Is the Mazda CX-5 Reliable? Here's the Honest Breakdown
By Caropsy · June 30, 2026 · 5 min read
The Mazda CX-5 gets searched constantly by people cross-shopping it against the RAV4 and CR-V — and it holds up well in that comparison. Mazda's reputation for solid build quality shows in the CX-5's reliability record, with only a few minor watch-outs.
B
Yes — solid reliability across most yearsStrong build quality and low complaint rates, with a few minor items worth knowing.
Best years to buy used
2017–2021 (2nd gen)The 2.5L naturally aspirated engine is the proven choice — simple and durable. This generation has a strong reliability record and represents the best used value.
2022–2023 (later 2nd gen)Includes the optional turbocharged engine for more power, with reliability data continuing to track well. A good pick if you want more performance without sacrificing dependability.
Years to think twice about
2013–2014 (1st gen, early)Some early reports of infotainment glitches and minor electrical quirks in the first model years of the original CX-5. Nothing severe, but the later years of this generation are the safer pick.
💡 The CX-5 rewards picking the naturally aspirated engine if reliability is your top priority — fewer moving parts, fewer things to fail.
Common problems to know
Infotainment glitches (2013–2014): Minor and largely resolved in later production years.
Road noise: A common comfort complaint, not a reliability issue.
Turbo engine (2019+): Less long-term data than the naturally aspirated version, though no major issues reported so far.
Bottom line
A 2017–2021 CX-5 with the naturally aspirated 2.5L is a genuinely solid, reliable used SUV buy that also happens to drive better than most of its competitors.
Looking at a specific CX-5? Grade it before you buy.