Avoid the costly error of purchasing the Mazda CX-5 from one of its most difficult years. This analysis will tell you exactly the Mazda CX-5 years you should be wary of.
In this article I’ll look at every generation of Mazda CX-5 to identify the top times to buy this Mazda XC-5 to buy and the most problematic Mazda XC-5 years to avoid.
In analyzing the data from a variety of sources, such as NHTSA, J.D. Power, as well as direct feedback from owners, I’ll present an in-depth analysis of data-driven factors that affect the lifespan of the Mazda CX-5, including factors like satisfaction of owners and reliability.
Expect a comprehensive analysis of power train options safety features, security features, reports from owners of reliability issues, as well as recall history that differentiates the top Mazda CX-5 years from the crappy ones.
Let’s plunge right in.
Table of Contents
Best & Worst Mazda CX-5 Years
Mazda CX-5 Generations
It has been through multiple versions, adding new features and enhancements to the popular compact SUV. The first generation, which was launched in 2013 set the standard high with its elegant design, responsive handling and the latest technology.
The most current infotainment system gives seamless connectivity and focuses on the driver’s experience as it continues to improve and enhance the experience for drivers with every new generation of the CX-5.
A comprehensive chart shows each version from 2013 through the present year.
| Generation | Years |
| 1st generation (KE) | 2013-2016 |
| 2nd generation (KF) | 2017-Present |
Mazda CX-5: Best, Neutral and the worst years
In determining the top and worst years of CX-5 Mazda CX-5, we consider many factors when making our ranking and categorizations including, but not only:
- Reliability of the owner (surveys)
- Costs of annual maintenance
- Ratings for safety
- Consumer Reports score on reliability
- Consumer Reports score on owner satisfaction
- NHTSA recalls, investigates and also complaints
- Edmunds owner reviews
- JD Power owner ratings
- Kelley’s Blue Book (KBB) owner ratings
- Owner ratings for Vehicle History
- Cars.com owner reviews
Check out the following graph that summarizes and shows the combined scores from the previous sources.
Below is a table that divides each of the Mazda CX-5 model years into the best, neutral and worst years, based on the data compiled.
| Generation | Best Years | Neutral Years | Worst Year |
| 1st generation (KE) | 2013 2015 | N/A | 2014 2016 |
| 2nd generation (KF) | 2017 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024 | N/A | 2018 2019 |
“Neutral Years” are generally thought of as reliable but without the acclaim earned during the top times.
It’s important to recognize that many factors can play a role negatively, including NHTSA recalls. The higher number of recalls and complaints generally suggests a lower level of reliability of the vehicle.
Let’s take a look at the top, neutral, and most disappointing years of the Mazda CX-5.
Best and Worst Mazda CX-5 years 1st Gen (2013-2016)
Mazda’s ingenuous utilization of KODO design concept and the SKYACTIV technology indicates that certain particular models stand out more than others.
It was a major improvement in fuel efficiency as well as overall performance thanks to improvements made to it’s SKYACTIV motor and its transmission.
Its Best Year in the Mazda CX-5: 2013 and 2015
2013 is an outstanding choice for potential buyers. It offered a well-balanced mix of reliability and efficiency in fuel which set the bar high for the vehicle.
The 2015 model is also regarded as a leading contender because of its refined driving dynamics as well as better interior quality.
With its revolutionary Skyactiv-G PE -VPS 2.0-litre engine This compact SUV effortlessly blends power and efficiency, producing 150 horsepower and 155 pounds of torque.
The possibility of a 6-speed Skyactiv-Drive manual or an automatic transmission further emphasized Mazda’s commitment to provide an exciting driving experience for both regular drivers too.
The front-wheel-drive model of the CX-5 was astonished by the EPA’s estimate of fuel efficiency of 26 city as well as 35 mpg on the highway which makes it an outstanding option for environmentally conscious drivers.
This breakthrough in fuel efficiency was what set the CX-5 above its competition and proved Mazda its commitment to advancing technology and sustainability.
The features included features included a 5.8-inch touchscreen that was an interactive game changer, providing intuitive control over the car’s navigation and entertainment systems.
A nine-speaker Bose audio system gave an unbeatable listening experience, making every trip the next level of pleasure.
The Worst Year: 2014, 2016,
2014 and 2014 and Mazda CX-5 years to avoid due to the true horrors of those who own the Mazda 1st Generation. The NHTSA recalls hit a record peak in these years which left many owners angry and uninformed.
The years that followed saw a few issues with the transmission and suspension that hampered the overall experience of driving. Potential buyers should proceed by examining the vehicle thoroughly prior to making a decision to purchase these models.
The electrical system was the cause of several complaints surfaced regarding the vehicle’s power remaining on after the ignition was shut off.
Owners have reported returning to their vehicles parked to discover that the vehicle was still running, which led to exhausted batteries and a constant frustration.
This issue was a security danger and resulted in substantial financial burdens for a lot of owners who had to contend with frequent battery replacements and unreliable performance of their vehicles.
The infotainment system was an enormous headache for a lot of owners, with numerous reports of problems or freezes as well as long response times.
