CX-5 models from its worst years may be an excellent choice if you’re looking to save money. The following Mazda CX-5 years should be avoided based on this analysis.
You will discover which generation of Mazda CX-5 is best for your needs in this guide. A list is provided of the worst Mazda CX-5 generations to purchase.
We examined the Mazda CX-5’s lifespan using input from NHTSA, J.D. Power, as well as direct feedback from Mazda CX-5 owners.
Several safety features, reliability issues, and recall histories are described in this article, along with a comparison of four Mazda CX-5 years.
Getting started will be a breeze.
Generations of the Mazda CX-5
In 2013, Mazda launched a new generation of its CX-5, an icon of KODO: Soul of Motion design and the latest in SKYACTIV technology.
With a versatile design and excellent fuel economy, this compact crossover offers a fun driving experience.
This table shows the Mazda CX-5 from 2013 to 2016.
| Generation | Years |
| 2nd generation (KF) | 2017-Present |
| 1st generation (KE) | 2013-2016 |
If you’re a prospective buyer or a CX-5 enthusiast, you must understand Mazda CX-5’s evolution. Technological advancements, performance improvements, safety improvements, and comfort improvements are hallmarks of each new generation.
Best, Neutral, and Worst Years of the Mazda CX-5
When determining the best and worst years of the Mazda CX-5, the following factors are taken into account:
- Reliability reports (surveys) from owners
- Estimated maintenance costs per year
- An evaluation of safety
- Ranking of reliability by Consumer Reports
- Owner satisfaction based on Consumer Reports
- A number of recalls have been issued by NHTSA, complaints have been investigated, and investigations have been conducted
- The owners’ ratings on Edmunds
- According to JD Power, owner ratings
- Rankings according to Kelley’s Blue Book (KBB)
Data from the compiled data was used to create a comprehensive ranking of Mazda CX-5 models based on their best, neutral, and worst features.
| Generation | Best Years | Neutral Years | Worst Years |
| 2nd generation (KF) | 2017 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024 | N/A | 2018 2019 |
| 1st generation (KE) | 2013 2015 | N/A | 20142 016 |
Despite not receiving the same praise as “Best Years,” “Neutral Years” are generally considered reliable.
NHTSA recalls, for example, can negatively affect vehicle performance. More complaints and recalls generally mean a less reliable vehicle.
It’s been a good and a neutral year for the Mazda CX-5.
Best and Worst Years for Mazda CX-5 2nd Generation [2017 to Present]
Mazda’s CX-5 is a second-generation model that has received numerous upgrades among its design, comfort, and technology features.
Mazda CX-5 2nd-generation models are most reliable in 2017 and 2020-2024. As of 2018 and 2019, Mazda CX-5 models are not recommended for this generation.
Best Years are 2017-2020, 2021-2022-2023-2024
Are there any Mazda CX-5 models that you recommend? Power rate the Mazda CX-5’s reliability best and most reliable for model years 2017, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, and 2024.
With 187 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque, the 2017 model comes with a 2.5-liter Skyactiv-G PY-VPS engine and 6-speed automatic transmission.
An EPA rating of 24 mpg in town and 31 mpg on the highway is given to front-wheel-drive models.
In addition to enhancing steering and stability, i-ACTIVSENSE also provides adaptive cruise control, lane departure warnings, collision mitigation, and G-Vectoring control to the vehicle.
In the decade between 2020 and 2024, this tradition flourished. In addition to delivering 250 horsepower, the 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine produces 320 pound-feet of torque.
In the 2020 model year, the infotainment system was updated and there was traction assist.
With Smart City Brake Support Reverse and Driver Attention Alert, the i-Activsense safety suite has been expanded.
Worst years were 2018 and 2019
A high number of complaints and recalls plagued this generation of Mazda CX-5s in 2018 and 2019.
Ghost touch is a problem arising from inputs which didn’t occur, such as those on the infotainment screen.
Several customers have reported this problem, so Mazda offers a warranty on it.
Oil leaks and premature brake wear can sometimes be caused by cracked cylinder heads.
During these years, there were multiple recalls related to the powertrain control module, which posed a fire hazard.
2013-2016 Mazda CX-5 First Generation Best and Worst Years
This stylish yet efficient vehicle was praised by critics for its KODO design philosophy and SKYACTIV technology.
Purchase Mazda CX-5s from 2013-2015 for the best value. Purchases should be avoided in 2014 and 2016.
Best years were 2013 and 2015
Recalls and complaints for the 2013 and 2015 Mazda CX-3 models were lower than those for previous generations.
The 2013 Mazda CX-5 has an engine producing 155 horses and 150 pound-feet of torque and a manual transmission (standard on Sport models).
With its impressive 26 mpg city and 35 mpg highway fuel economy, it set the bar high for its segment.
A 6.5-inch touchscreen is standard on higher trim levels, along with nine speakers and blind-spot monitoring. The base Sport trim comes with four speakers.
Touring and Grand Touring trims of the Mazda CX-5 offer 184 horsepower with a 2.5-liter Skyactiv-G petrol engine.
Also, Mazda adopted a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system across all trim levels and standardized advanced safety features.
