Why is my Mazda CX-5 burning oil? Is hight oil consumption problem fixed?

By Nick Marchenko, PhD

This article discusses increased oil loss or oil consumption in the Mazda CX-5 (all engines & models).

Mazda CX-5 Series

• Mazda CX-5 GH (2012 to 2015)
• Mazda CX-5 GH (Facelift No. 1) (2015 to 2017)
• Mazda CX-5 KF (2017 to 2021)
• Mazda CX-5 KF (Facelift No. 1) (since 2021)

How Much Oil Does a Healthy Mazda CX-5 Consume in Normal Operation?

According to many car manufacturers, the oil consumption of a normal, intact vehicle should be between 1.7 and 8.5 ounces of engine oil per 621 miles (under 0.05%) - of course, there are outliers above and below this figure. If your Mazda CX-5 actually consumes more than 10.1 ounces of oil per 621 miles, this suggests a possible technical defect and you should have the vehicle checked in a workshop.

The most important advice in advance: You should regularly check the Mazda CX-5 oil level - always top up with engine oil afterwards (if necessary). Regular Mazda CX-5 oil changes as part of the Mazda CX-5 inspection are also important for a long engine life.

Causes of Increased Oil Consumption in the Mazda CX-5

In most cases, the following ten points are responsible for increased oil loss in the engines of the Mazda CX-5.

1. Age & Type of Engine: After a few years, the tightness of cylinders and piston rings of any engine can deteriorate, which can lead to higher oil consumption.
2. Diesel, Gasoline & Turbochargers: Diesel engines usually consume more oil than gasoline engines - an exception, however, are gasoline engines with turbochargers - here the oil consumption is higher due to the additional lubrication of the turbocharger.
3. Excessive Power Consumption & Tuning: Excessive use of the accelerator pedal (primarily in vehicles with performance enhancements) and frequent acceleration can also increase oil consumption.
4. Faulty Valves: Valves that do not close properly can lead to increased oil consumption by allowing oil to enter the combustion chamber.
5. Leaky Cylinder Head Gaskets: A leaky cylinder head gasket can also allow oil to enter the combustion chamber.
6. Faulty Oil and Fuel Pump: A defective oil or fuel pump may not pump enough oil or fuel into the engine, which can again lead to increased oil consumption.
7. Old Engine Oil: Older engine oil can lose its lubricating ability over time - this also leads to higher consumption.
8. Weather: The Mazda CX-5 usually consumes a bit more engine oil in winter than in summer at high temperatures.
9. Defective Crankcase Ventilation: If there is no pressure compensation in the crankcase, the engine oil pushes past the piston rings and is also burned.
10. Clogged Lines or Filters: If the oil filter or various lines are clogged, the oil consumption of the Mazda CX-5 also increases.

Which Mazda CX-5 Engines May Consume More Engine Oil?

Note: The following information is based on reports from drivers and should only serve as a guide. If you have a specific inquiry about your Mazda CX-5 engine, leave a comment (we answer every inquiry).

• 2.0 Gasoline, 2011 – 2016: defective valve stem seals, piston rings wear out quickly
• 2.5 Gasoline, 2011 – 2016: oil leaks at the crankshaft seal
• 2.2 Diesel, 2011 – 2017: problems with the exhaust gas recirculation cooler and oil cooling

Symptoms / Signs of Increased Oil Consumption or Oil Loss in the Mazda CX-5

• Oil loss due to a leak in the engine or in the oil pan can be recognized by stains under the car (even after a short standing time).
• If the engine oil is burned, this is noticeable by blue or bluish exhaust smoke.
• Also, a clattering of the engine or atypical noises can be a cause of oil consumption or oil loss in the Mazda CX-5.
• An increased engine or coolant temperature (engine overheats) also suggests a possible oil loss.

Nick Marchenko, PhD

Industrial Engineer & Automotive Content Specialist

Nick writes in-depth guides on car clubs, engine specs, vehicle ownership, and modifications, combining engineering knowledge with automotive passion.

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