Best and Worst Mazda CX-5 years 2nd Gen (2017-Present)
The 2nd Generation of Mazda CX-5 was introduced in 2017 brought substantial design as well as comfort and technology improvements, highlighting Mazda’s determination to surpass and exceed customer expectations.
The years 2017 and 2020-2024 are the most reliable and reliable years to buy the 2nd generation Mazda CX-5. I would suggest avoiding the 2019 and 2018 Mazda CX-5 years of this generation.
It was the best year of 2017 2020 2021, 2022 2023 and 2024
What is the most reliable Mazda CX-5 model? 2017 2020 2021, 2022, 2023, and the newest 2024 are the 2nd generation’s most reliable and best Mazda CX-5 model year years that have outstanding VehicleHistory, Cars.com, and J.D. Power scores.
Under the car The 2017 model incorporated it’s 2.5-liter Skyactiv-G PY-VPS four-cylinder engine that was in the last part of the initial generation, delivering the power of 187 hp and 186 lb-ft of torque. It’s and the 6 speed Skyactiv-Drive auto transmission.
The fuel efficiency was efficient with the EPA score that is 24 city and 31 mpg on the highway for the standard front-wheel drive version.
The year also saw the launch of G-Vectoring Control system, which improves the stability and steering, as well as an important increase in safety features through the i-ACTIVSENSE suite that includes adaptive cruise control as well as lane departure warning as well as collision prevention.
The years following, specifically between 2024 and 2020 further developed the high-end performance of the previous years. A notable feature is an engine that was Turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that could produce upwards of 250 hp and 320 pounds of torque.
The model year 2020 introduced new standard features, like the larger 10.25-inch infotainment screen and an exclusive off-road traction assistance feature.
The iActivsense safety suite was updated to include sophisticated features such as Smart City Brake Support Reverse and Driver Attention Alert.
The Most Worst Year: 2018and 2019
With an incredibly high number of recalls and complaints from owners 2018, and 2019, are the years of Mazda CX-5 to steer clear of in this generation.
Owners complained of a myriad of problems related to electrical systems, the most well-known being an issue known as the “ghost touch” problem where the infotainment display would register the inputs but not be able to make them and resulted in random choices or changes to the settings.
The issue was so widespread it was Mazda extended its warranty protection for the affected systems.
In addition, there were complaints of excessive oil consumption and premature wear on brakes and occasionally cracks on the cylinder head that could cause leaks in the oil.
The years of the past also saw various recalls relating to power train controllers that could malfunction and cause the engine to stop, as well as fuel pump problems that could cause fire dangers.
Read more about NHTSA the 2018, 2019 Mazda CX-5 recalls and complaints.
Mazda CX-5 Average Resale Values
It is the Mazda CX5 is a top performer in the small SUV market. Its stylish design, robust performance, and outstanding fuel efficiency The CX-5 retains its value for a long time.
The graph shows the average resales values of Mazda SUVs for various model years. This is an important factor to consider for potential buyers.
Conclusion
When analyzing the top and most dreadful Mazda CX-5 years and comparing them, it’s clear that models from 2013 2015 and 2017, as well as 2017 2020, 2021 20, 2022, 2023 and 2024 are the most effective. They offer dependability as well as performance and general satisfaction for owners of the CX-5. It is advised to stay away from the models of 2014, 2016, 2018 and 2019 due to the possibility of issues being which have been reported by users.
If you’re thinking of buying the Mazda CX-5, opting for the recommended number of years will provide a better ownership experience.
FAQ: Best and Worst Mazda CX-5 years
What is the ideal year to purchase a used Mazda CX-5?
If your budget allows you, we recommend focusing your search for a used car on a 2014 or newer model since they scored well in the IIHS small overlap crash test. 2016 brought some minor freshening which made the car marginally quieter, and spruced up the interior, and introduced it with the Mazda Connect infotainment system, that is a pain to navigate.
What is the ideal year to buy a secondhand Mazda?
The Best Model Years of the Mazda CX-9 to Purchase a Pre-Owned
2007 – 2009 – First generation.
2010 – 2012 – First generation (first facelift)
2013 – 2015 – First generation (second facelift)
2016 – 2023 – 2nd generation.
What is the best CX-5 model?
To get the best Mazda CX-5, you have to choose 2.5 Turbo Signature. 2.5 Turbo Signature. It comes with everything 2.5 Turbo premium features as well as Aluminum Silver Exterior Trim. A Body-Color wheel arch.
Do you know of any issues with a Mazda CX-5?
Electrical glitches can be a problem for every vehicle of the present, and Mazda CX-5 is no exception. The owners have complained about a variety of electrical problems, from faulty power windows and door locks, to inconsistent warning lights in the dashboard. The causes could be wiring harness problems, defective sensors, or a depleted battery.
Are Mazda CX-5 high maintenance?
An Mazda CX-5 will cost about $7,339 in repairs and maintenance within the first 10 years of use. This is more than the industry standard for popular SUV models by $1,794. It also has an 21.93 percentage possibility that the CX-5 will need major repairs in the course of its life. This is 0.43 percent more than similar cars in this class.