Worst years were 2014 and 2016
There are more manufacturer recalls and owner complaints involving 2014 and 2016 Mazda CX-5 models than other model years of the Mazda CX-5.
It has been reported that Mazda CX-5 2014 owners have experienced unexpected restarts after turning off the ignition.
In addition to windshields and sunroofs that broke unexpectedly, structural concerns were raised as well.
One of the most criticized models of Mazda’s second generation was the CX-5.
LEDs and infotainment systems in the car weren’t working properly. An extensive recall followed as a result.
Seat and transmission problems have been reported by a significant number of customers.
Unresolved issues from earlier models were cited as reasons for complaints about brake pad wear and windshield cracking.
Avoiding which model years of Mazda CX-5?
Out of nine models produced, only two have been reliable. CX-5 models come in two versions, 2014 and 2016. Electricity, engine, brakes, exterior accessories, and miscellaneous problems are the most prevalent problems in the 2014 model year.
Among the most serious problems in the reports are:
- Five hundred and fifty thousand miles were required to shut down the engine completely.
- At 17,000 miles, the car’s engine clunk into gear.
- As soon as a brake system reaches 29,000 miles, it begins to wear prematurely.
There were more than 2,000 complaints about the 2016 Mazda CX-5 regarding lighting, brakes, electrical systems, engines, and drivetrains. The most common prematurely deteriorated components are daytime LED lights, windshields, and brakes after 43,000 miles.
Problems with Mazda CX-5
In the same way as other cars, Mazda CX-5s are constructed differently. Multiple generations of the Mazda CX-5 have, however, been plagued by numerous issues. Below is a summary of the reliability issues:
Lighting problems with LEDs during the day
Mazda recalled this vehicle because of this issue. It is common for the 2016 CX-5 daytime running lights to fail early during the first 100k miles of ownership. It is more expensive to replace these lights than they need to be because one bulb cannot be replaced.
Problem with the windshield
It is unknown as to why the CX-5’s windshields cracked frequently between 2014 and 2016. Mazda issued another recall for the CX-5 because of the windshield cracking issue. It is possible that Smart City Brake Support system will fail if the windshield bracket that holds the laser sensor is detached.
Failure of the engine
There have been a few reports of a CX-5 engine shutting off without warning, though it isn’t quite as common as some owners claim. The park button has not worked for some drivers, however. The majority of drivers continued driving several additional miles before stopping.
Problems with transmission
There were transmission problems with Mazda CX-5s, just as they were with many other cars. The transmissions of CX-5s failed on a number of occasions in 2015. Whining and clicking during shifts were the most common complaints. The cost of replacing transmissions has been thousands of dollars in some cases due to severe problems.
Not properly shutting off
Mazda CX-5 SUVs do not shut off properly, according to reports. A faulty sensor prevented the battery from being shut off by the electrical/ignition system. When the vehicle is turned off, the battery still powers accessories. A similar problem was reported in 2013 and 2014.
Sunroof explodes
There have been several instances where the sunroof of a Mazda CX-5 has spontaneously exploded without the presence of trees, bridges, meteorites, or anything else that could cause the explosion. Low-speed drivers have reported cracking and exploding sunroofs at 30 mph or less. A flaw in the sunroof may be to blame for these incidents during sunny weather.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Which Mazda CX-5 years are considered the best?
The best years for the Mazda CX-5 are 2013 and 2015 for the first generation, while the second generation (2017-present) sees its best years as 2017, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, and 2024. These models have received high ratings for reliability and owner satisfaction.
What are the worst Mazda CX-5 years?
The worst years to avoid are 2014 and 2016 from the first generation, and 2018 and 2019 from the second generation. These models have been associated with numerous complaints and recalls, particularly concerning electrical systems, engine issues, and safety features.
What specific problems should I be aware of in the 2014 Mazda CX-5?
The 2014 model is notorious for several issues, including:
Electrical problems leading to battery drain and ignition failures.
Structural concerns such as sunroofs and windshields shattering unexpectedly.
Engine-related issues that could cause complete shutdowns.
What issues are prevalent in the 2016 Mazda CX-5?
The 2016 model has been reported to have:
A malfunctioning infotainment system.
Defective LED daytime running lights.
Transmission failures and premature brake pad wear.
Problems with windshield cracking.
Why should I avoid the 2018 and 2019 models?
Both the 2018 and 2019 models are known for significant reliability issues, including:
“Ghost touch” problems with the infotainment system.
Excessive oil consumption and cracked cylinder heads leading to oil leaks.
Recalls related to powertrain control modules and fuel pump failures posing fire risks.
Is it safe to buy a used Mazda CX-5?
While many Mazda CX-5 models are reliable, it is advisable to avoid the problematic years (2014, 2016, 2018, and 2019). Always check for recalls and owner complaints specific to the model year you are considering.
Conclusion
With the 2020 CX-5, Mazda built the most innovative, reliable, and satisfying vehicle it has ever created, and it has long been its specialty to create successful vehicles.
The Mazda CX-5’s best years will be defined by safety, fuel efficiency, or technology?
