2023-2026 Mazda CX-5 Engine Mounts: Right vs. Left and Non-Turbo AWD Explained
This guide clarifies the specific engine and transmission mounts for the 2.5L non-turbo AWD CX-5, helping you diagnose failure and choose the correct used part.
- Compatibility is critical: These mounts are ONLY for 2.5L non-turbo AWD models. KDRH-39-060 is the right engine mount; KDRB-39-070 is the left transmission mount.
- When buying used, check for fluid leaks and cracks in the rubber. Verifying the part number is essential.
- Used OEM mounts are often superior to cheap new aftermarket parts for maintaining the vehicle's original ride quality and avoiding new vibrations.
- A known issue on this vehicle platform is severe vibration in extreme cold, as the fluid in the mounts can freeze.
Compatibility: The Most Common Buyer Mistake
The most critical factor when purchasing an engine mount for a 2023-2026 Mazda CX-5 is understanding the specific application. The parts for the 2.5L naturally aspirated (non-turbo) All-Wheel Drive (AWD) model are unique and not interchangeable with Turbo or Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) versions. Furthermore, the left and right side mounts are different parts with distinct functions.
Warning: These mounts are ONLY for the 2.5L non-turbo engine with All-Wheel Drive (AWD). They will not fit Turbo or FWD models. Always verify your vehicle's specifications before ordering.
| Part Number | Position & Name | Common Description | Fitment Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| KDRH-39-060 | Right (Passenger Side) | Engine Mount, Side Mount, No.3 Mount | This is the primary engine-side mount. It handles a significant portion of the engine's weight and torque. |
| KDRB-39-070 | Left (Driver Side) | Automatic Transmission Mount, No.4 Mount | While located on the driver's side, this is technically a transmission mount, connecting the transmission housing to the frame. |
Symptoms of a Failing Engine Mount
When an engine mount fails, it can no longer properly support the engine or absorb vibrations. The symptoms are often subtle at first but will worsen over time.
- Excessive Vibration: This is the most common symptom. You may feel a noticeable vibration through the steering wheel, floor, or seats, especially when the car is idling in gear ('Drive' or 'Reverse').
- Clunking or Thumping Noises: Loud clunks or thuds from the engine bay are common during hard acceleration, braking, or shifting gears. This is the sound of the engine moving excessively and hitting other components.
- Visible Engine Movement: With the hood open, have a helper briefly rev the engine while the car is in park with the brake firmly applied. If you see the engine rock or lurch significantly, one or more mounts have likely failed.
- A Rough Ride: A jolt or harsh feeling when the transmission shifts gears can also be a sign of a bad mount.
Known Issues, TSBs, and Recalls
As of mid-2026, there are no active recalls or Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) from Mazda specifically for engine mount failure on 2023-2026 CX-5 models.
A Note on Cold Weather Vibration
Owners of the previous model year CX-5 (2017-2018) within the same generation reported a significant issue with severe vibration and noise in extremely cold temperatures (below -13°F / -25°C). This was caused by the fluid inside the hydraulic mounts freezing and becoming solid. Mazda addressed this for earlier models with a TSB (01-022/18) that involved replacing the mount. While this TSB does not officially apply to 2023-2026 models, the underlying technology is similar. If you live in a very cold climate and experience extreme vibration only on frigid days, a frozen mount could be the cause.
Buying a Used Engine Mount: What to Inspect
A used OEM engine mount from a low-mileage vehicle can be a smart purchase, offering factory quality at a significant discount. However, careful inspection is key.
- Verify the Part Number: The most important step. The part number is typically stamped or inked onto the metal bracket. Make sure it is an exact match for the part you are replacing (KDRH-39-060 for the right side, KDRB-39-070 for the left). Do not trust a visual match alone.
- Inspect the Rubber: Look for any cracks, splits, or tearing in the black rubber portions of the mount. Pay close attention to the areas where the rubber bonds to the metal brackets. Any separation is a sign of failure.
- Check for Leaks: These are hydraulic mounts filled with fluid. Look for any dark, oily residue on the rubber or metal housing. A wet or stained appearance indicates the mount has leaked its damping fluid and is no longer effective. A failed mount will often have dirt and grime stuck to the leaked fluid.
- Examine the Metal Bracket: Check the aluminum or steel brackets for any signs of cracking, stress fractures, or heavy corrosion. Ensure all mounting holes are round and not elongated.
- Mileage and Vehicle History: Ideally, source a mount from a vehicle with less than 50,000 miles that was not involved in a major front-end collision.
Pro Tip: For a part like this, a used OEM mount is often a better choice than a cheap, new aftermarket part. The OEM mounts are specifically tuned by Mazda to control the unique noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH) characteristics of the CX-5's engine. Many aftermarket mounts are simple, solid rubber blocks that may fit correctly but can introduce new, unpleasant vibrations into the cabin.
Cost Comparison
Prices can vary by supplier and location. The following is an estimated breakdown of costs.
| Part/Service | Estimated Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| New OEM (Dealer/Online) | $190 - $290 per mount | Price varies between the right engine mount and left transmission mount. |
| New Aftermarket | $85 - $160 per mount | Quality and performance can vary significantly. May not have the same vibration-damping properties as OEM. |
| Used OEM | $75 - $150 per mount | A cost-effective option if the part is inspected carefully from a low-mileage vehicle. |
| Shop Labor | $100 - $200 per mount | Based on an estimated 1-1.5 hours of labor per mount. Replacing multiple mounts at once may reduce the per-mount labor cost. |
Replacement Overview
- Difficulty: 3 out of 5. This is manageable for a DIYer with mechanical experience.
- Estimated Time: 1 - 1.5 hours per mount.
- Tools Required: A good socket and wrench set, torque wrench, and a floor jack with a block of wood to safely support the engine or transmission.
The general procedure involves supporting the weight of the engine from below with a jack, unbolting the old mount from the frame and the engine/transmission, removing it, and installing the new one. It is critical to torque the new bolts to the manufacturer's specifications to ensure safety and prevent damage.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is the right engine mount (KDRH-39-060) the same as the left transmission mount (KDRB-39-070)?
No. They are completely different parts and are not interchangeable. The right side is the primary engine mount, while the left side mount supports the transmission.
Can I use a mount from a CX-5 with a Turbo engine?
No. The mounts for the 2.5L Turbo engine have different part numbers and are designed for different weight and vibration characteristics. Using the wrong mount will likely result in poor fitment and excessive vibration.
Will a bad engine mount cause a Check Engine Light?
Typically, a failing engine mount will not trigger a Check Engine Light by itself. However, in severe cases, the excessive engine movement could potentially damage other components like wiring or vacuum hoses, which could then cause a light to appear.
Do I need to replace all the mounts at once?
Not necessarily, but it's good practice to inspect all of them if one has failed. When one mount fails, it puts extra stress on the others, which can cause them to fail prematurely. If your vehicle has higher mileage, replacing them as a set can be a preventative measure.
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: KDRH-39-060 KDRB-39-070
Type: Hydraulic, Fluid-Filled
We Have This Part in Stock
The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
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