Are Mazda CX-5 Reliable? The Honest Truth About Mazda’s Most Popular SUV

When it comes to compact SUVs, the Mazda CX-5 often stands in the spotlight — sleek design, crisp handling, and that signature “zoom-zoom” soul Mazda fans adore. But beneath the shiny paint and confident stance, there’s one burning question car buyers always ask: “Is the Mazda CX-5 reliable?”
We’re diving deep into real-world reliability, maintenance costs, long-term ownership, and everything in between to uncover the truth.

What Makes Reliability So Important?

Reliability isn’t just about avoiding breakdowns — it’s peace of mind. When a car’s reliable, it:

• Starts every morning without drama.
• Costs less to maintain over time.
• Keeps its resale value higher.
• Doesn’t turn into a garage regular.

And when you’re investing in something like the CX-5 — a family hauler, a commuter, or even a weekend adventure buddy — you want it to just work.

Mazda CX-5 Reliability Overview

The Reputation Mazda Built

Mazda’s reputation has evolved drastically over the years. Once known for sporty but quirky vehicles, Mazda has now positioned itself alongside Toyota and Honda in terms of dependability.
Consumer Reports and J.D. Power consistently place the Mazda CX-5 above average for reliability, often outperforming many rivals in its class such as the Honda CR-V, Ford Escape, and Volkswagen Tiguan.

Real-World Reliability Scores

Let’s look at how different sources rate the CX-5:

These numbers speak for themselves — the CX-5 is one of the most reliable compact SUVs you can buy today.

Common Mazda CX-5 Problems

No car is perfect, right? Even reliable vehicles have their weak spots.
Here’s a list of the most common Mazda CX-5 issues owners have reported over the years:

1. Infotainment System Glitches

Early models (2013–2016) had issues with frozen screens, crashes, or slow response.
Mazda later issued software updates to resolve most of these bugs.

2. Windshield Cracking

Some owners noticed spontaneous cracks in windshields due to design tension. Mazda acknowledged this and improved glass durability in later models.

3. Transmission Hesitation

In some 2016–2018 CX-5s, drivers felt a brief hesitation when shifting from 1st to 2nd gear — often fixed with an ECU update or fluid change.

4. DPF and Diesel Issues (Europe)

For diesel variants, the Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) can clog if the car is mostly used for short trips. Regular motorway driving usually keeps this in check.

Engine Reliability — The Heart of the CX-5

Mazda’s Skyactiv engines are the backbone of its reliability story. Designed to combine fuel efficiency with robust performance, these engines are engineered with precision.

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Skyactiv-G Petrol Engines

• 2.0L & 2.5L naturally aspirated engines
  • Known for their longevity and low maintenance.
  • Timing chains (not belts), meaning fewer replacements.
  • No widespread oil consumption or head gasket issues.

Skyactiv-D Diesel Engines

• Known for strong torque and smooth power delivery, but slightly more complex due to emission systems.
• Diesel versions need proper long-drive cycles to burn off soot and maintain DPF health.

Maintenance Costs & Service Intervals

A big part of reliability is how much it costs to keep the car running smoothly.

Average Annual Maintenance Costs

That’s impressively low for its segment — on par with Toyota and below Volkswagen.

Typical Service Intervals

• Oil and Filter: Every 12 months or 12,000 miles
• Air Filter: Every 24,000 miles
• Brake Fluid: Every 2 years
• Coolant: Every 5 years
• Spark Plugs: Every 60,000–75,000 miles

Mazda’s service simplicity contributes heavily to the CX-5’s reliability.

Reliability Across Different Model Years

Let’s break it down by generation and year — because not all CX-5s are created equal.

First Generation (2012–2016)

• Pros: Mechanically strong, simple engines.
• Cons: Minor electrical and infotainment issues.
• Verdict: Good value and still reliable today if serviced regularly.

Second Generation (2017–2022)

• Pros: Better refinement, improved electronics, stronger body structure.
• Cons: A few transmission calibration complaints.
• Verdict: A sweet spot between performance and reliability.

