Mazda CX-5 Years to Avoid
We analyzed 2149 owner complaints and 20 safety recalls registered with the NHTSA to determine which Mazda CX-5 model years are lemons and which are safe to purchase.
Years to Avoid
Model year 2016 had the highest spike in defects, particularly in electrical system.
Best Years to Buy
Significantly lower defect frequency, few recalls, and refined mechanicals.
Electrical System
The #1 source of driver complaints on this vehicle. Inspect this subsystem thoroughly during pre-purchase inspection.
Mazda CX-5 Complaints & Defects by Model Year
Official consumer safety reports filed with the NHTSA. Click any year for the complete breakdown.
Mazda CX-5 Model Year Comparison Table
Detailed breakdown by model year showing complaint totals, safety recalls, and reliability verdicts.
| Model Year | Complaints | Recalls | Defect Score | Verdict | Details |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2013 Mazda CX-5 | 194 | 1 | 46/100 | Exercise Caution | Report → |
| 2014 Mazda CX-5 | 377 | 4 | 83/100 | Year to Avoid | Report → |
| 2015 Mazda CX-5 | 133 | 4 | 61/100 | Year to Avoid | Report → |
| 2016 Mazda CX-5 | 512 | 5 | 100/100 | Year to Avoid | Report → |
| 2017 Mazda CX-5 | 150 | 1 | 34/100 | Exercise Caution | Report → |
| 2018 Mazda CX-5 | 122 | 3 | 34/100 | Exercise Caution | Report → |
| 2019 Mazda CX-5 | 273 | 2 | 68/100 | Year to Avoid | Report → |
| 2020 Mazda CX-5 | 108 | 0 | 32/100 | Exercise Caution | Report → |
| 2021 Mazda CX-5 | 148 | 0 | 37/100 | Exercise Caution | Report → |
| 2022 Mazda CX-5 | 65 | 0 | 27/100 | Exercise Caution | Report → |
| 2023 Mazda CX-5 | 67 | 0 | 24/100 | Safe to Buy | Report → |
Buying a Used Mazda CX-5: Key Reliability Insights
What are the Mazda CX-5 years to avoid?
Based on official NHTSA safety defect data, the Mazda CX-5 model years to avoid are 2014, 2015, 2016, 2019. These years exhibit significantly higher rates of owner complaints, recurring electrical system issues, and federal safety recalls.
What is the best year to buy for a used Mazda CX-5?
The most reliable used model year for the Mazda CX-5 is 2023 (as well as 2023), which recorded the lowest defect score and minimal safety recalls on record.
What are the most common problems with the Mazda CX-5?
The most frequently reported component issues for the Mazda CX-5 are Electrical System, Engine & Cooling, Powertrain & Transmission. Owners reported premature component wear and software calibration glitches to federal investigators.
How many total recalls have been issued for the Mazda CX-5?
Between 2013 and 2023, the NHTSA has published 20 safety recall campaigns and recorded 2149 official owner complaints for the Mazda CX-5.