "extremely thin." One owner reported over 20 chips on the hood within months. Soul Red Crystal is particularly affected, with some owners needing repaints at under 2,000 km. Mazda has acknowledged the issue for certain production periods. Professional ceramic coating (€500-800) or PPF film on high-impact areas is strongly recommended. Touch-up with Dr. Colorchip works for minor chips. Full professional ceramic coating runs approximately €2,000.
Windshield stress cracks€400 - €1,300
Windshield cracks suddenly without visible impact · more· less
Owners report windshields cracking spontaneously while parked or driving, with no evidence of stone impact. Some owners are on their third windshield at 60,000 km. The issue appears related to stress fractures from body flex over rough roads. Small chips grow into large cracks overnight. Replacement cost is €400-800 for the glass, plus €300-500 for ADAS camera recalibration if equipped. Mazda does not warranty windshields. Some owners recommend avoiding OEM glass and opting for aftermarket.
Infotainment system freezing/rebooting€0 - €800
Screen freezes, goes blank, or constantly reboots · more· less
The CMU (Central Module Unit) can develop issues causing the infotainment to freeze, show blank screens, or continuously reboot. Often triggered by the navigation SD card - removing it may resolve the issue temporarily. Mazda Service Alert SA-014/21 addresses this with a CMU software reflash. Quick fix: hold Mute + Nav + Back buttons for 10 seconds. If software updates don't help, CMU replacement may be needed (covered under warranty if applicable). Out of warranty CMU replacement costs €600-800.
Carbon buildup on fuel injectors€300 - €1,200
Direct injection causes carbon deposits, reduces performance · more· less
Like all GDI engines, the Skyactiv-G can develop carbon buildup on intake valves and injectors, especially with short trips that don't reach full operating temperature. Symptoms: rough idle, reduced MPG, i-stop not activating, sluggish performance. Mazda engineered the Skyactiv-G to minimize this, but it can still occur after 80,000+ km. Preventive measures: regular highway driving, quality fuel, fuel system cleaner every 15,000 km. Professional walnut blasting costs €400-600. Full injector cleaning with removal runs €800-1,200.
AC poor performance / sensor issue€100 - €400
AC compressor cuts off during acceleration, cabin stays warm · more· less
Owners report AC not cooling adequately, especially during acceleration when the compressor cuts off. Mazda issued a bulletin for 2022-2023 models regarding a defective outside temperature sensor behind the front bumper that can read 10°C lower than actual temperature. The fix involves replacing this sensor (€100-150). Some cases involve low refrigerant (70g missing can cause noticeable performance drop). There may also be a software fix available for the compressor cutoff issue.
Front suspension clunk/knocking€100 - €500
Clunk noise from front when turning over bumps · more· less
TSB 02-004/21 addresses rattling noises from the front suspension on 2019-early 2020 production cars. Some owners report a clunk or knock when turning over speed bumps or driveway curbs. Lubricating (greasing) the swing arm bushes often resolves the noise, though it may return. In persistent cases, the anti-roll bar bushings or shock top mounts may need replacement. Cost varies based on root cause - bushing lubrication is minimal, component replacement €300-500.
Rear wheel bearing wear€300 - €600
Humming noise from rear, may fail early under 30,000 km · more· less
Some owners have reported needing rear wheel bearings replaced at under 20,000 miles, though this appears to be uncommon. Symptoms: grinding or humming noise that increases with speed, play in the wheel. When replacing, it's advisable to do both sides on the same axle as they experience similar wear. Covered under warranty if it occurs early. Cost per side is €150-300 including labor.
Above-average reliability for the segment
The CX-30 scores well in reliability surveys and the Skyactiv-G 2.0 engine has proven durable across Mazda's lineup. Most issues are cosmetic (paint, windshield) or electrical (battery, infotainment) rather than mechanical. The traditional 6-speed automatic is notably more reliable than competitors' CVT or dual-clutch units. With proper maintenance, high-mileage ownership is realistic.
Pre-Purchase Inspection Checklist
General checks
Service history
Complete Mazda dealer or specialist records preferred. Check for 20,000 km / 12-month service intervals.
Tires
Check tread depth, age (date codes), uneven wear patterns. Original size is 215/55R18.
Cold start
Must start engine completely cold. Listen for unusual sounds in first 30 seconds.
Body condition
Check for rust, accident damage, paint mismatch. Pay special attention to wheel arches.
Test drive
Minimum 20 minutes including highway speeds. Test AC performance thoroughly.
Specific for this vehicle
Inspect paint for chips and stone damage
Check hood, front bumper, A-pillars, and roof leading edge. Look for touch-up paint work. Soul Red Crystal is particularly prone to chipping.
Check windshield for cracks and chips
Look carefully for any hairline cracks or chips - they grow quickly on this model. Check date code on glass matches vehicle age.
Test battery health
Ask when battery was last replaced. Check for upgraded battery (650+ CCA vs standard 520 CCA). If possible, check if car sits for extended periods.
Test infotainment system thoroughly
Navigate through all menus, test CarPlay/Android Auto connection. Watch for freezing, lag, or unexpected reboots during the test drive.
Check AC cooling performance
Run AC on maximum cold during test drive. Note if it cuts out during acceleration. Check ambient temperature display accuracy.
Listen for suspension noises
Drive slowly over speed bumps with steering turned. Listen for clunks or knocks from the front suspension.
Verify power liftgate operation (if equipped)
Test opening/closing multiple times, including on an incline if possible. Check if 2020-2021 recall was completed.
Recalls and Technical Service Bulletins
Power liftgate unexpected lowering (2020-2021)Verify completed
Fuel tank vent hose disconnection (2020 AWD)Verify completed
Front brake caliper bolts (2020)Verify completed
Tire air valve sudden leak (2021)Verify completed
ABS hydraulic control unit (2022-2023)Verify completed
TSB: Front suspension rattle (02-004/21)Ask dealer
TSB: Infotainment reboot (SA-014/21)Ask dealer
Contact Mazda with the VIN to verify all recalls have been completed. Check at mazdausa.com/owners/recalls or your local Mazda website.
Warranty Status
Factory warranty3 years / 100,000 km
Powertrain warranty5 years / unlimited km (varies by country)
Corrosion warranty12 years
Warranty terms vary by country. In Germany, the standard warranty is 3 years without mileage limit. Extended warranty packages are available through Mazda dealers. Paint defects and windshield cracks are generally not covered under standard warranty.
This report is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional advice. Estimates may be inaccurate. Always have a qualified specialist inspect the vehicle before purchase. We accept no liability for decisions made based on this information.