Are you on the market for a new or used Mazda CX-5 and do you want to learn more about Mazda CX5 reliability? Well, if that is the case, then you are at the right place because, in this article, there will be a lot to cover when it comes to this Mazda model.
Performing proper research before you decide to spend a ton of money on a vehicle is a smart idea. On the market right now there are a ton of different brands and models and each of them has a fair share of issues.
There are good and bad cars. What is worth noting is that you cannot know which of them is good or problematic if you don’t try to learn more about the problems that this specific model is carrying with it. And you can only do this by reading the owner’s experiences on the web. Then, you can come up with a conclusion about whether or not this model is the right one for you. And we are going to help you out by listing the common problems that this model has.
But first, we are going to learn what is the Mazda CX-5 and why this model is so popular. Then we will dive into the two generations of the CX-5. We will learn more about their specs first and after that, we are going to discuss the Mazda CX5 problems. And lastly, we are going to cover Mazda CX5 reliability. So, if you want to learn more on this topic, please follow along till the end.
Mazda CX-5
Now before we start discussing Mazda CX5 reliability, let’s learn more about this model in general. I bet that there are a ton of people reading this article who are not into cars and want to learn more about what is the CX-5. So, if you are one of those guys, follow along. If not, move to the following chapters where we elaborate on the problems of the CX-5.
Nevertheless, the CX-5 was Mazda’s take on the compact crossover SUV segment. During the early years of this century, this segment grew significantly, and more and more automakers jumped on the bandwagon to build the perfect compact crossover SUV.
These vehicles are basically the most desired cars on the market right now. But more on the popularity of the compact crossovers and the CX-5, we are going to cover later on. The important thing for you right now is to know that this model was first introduced in 2012. And the first model year was 2013.
This model basically was a successor to the Mazda Tribute and the CX-7 and was the first to implement the Kodo design language that Mazda is using to this day. Along with the wide range of Mazda Skyactiv technologies that are aimed to reduce emissions and reduce fuel consumption.
During the last decade, there were two generations in total that were released. The first generation was released in 2013 and the second generation that is still in production today was released in 2017 for the 2018 model year. But what about Mazda CX 5 reliability? More on this, we are going to cover it in a bit.
Why The Mazda CX5 Is So Popular?
Now we would want to discuss another topic before we cover more about Mazda CX5 reliability and that is why this model is so popular out there? What makes it so special in the first place? Let’s elaborate.
This model is basically placed above the CX-30 and below the larger SUVs that Mazda offers like the CX-50, CX-60, and CX-8. Making this model be the sweet spot for customers.
Basically, the compact segment is the most popular car segment out there. And those companies who created good products are selling their cars like hotcakes.
Mazda currently is selling more than 160,000 units of the CX-5 annually. And that is only US market sales. The global sales of this model surpass 380,000 units. So, we can say that this model is a global hit. Just like the Toyota RAV4 and the Honda CR-V which are also extremely popular vehicles in this segment.
The only drawback of this model is that it is becoming outdated. For example, Honda has just released the new CR-V model. The latest generation as we mentioned was introduced in 2017 for the 2018 model year.
The most recent refresh the latest model got was in 2021 when the car got updated with new bumpers and headlights which improved the overall visual impression of the car. But more about these details we are going to cover later on in the article. Now let’s cover the specs of the first generation of the CX-5 and learn more about Mazda CX5 reliability.
Mazda CX5 Generations
Now let’s take a tour of the two generations of the CX-5. In the following chapters, we will dive through the specs of this model and learn more about the trim levels and engines that are included in this model.
Then we are going to cover the Mazda CX5 problems for each of these generations as well as the Mazda CX5 reliability aspect. So, if you want to learn more, follow along.
1st Generation Mazda CX5
Before we dive into Mazda CX5 reliability, let’s take a look at the first generation of the CX-5 and learn more about its specs. Knowing the specs is really useful if you are on the market and want to purchase one of these models.
Nevertheless, this model was first introduced in 2012 and was in production till 2017 when it was replaced with the second generation of the CX-5.
This model uses the same platform as the third generation Mazda3 and the third generation of Mazda6. This is a practice that a lot of carmakers do and use the same platform on a different body to cut costs. Since creating a separate platform for every model is really unfeasible.
What is worth noting is that these models are manufactured abroad and not in the US. But what about Mazda CX5 reliability? More on that we are going to cover in a moment.
Dimensions And Trims
Now let’s discuss more about the dimensions and trim levels before we dive into Mazda CX5 reliability.
The CX-5 is a compact crossover, which means that it has somewhat a shorter wheelbase than mid-size cars. More precisely, the CX-5 has a wheelbase of 106.3 inches. The overall length is 178.7 inches, the width is 72.4 inches and the height is 65.7 inches. The curb weight of the CX-5 is 3,208lbs.
When it comes to trim levels. We can say that there were three trims in total. Sport, Touring, and Grand Touring. The Sport trim level is the most affordable trim on this generation of the CX-5. But what about Mazda CX5 reliability? More on that we are going to cover in a bit.
Engines And Transmissions
Another thing that we would like to cover when it comes to the Mazda CX-5 before we discuss more about Mazda CX5 reliability is the engines and transmissions used on this model.