Current Generation (2023–Present)

• Pros: Updated infotainment, stronger drivetrain tuning, advanced safety tech.
• Verdict: Among the most reliable SUVs in its price bracket.

Mazda CX-5 vs Competitors’ Reliability

Here’s how the CX-5 stacks up against its biggest rivals:

Mazda holds its ground — a near-perfect blend of durability and affordability.

How Long Does a Mazda CX-5 Last?

With proper maintenance, a Mazda CX-5 can easily surpass 200,000 miles — and many owners report hitting 250,000 miles with the original engine and transmission.

Tips for longevity:

• Stick to factory oil change intervals.
• Use high-quality synthetic oil.
• Avoid excessive short trips (especially for diesel).
• Replace filters and fluids on time.

In simple terms: take care of it, and it’ll take care of you.

Cost of Repairs and Parts

Common Repair Costs

Verdict: Replacement parts are moderately priced and widely available. No exotic costs or hard-to-find components — a big plus for reliability.

Owner Experiences and Reviews

We’ve combed through thousands of reviews, and here’s what owners consistently praise:

• “It’s boringly reliable — in the best way possible.”
• “I’ve owned mine for 6 years and haven’t replaced anything beyond brakes and oil.”
• “Still feels tight and quiet after 100,000 miles.”

Criticisms?
Mostly centered around the infotainment quirks or firm ride on bigger wheels, not mechanical reliability.

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How Mazda Ensures Reliability

Engineering Philosophy

Mazda’s Skyactiv concept isn’t just marketing. It’s a holistic approach where engine, transmission, and chassis are designed to work in harmony — minimizing stress and maximizing efficiency.

Quality Control

• Engines are bench-tested for thousands of hours.
• Each transmission goes through precision testing.
• Random batch inspections are performed for every model line.

In short: Mazda sweats the small stuff.

Is the Mazda CX-5 Expensive to Insure?

Generally, the CX-5 falls into insurance group 15–22 (UK) or a moderate range in the US.
That’s lower than premium SUVs like the Audi Q5 or BMW X3 — partly due to its strong reliability record and safety ratings.

Safety and Reliability — Two Sides of the Same Coin

Reliability isn’t just about the engine; it’s about keeping you safe while doing so.
The CX-5 boasts 5-star Euro NCAP and IIHS safety ratings, thanks to:

• Advanced driver assistance (ADAS)
• G-Vectoring Control for smoother handling
• Durable body structure

That safety consistency reinforces the CX-5’s reputation for dependability.

The Bottom Line — Should You Buy One?

If reliability is near the top of your shopping list, the Mazda CX-5 deserves a prime spot.
It’s not the flashiest, nor the biggest, but it nails the essentials — engineering integrity, low ownership costs, and everyday trustworthiness.

The Verdict

• ✅ Outstanding reliability track record
• ✅ Low maintenance costs
• ✅ Refined driving feel
• ❌ Slightly firmer ride
• ❌ Infotainment can feel dated

In the grand scheme, the CX-5 isn’t just reliable — it’s dependable with a dash of driving joy.

Final Thoughts

Reliability isn’t always about perfection; it’s about consistency and confidence.
The Mazda CX-5 delivers both in spades. It’s that dependable friend who never lets you down, whether it’s a daily commute or a cross-country trip.

If you’re searching for a compact SUV that blends style, safety, and a rock-solid reliability record, the CX-5 may just be the one you end up keeping far longer than you planned.

FAQs

1. Are Mazda CX-5s expensive to maintain?

Not at all. They’re among the most affordable in their class to service — typically £250–£400 per year.

2. Does the Mazda CX-5 have engine problems?

No major widespread engine issues. Both petrol and diesel engines are durable with routine care.

3. How long does a Mazda CX-5 transmission last?

With regular servicing, expect over 150,000–200,000 miles before any major issues.

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4. Is the Mazda CX-5 more reliable than the Honda CR-V?

They’re close, but the CX-5 often edges out in reliability ratings and lower repair frequency.

5. What year Mazda CX-5 is most reliable?

The 2017–2021 models are often considered the sweet spot for performance and reliability balance.

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