2016 Mazda CX‑5 Button Guide: What Every Driver Needs

Stepping into a 2016 Mazda CX‑5 can feel like entering a small cockpit full of switches, knobs, and touch‑sensitive pads. Knowing which button does what isn’t just a convenience—it’s a safety boost. Below you’ll find a concise walk‑through of the most frequently used controls, from the steering wheel to the center console, so you can focus on the road instead of hunting for the right lever.

Steering‑Wheel Controls at a Glance

The CX‑5’s steering wheel doubles as a command hub. Most drivers spend the majority of their time reaching for these buttons because they let you keep both hands on the wheel.

• Audio Seek/Track Buttons – Located on the left side, these let you skip tracks or scroll radio stations without taking your eyes off the road.
• Volume Dial – A rotating knob right of the audio buttons offers fine‑grained control; turn clockwise to raise the volume, counter‑clockwise to lower it.
• Phone/Call Button – Press once to answer an incoming call (if Bluetooth is paired), press again to end it.
• Cruise Control Set/Resume – The “Set” button locks your current speed, while “Resume” brings you back to that speed after a brief pause.
• Lane‑Keep Assist Switch – Often labeled “LKAS” or with a steering‑wheel icon; toggling it off disables the lane‑keeping assist feature.
• Drive Mode Selector (i‑Select) – Some trims include a small rotary switch that lets you choose between Normal, Sport, and Eco modes, altering throttle response and shift points.

Dashboard Buttons and Indicator Lights

Just above the instrument cluster, you’ll find a row of buttons that control auxiliary functions and give you visual feedback.

• Head‑Up Display (HUD) Toggle – If equipped, pressing this button turns the projected speed and navigation cues on or off.
• Hazard Flashers – The red triangle in the center of the dash; a firm press activates both hazard lights.
• Traction Control Off (TCS) – Marked with a car slipping icon; press to temporarily disable traction control for low‑traction situations.
• Auto‑Hold Indicator – Not a button but an amber light that glows when the Auto‑Hold function is active, keeping the vehicle stationary on a slope.
• Fuel Economy Display – A button (often with a fuel‑pump icon) switches the gauge cluster to show instantaneous MPG.

Center‑Console and Infotainment Buttons

The heart of the CX‑5’s tech lies in its 6.5‑inch touchscreen, surrounded by tactile controls that supplement the on‑screen menus.

• Power Button – Turns the infotainment system on or off; a quick press wakes the screen, a long press powers down.
• Source Button – Cycles between AM/FM radio, Bluetooth audio, USB, and (if equipped) navigation.
• Bluetooth Pairing Button – Press to initiate pairing mode; the screen will prompt you to confirm the device.
• Volume Slider – A vertical bar on the left side of the screen; slide up for louder, down for softer.
• Zoom Controls – Small “+” and “–” buttons let you enlarge or shrink the map view when using navigation.
• Home Button – Returns you to the main menu regardless of which sub‑screen you’re on.

Climate‑Control Buttons and Knobs

Mazda’s climate system blends analog knobs with a few digital buttons, offering precise temperature management without excessive distraction.

• Temperature Dials (Left/Right) – Separate knobs for driver and passenger zones; rotate clockwise to raise temperature, counter‑clockwise to lower.
• Fan Speed Dial – A central knob that controls airflow intensity; clicking the knob often switches between low, medium, and high.
• Air‑Conditioning (A/C) Button – Press to engage the compressor; the button typically lights up when active.
• Recirculation Button – A circular arrow icon; toggles interior air recirculation, useful in heavy traffic.
• Defrost/Defog Buttons – Separate buttons for front windshield and rear window; press to direct hot air to the selected glass.
• Auto Climate Control – When the “AUTO” button is illuminated, the system maintains the set temperature automatically.

Power‑Window, Door‑Lock, and Miscellaneous Buttons

Located on the driver’s side door panel, these controls are straightforward but worth a quick refresher.

• Window Up/Down Switches – One button per window; a quick tap usually activates “one‑touch” closing.
• Lock/Unlock Button – Press once to lock all doors, press twice to unlock; a small lock icon lights up on the dash when locked.
• Power‑Liftgate Button – If the CX‑5 is equipped with a power rear gate, a button near the driver’s seat or on the key fob opens/closes the gate with a single press.
• Keyless‑Entry Start/Stop – A button on the steering column (or near the gear lever) that starts the engine when the smart key is inside the vehicle; press once to start, press again to stop.

Using the Buttons Effectively While Driving

Even with a well‑organized cockpit, the temptation to fumble with controls can be strong. Here are a few habits that keep your focus where it belongs.

• Set your climate preferences before you hit the road; the AUTO button will handle adjustments without further input.
• Pair your phone via Bluetooth at home, then use the steering‑wheel call button for hands‑free conversations.
• When navigating, tap the “Zoom” buttons rather than pinching the screen—your fingers stay on the wheel.
• If you need more traction on a slippery surface, briefly press the TCS off button, then release it once you’ve cleared the hazard.
• Remember the “One‑Touch” window function: a short press closes the window fully, saving you from holding the button down.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I activate the rear‑view camera on the 2016 CX‑5?

Press the camera icon on the infotainment screen, or shift into reverse; the display automatically switches to the rear‑view feed when the vehicle is in reverse gear.

Can I customize the steering‑wheel button functions?

The CX‑5’s steering‑wheel layout is fixed, but many functions (like audio source selection) can be reassigned via the vehicle’s settings menu on the touchscreen.

What does the “Auto‑Hold” light indicate?

When the amber Auto‑Hold indicator glows, the system is holding the vehicle in place after you release the brake, useful on inclines. Press the brake pedal again to resume normal braking.

Is the “i‑Select” drive mode selector available on all trims?

Only the Sport and Touring trims typically include the i‑Select rotary knob; lower trims may rely on software‑based driving‑style adjustments instead.