On this model, there was only one engine available. And that was the 2.0L Skyactiv inline-4 engine. This engine produces 155hp and 150lb-ft of torque. The engine is a direct injection double overhead cam with variable valve timing and 16 valves.
In terms of transmissions, it is worth mentioning that there were two of them available. A 6-speed manual and a 6-speed automatic. But what about Mazda CX5 reliability? We will get to that in a moment.
Fuel Economy
Now before we discuss Mazda CX5 reliability, let’s learn what kind of fuel economy this model gets. And we can say that the fuel economy of this model is pretty decent.
The fuel economy in the city is 25 mpg, which is really respectable. The highway fuel economy is 31 mpg and the combined fuel economy is 28 mpg.
Safety
Let’s cover another aspect when it comes to this model before we discuss the Mazda CX5 reliability and that is the safety aspect.
This model was crash tested by the NHTSA and on their tests, it got 4 out of 5 stars overall. So, we can say that the safety aspect is not one of the best features of this model since 4 stars are 4 stars. Plus, these tests were done 10 years ago and standards have changed. So, safety is your biggest concern we would recommend checking out other models. But what about Mazda CX5 reliability? More on that after we cover the problems.
Mazda CX 5 Problems
Now before we cover the Mazda CX5 reliability, let’s discuss the 2013 Mazda CX 5 problems. This early model year of the CX-5 had a problem with the ignition coils. A lot of owners reported that their car simply shut off while driving or reported engine hesitation.
Another problem with this model was the unusual wear on the brake components, they simply wear out too fast. And on top of that, there are reports of problems with the windshield or the sunroof. They tend to crack and you have to replace them. So, check these things out.
Another problem with the 2014 model that was reported was an issue with the car would not like to shut down completely. In this model year, there were a lot of electrical issues.
The 2015 Mazda CX 5 problems include again problems with the windshield and also some owners reported that their sunroof has exploded.
But the 2016 Mazda CX 5 problems are probably the most notorious since this model year had a ton of problems with the LED daytime running lights. The lights would fail and you had to replace the whole assembly to sort out the problem. And this would cost you $1,000. There was a recall on this problem in 2021.
The 2017 Mazda CX 5 problems include problems with the brakes. Namely, the brakes would start to produce noises when braking. Also, issues with the automatic transmission in cold temperatures and trouble shifting. But what about Mazda CX5 reliability? More on that next.
Mazda CX5 Reliability
But what about Mazda CX5 reliability? When it comes to this aspect, we can say that the CX-5 is a really reliable vehicle.
There were no major reports on Mazda CX 5 engine problems and Mazda CX 5 transmission problems. The major concerns of this model are the daytime running lights that are notorious to fail in the 2016 model year as well as the problems with the cracking of the windshield and also cracking on the sunroof. These are the most expensive things to fix on this model.
Also, on Edmunds, this model has a good rating of 4.5 from current and previous owners. So, we can definitely recommend it to you. Now let’s move on to the next generation.
2nd Generation Mazda CX5
Now let’s cover the second generation of the CX-5 before we learn more about Mazda CX5 reliability. The second generation of this model was introduced in 2016 for the 2017 model year. And is still produced till the present day.
This new model implemented an overhauled design as well as changes to the platform which improved its safety and other important aspects to make it a bit more future-proof.
Similar to its predecessor, this model is imported into the US from Japan. What is good with this model is that it has a much better exterior and interior design than its predecessor. This makes its presence on the road really strong and people are really willing to get one of these models for themselves. But what about Mazda CX5 reliability? More on that we are going to cover in a bit.
Dimensions And Trims
Another topic that we would like to cover before we dive into the Mazda CX5 reliability is the dimensions of this vehicle. And we can say that the new model carries pretty much the same dimensions.
It has a wheelbase of 106.3 inches and a length of 179.1 inches. It is 72.4 inches wide and 66.4 inches tall. The curb weight of the new CX-5 Is 3,318lbs.
When it comes to trim levels, we can say that there are the same trims. The Sport, Touring, and the most luxurious Grand Touring model. Also, this model comes with front-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive options to choose from. But what about Mazda CX5 reliability? We will get to that in a moment.
Engines And Transmissions
Now let’s discuss the engines and transmissions used in the Mazda CX-5 before we cover Mazda CX5 reliability.
Similar to the predecessor, the new generation of the CX-5 includes only one engine. And this engine is the 2.5l Skyactiv 16 valve double overhead camshaft engine with variable valve timing.
The 2.5l engine is producing about 187hp and 186lb-ft of torque. Which is pretty much enough for a vehicle of this size. There is also a turbo version that is making more than 227hp.
In terms of transmissions, there are two transmissions to choose from. One is a 6-speed manual transmission and a 6-speed automatic transmission. But what about Mazda CX5 reliability? We will get to that in a moment after we learn the fuel economy that this model gets.
Fuel Economy
The fuel economy is also really good for the present generation of the CX-5. This model easily gets 24 mpg in the city, 30 mpg on the highway, and 26 mpg combined.
