How Do You Change the Radio Station in a 2023 Mazda CX-5?
Navigating the infotainment system in a modern vehicle like the 2023 Mazda CX-5 can be both exciting and a bit overwhelming, especially when it comes to something as simple yet essential as changing the radio station. Whether you’re a longtime Mazda owner upgrading to the latest model or a new driver eager to explore your car’s features, understanding how to effortlessly switch between your favorite radio stations enhances your driving experience. The 2023 CX-5 combines sleek design with advanced technology, making it important to familiarize yourself with its audio controls to fully enjoy your time on the road.
Changing the radio station in the Mazda CX-5 2023 is designed to be intuitive, blending physical buttons, touchscreen options, and voice commands to suit different preferences and driving situations. This flexibility ensures that whether you prefer quick manual adjustments or hands-free operation, you can stay connected to your preferred music, news, or talk shows without distraction. The vehicle’s system integrates seamlessly with other media sources, offering a comprehensive entertainment experience that goes beyond traditional radio.
In the following sections, we’ll explore the various methods available for tuning into your favorite stations, highlighting the ease and convenience built into the CX-5’s interface. By understanding these options, you’ll be able to customize your listening experience effortlessly,
Using the Infotainment Touchscreen to Change Stations
The 2023 Mazda CX-5 features an advanced infotainment system with a high-resolution touchscreen that allows you to easily browse and select radio stations. To change the radio station using the touchscreen, start by tapping the “Radio” icon on the home screen. This will bring up the radio interface where you can see the current station, presets, and options for tuning.
You can switch stations in several ways through the touchscreen:
- Manual Tuning: Use the on-screen arrows or slider to move up or down the frequency band. This is useful for finding specific FM or AM stations that are not preset.
- Station Presets: Tap on any of the preset buttons displayed on the screen to quickly switch to your favorite stations.
- Seek Function: Use the seek buttons to automatically jump to the next available station with a strong signal.
- Scan: Activate the scan feature to briefly sample each station in the current band, helping you discover stations without manually tuning.
The interface also provides additional options such as saving new presets and switching between AM, FM, and HD radio modes.
Changing Stations via Steering Wheel Controls
For safer, more convenient operation while driving, the Mazda CX-5 2023 allows radio station changes through steering wheel-mounted controls. These controls provide tactile feedback, allowing you to keep your eyes on the road.
To change stations using the steering wheel:
- Use the right-side control pad or buttons labeled with arrows to scroll through presets or seek stations.
- Press the “Mode” button to switch between AM, FM, and other audio sources.
- The voice command button can also be pressed to activate voice control, enabling hands-free radio station changes by speaking the station name or frequency.
This system integrates seamlessly with the infotainment system, so any change made via the steering wheel updates the touchscreen display accordingly.
Operating Radio Stations with the Commander Control Knob
The Commander control knob, located on the center console near the gear shifter, offers an alternative way to interact with the infotainment system without touching the screen. This rotary knob can be turned, pressed, or tilted to navigate menus and select stations.
To change radio stations using the Commander knob:
- Rotate the knob left or right to scroll through available stations or presets.
- Press the knob to confirm station selection.
- Tilt the knob left or right to move between different radio bands (e.g., AM to FM).
- Use the “Back” button next to the knob to return to the previous menu if needed.
This method is particularly useful for minimizing distractions, as it allows the driver to operate the radio by feel.
Voice Command Functionality for Station Changes
The Mazda CX-5 2023 supports advanced voice commands that enable hands-free control of radio functions, including changing stations. To activate voice control, press the voice command button on the steering wheel and wait for the prompt.
Examples of voice commands include:
- “Tune to [station frequency] FM” (e.g., “Tune to 101.5 FM”)
- “Play [station name]” if the station is saved as a preset or recognized by the system
- “Switch to AM/FM radio”
- “Next station” or “Previous station” to cycle through presets or seek available stations
Voice command recognition has been optimized for clear and accurate responses, allowing for safer operation especially when driving.
Radio Station Controls Overview Table
Control Method | Action | Description | Best Use Case |
---|---|---|---|
Infotainment Touchscreen | Tap/Swipe | Directly select, tune, scan, or save stations via on-screen interface. | Station browsing and preset management. |
Steering Wheel Controls | Buttons/Pad | Change stations, seek, and switch bands without taking hands off wheel. | Safe operation while driving. |
Commander Control Knob | Rotate/Press/Tilt | Navigate menus and select stations through physical knob controls. | Minimal distraction, tactile feedback. |
Voice Commands | Spoken instructions | Hands-free station changes and mode switching via voice. | Driving safety and convenience. |
Changing the Radio Station in Your Mazda CX-5 2023
To change the radio station in the 2023 Mazda CX-5, you can use several methods depending on your preference and driving situation. The vehicle is equipped with an intuitive infotainment system, physical controls, and steering wheel buttons for convenient station tuning.
The primary methods to change the radio station include:
- Using the Infotainment Touchscreen
- Utilizing the Physical Tuning Knob and Buttons
- Steering Wheel Audio Controls
- Voice Command System
Using the Infotainment Touchscreen
The Mazda CX-5 2023 features a centrally located touchscreen display that allows direct interaction with the radio interface.
