CX-5 Navigation SD Card
This page covers only what’s specific to the CX-5. Map updates, card cloning, VIN-locking, region codes, and slow-load fixes work the same across every Gen 6 car; see Navigation SD cards & map updates and nav SD performance for the full platform reference.
The slot is inside the center armrest compartment
Section titled “The slot is inside the center armrest compartment”The navigation SD card slot is inside the center armrest compartment. On KF cars (2017 onward) it sits on the front wall of the compartment, near the USB ports. On the first-gen KE (2016 and earlier) it may be on the side wall instead.
The slot takes a full-size SD card. Don’t force a microSD adapter if it won’t seat cleanly.
Higher trims shipped the card; every trim is navigation-ready
Section titled “Higher trims shipped the card; every trim is navigation-ready”| Model year | Trim | Card included from factory |
|---|---|---|
| 2016 (KE) | Grand Touring | Yes |
| 2017–2018 (KF) | Grand Touring | Yes |
| 2019–2020 (KF) | Signature, Grand Touring Reserve | Yes |
| All years | Sport, Touring | No; slot present, card sold separately |
Navigation is unlocked by a genuine VIN-pairing card, not by a different head unit. Mazda sells the card (BHP1-66-EZ1 plus a revision letter, MSRP $399.95, routinely less from online dealers) as a genuine accessory for 2016–2020 Sport, Touring, and Grand Touring: insert the card, press NAV, and the car gains full navigation. This works the same across the Gen 6 lineup.
The 2021 model year is Gen 7 (a different CMU). Nothing on this page applies to it; see 2021+ CX-5 infotainment.
CX-5-specific quirks
Section titled “CX-5-specific quirks”- Self-ejecting card. The armrest slot uses a push-push spring that wears out on higher-mileage CX-5s. The card backs out, the unit throws “No SD card,” and you lose the map until you reseat it. A folded sliver of tape on the card’s leading edge holds it without blocking the contacts.
- Vibration unseating. Same symptom, gentler cause: washboard roads can walk a loose card partway out. Push until it clicks; if it won’t hold, it’s the spring.
Free updates and replacements
Section titled “Free updates and replacements”Current cards include three years of free map updates through the Mazda Update Toolbox; after that updates are paid (roughly $85–140 per region). Updates are region-locked to the card’s original region.
If your card is missing, a dealer can order a replacement by VIN; see the dealer visit guide. The card pairs to the vehicle after about 100 km of driving, so a used card from another CX-5 won’t work unless a dealer re-codes it. A sector-by-sector clone of your own card is a valid backup in the same car.
Pull the nav SD card before any firmware update; see CX-5 firmware.
Related
Section titled “Related”- Navigation SD cards & map updates: full platform reference
- Nav SD performance: slow map loads, card class
- CX-5 firmware
- CX-5 overview
- Mazda3 navigation SD card: same Gen 6 platform