So, if you are looking for a good SUV that will save you a ton of money. The CX-5 is probably one of the best choices out there. But what about Mazda CX-5 reliability? More on that we are going to cover in a bit after we learn about the safety of this model.
Safety
As they say, safety is the number one priority. But is the new CX-5 a safe vehicle? Well, considering that the previous generation wasn’t one of the safest cars around, we can say that the new model performs quite better than the previous generation.
It still gets 4/5 stars on the NHTSA tests but it is a better performer overall. On the IIHS tests, this model got good grades on most of the tests. Except for the headlights and other small details such as the ease of use of the latch of the seatbelts where it got an “Acceptable” score. Overall, this model is an improvement to the previous generation in this segment.
Mazda CX 5 Problems
Now before we discuss more on Mazda CX5 reliability, let’s first learn about the problems that this model has.
The 2017 Mazda CX 5 problems are not that serious. There were only minor reports of problems with the transmission in really low temperatures and the brakes squeaking on some of the models.
The 2018 Mazda CX 5 problems on the other hand are more serious. There is a problem with these models with the engine head valve stem seal. It is somewhat defective and allows oil to leak and the car will burn oil.
This is a serious issue because the engine needs to be opened and these stem seals to be replaced. All this costs a lot of money. In addition to this, there are issues on this model again with the cracked windshield. This problem affects vehicles newer than 2018. But what about Mazda CX5 reliability? More on that we are going to cover next.
Mazda CX5 Reliability
Now let’s learn more about Mazda CX5 reliability. When it comes to the reliability aspect of this model, we can say that this car has issues with the valve stem seals on the cylinder head.
These stem seals tend to fail and this allows oil to sip in from the top and cause an oil consumption problem. The models that are 2018 and after are most affected by this problem. Especially the 2018 model years.
So, we would advise you to avoid the 2018 model. Go for a 2017 or 2019 and after model if you don’t want to deal with these issues with oil consumption. Unfortunately, there is still not an official recall on these engines because the problem is not affecting all of the vehicles out there.
Overall, besides this problem, the reliability of the present generation of the CX-5 is pretty good and there are no major problems except some minor electrical issues that trouble some owners. For more details, you can check carcomplaints.com and read all the reports on this model. Now let’s conclude this article about Mazda CX5 reliability.
Mazda CX-5 Facts: What You Need to Know Before Buying One
- The Mazda CX-5 is a compact crossover SUV that debuted in 2013 with a new design theme called “KODO – Soul of Motion.”
- The CX-5 is a newer entrant in the market compared to competitors like the Toyota RAV4 and Honda CR-V, with only two generations so far.
- The 2014 and 2016 model years of the Mazda CX-5 recorded more complaints compared to other years, making them less reliable choices to buy.
- The 2017 model year introduced a new 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and six-speed automatic transmission, with rare reported issues.
- The 2018 model year added blind-spot monitoring, forward collision warning, and mitigation, with few complaints.
- The 2019 model year included a 250-horsepower turbocharged engine and more standard features, with very few complaints from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
- The 2020 and 2021 model years added lane keep assist, pedestrian detection, adaptive cruise control, and lane departure warning, with widespread but few problems reported.
- Common issues across model years include faulty daytime LED running lights, windshield issues, engine failure, transmission issues, and problems shutting off properly.
- Mazda had to issue a recall for the faulty daytime LED running lights and windshield issues.
- The exploding sunroof is a rare but reported issue with some CX-5s, possibly due to a design flaw.
Conclusion To Mazda CX5 Reliability
In this article, we have covered quite a bit when it comes to the Mazda CX-5. First, we learned what this model is all about and why it is one of the most popular vehicles sold in the US.
Then, we have covered the last two generations of the CX-5. We learned their specs, problems, and also Mazda CX5 reliability. Overall, the earlier models of the CX5 are really reliable. The only problematic models are the ones after 2018. Some of these vehicles have leaky valve stem seals that tend to leak oil and cause your car to have increased oil consumption.
F.A.Qs
Now let’s answer some frequently asked questions.
Where Is Mazda CX 5 Made
The model for the US market is made in Japan. More precisely in their factory in Aki, Hiroshima. The CX-5 is assembled there along with the MX-5, Mazda3, Mazda6, and the CX-9.
Which Mazda SUV Is The Best
The best SUV that Mazda offers right now is the CX-5. This model is really popular and sells really well in the US market. So, if you are looking for a new model, this is probably the right choice for you.
How Much Does Mazda CX5 Weigh
The Mazda CX-5 weighs about 3,318 for the FWD model, while the AWD model is a bit heavier and weighs about 3,657lbs
Is Mazda CX 5 A Good Car
Yes, this model is one of the best all-around models sold in the US and one of the best sellers in this compact crossover segment. So, if you are looking for a new SUV, it is definitely worth checking it out.
How Much Is A Mazda CX 5
The CX-5 starts at $27,500 for the 2.5 Sport AWD model. But as you move up in the trim levels you could end up paying $41,000 for the Turbo Signature AWD model.
How Many Miles Do Mazdas Last
On average every car with proper maintenance should last 150,000 miles. Mazda engines are really good and they often last for more than 200,000 miles on average.