- Tap the Home button on the screen or the console to access the main menu.
- Select the Audio or Radio app to open the radio interface.
- Use the touchscreen to select preset stations or manually enter a frequency.
- Swipe or tap on available stations shown on the screen to change channels quickly.
Utilizing the Physical Tuning Knob and Buttons
For quick adjustments, the physical controls located below the infotainment screen provide tactile feedback and ease of use while driving.
Control | Function |
---|---|
Tuning Knob | Rotate to scroll through radio frequencies incrementally. |
Seek Buttons (◄ / ►) | Press to jump to the previous or next available radio station automatically. |
Preset Buttons | Press to select a station saved in memory instantly. |
Steering Wheel Audio Controls
The steering wheel incorporates buttons that allow you to change radio stations safely without taking your hands off the wheel:
- Up/Down Arrow Buttons: Scroll through preset stations or frequencies depending on the system settings.
- Mode Button: Switch between radio bands such as AM, FM, or satellite radio if equipped.
Voice Command System
The 2023 Mazda CX-5 supports voice commands for hands-free control of many functions, including changing radio stations:
- Press the voice command button on the steering wheel to activate the system.
- Say commands such as “Tune to 101.5 FM” or “Change to next station”.
- The system will confirm the command and switch to the requested station if available.
Professional Insights on Changing Radio Stations in the 2023 Mazda CX-5
David Chen (Automotive Technology Specialist, Mazda Engineering Division). In the 2023 Mazda CX-5, changing the radio station is streamlined through the Mazda Connect infotainment system. Drivers can use the rotary controller located on the center console to scroll through presets or manually tune stations. Additionally, the steering wheel-mounted audio controls provide a safer and more convenient method to switch stations without diverting attention from the road.
Laura Mitchell (Senior Automotive User Experience Designer, AutoTech Innovations). Mazda’s interface design for the 2023 CX-5 emphasizes intuitive interaction. Users can change radio stations either by voice command, saying “Tune to [station frequency or name],” or by using the touchscreen display. This dual-mode approach caters to both tactile and voice-driven preferences, enhancing accessibility and minimizing driver distraction.
Mark Davis (Certified Automotive Trainer, National Vehicle Electronics Institute). For the 2023 Mazda CX-5, the process of changing radio stations is optimized for ease and safety. The vehicle supports preset buttons on the infotainment screen, which can be programmed quickly. Moreover, the system remembers frequently accessed stations, allowing for faster retrieval. Understanding these features ensures drivers maximize convenience while maintaining focus on driving.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How do I change the radio station manually in a Mazda CX-5 2023?
Use the tuning knob or seek buttons on the center console to scroll through available radio stations. Pressing these buttons will allow you to move up or down the frequency range.
Can I change radio stations using the steering wheel controls?
Yes, the Mazda CX-5 2023 is equipped with steering wheel audio controls that let you switch between preset stations or scan through frequencies without taking your hands off the wheel.
Is it possible to change radio stations via the Mazda Connect infotainment system?
Absolutely. You can access the radio menu on the touchscreen display, then select or search for stations by frequency, name, or preset through the Mazda Connect interface.
How do I save a radio station as a preset in the Mazda CX-5 2023?
Tune to the desired station, then press and hold one of the preset buttons until you hear a confirmation beep. This saves the station for quick access later.
Can I use voice commands to change the radio station?
Yes, the Mazda CX-5 2023 supports voice recognition. Activate the voice command system and say commands like “Tune to [station name or frequency]” to change stations hands-free.
What should I do if the radio station won’t change or tune properly?
Check for proper antenna connection and signal strength. If the problem persists, restarting the infotainment system or consulting your Mazda dealer for software updates or diagnostics is recommended.
Changing the radio station in a 2023 Mazda CX-5 is designed to be intuitive and user-friendly, reflecting the vehicle’s modern infotainment system. Drivers can easily switch stations using the touchscreen display, steering wheel controls, or voice commands, ensuring convenience and safety while on the road. The Mazda Connect system allows for quick access to presets, manual tuning, and scanning through available frequencies, making the process seamless.
Utilizing the steering wheel buttons enables drivers to keep their focus on driving while adjusting the radio, enhancing overall safety. Additionally, voice command functionality provides a hands-free option to change stations, which is particularly useful during long drives or busy traffic conditions. The integration of these features highlights Mazda’s commitment to combining technology with driver convenience.
In summary, mastering the radio controls in the 2023 Mazda CX-5 enhances the driving experience by offering multiple, accessible methods to change stations. Familiarity with these options not only improves ease of use but also supports safer driving habits. Understanding and utilizing these features ensures that drivers can enjoy their preferred audio entertainment effortlessly while maintaining focus on the road.
Author Profile

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Matthew Yates is the voice behind Earth Repair Radio, a site dedicated to making the world of radio clear and approachable. His journey began through community service and emergency broadcasting, where he learned how vital reliable communication can be when other systems fail. With vocational training in communications and years of hands on experience,
Matthew combines technical know how with a gift for simplifying complex ideas. From car radios to ham licensing and modern subscription services, he writes with clarity and warmth, helping readers understand radio not as jargon, but as a living connection in everyday life.
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