Last updated: 2026-04-20

2022 Mazda CX-5 Reliability Report
The 2022 Mazda CX-5 scores 87/100 ("Excellent") with a complaint rate below the segment average. Data shows a dependable ownership experience across 0 recalls and 50 owner complaints.
Recalls
0
Complaints
50
Complaint Rate
3.3per 10,000 sold
Est. Repair Cost
$447
Annual Fuel Cost
$2,300–$2,500
Detailed Score Breakdown
Component-weighted complaints normalized by sales volume
Independent repair cost ratings
Recall count weighted by severity
Breadth of reported problem categories
The Verdict
Strong reliability record — a solid choice for buyers.
Top Issues to Watch
- EXTERIOR LIGHTING (13)
- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (6)
- ENGINE (5)
Generation & Refresh (US)
2022 received a facelift (2022) update for the Second generation (KF; 2016).
- Changes: Restyled bumpers; Updated headlights and tail lights; Revised suspension.
- Year 6 in this generation (2017–2025).
- 2nd generation CX-5 (US).
What this means for buyers
Refresh years bring updates but can also introduce new issues. Check early recall data before buying.
2017: Second generation (KF; 2016) Launch
Generation start — new platform.
2022: This Model Year (Refresh)
2022 received a facelift (2022) update for the Second generation (KF; 2016).
Should You Buy the 2022 Mazda CX-5?
The 2022 Mazda CX-5 earns an Excellent 87/100 reliability score. 2022 received a facelift (2022) update for the Second generation (KF; 2016).
At 3.3 per 10,000 vehicles sold, its complaint rate sits below the SUV segment average, and most owners report a trouble-free ownership experience.
A solid choice for buyers prioritizing dependability, new or used.
Compared to the 2023 Mazda CX-5, which scored 6 points lower. See also the 2021 Mazda CX-5 for an earlier comparison.
Pros
- +Strong reliability score
- +$126 cheaper to maintain than avg midsize SUVs
- +Infrequent unscheduled repairs
- +Low major repair risk (8%)
- +No recalls issued
Cons
- −EXTERIOR LIGHTING: Headlight assemblies (13 complaints)
- −2 fire incidents reported in owner complaints
Compare 2022 Mazda CX-5 With

2022 Hyundai Tucson
Reliability: 66/100

2022 Toyota RAV4
Reliability: 80/100

2022 KIA Sportage
Reliability: 79/100

2022 Honda CR-V
Reliability: 76/100

2022 Subaru Forester
Reliability: 77/100
Common Problem Categories
Other
HIGH RISK- EXTERIOR LIGHTING (13)
- UNKNOWN OR OTHER (6)
Recall Overview
0
recalls on record
No recalls are on record for the 2022 Mazda CX-5 — uncommon, and a strong signal of manufacturing quality.
NHTSA.gov →Complaint Breakdown
3.3
per 10,000 soldSegment avg: 14.3
Safety Incidents
5
Crashes
2
Fires
1
Injuries
0
Deaths
NHTSA 5/5 Stars
Data sourced from NHTSA complaint filings and manufacturer recall notices. Complaint narratives are owner-reported.
Buying a used 2022 Mazda CX-5? Check its history first
Every 2022 Mazda CX-5 has a different past. A VIN check reveals hidden accidents, title problems, odometer rollbacks, and open recalls that reliability scores can't show you.
- Accidents
- Open Recalls
- Title History
- Odometer Rollback
2022 Mazda CX-5 NHTSA Safety Ratings
Overall Safety Rating
Crash Test Results by Configuration (expand)
Gas Powertrain
Rollover risk: 17.4%
Safety Technologies
Mazda CX-5Repair Costs & Maintenance
Maintenance Rating
4.5Maintenance rating: 4.5 out of 5Based on NHTSA complaint patterns, recall severity, and publicly available cost benchmarks.
Est. Annual Maintenance
$447
vs $573 avg for midsize SUVs
vs $652 avg for all vehicles
Repair Frequency
0.3
unscheduled repair visits per year
Severe Repair Probability
8%
chance of a major repair
Annual Cost Comparison
Category-level averages derived from publicly available industry reports (AAA, CarMD). Model-level estimates produced by Auto Reliability Index.
MPG & Annual Running Costs
Gas
24–26 MPG
Running cost: $2,750–$2,950/yr
Fuel + repair
22–24 city / 27–30 hwy MPG
Running cost includes EPA fuel-cost estimate and independent repair-cost data (repair cost estimated at model level). Excludes routine maintenance, depreciation, and insurance. Data as of 2022 EPA label cycle.
Gas trims
| Trim | Drive | Trans. | City | Hwy | Comb | Fuel Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| CX-5 4WD 2.5L 4-cyl | 4-Wheel Drive | Automatic (S6) | 24 | 30 | 26 | $2,300 |
| CX-5 4WD 2.5L 4-cyl | 4-Wheel Drive | Automatic (S6) | 22 | 27 | 24 | $2,500 |
Used Buying Checklist
Key things to inspect or verify before purchasing a 2022 Mazda CX-5.
Inspect headlights for noise or failure, especially cooling fans
Check brake rotors for premature wear and thickness
Listen for engine ticking noise during cold starts
Test for unexpected acceleration when braking
Verify sunroof integrity and check for any signs of stress or cracks
Check for any warning lights related to the electrical system
2022 Mazda CX-5 Common Problems by Component
50 owner complaints grouped by vehicle system.
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
13 complaintsOwners report frequent issues with the exterior lighting of the 2022 Mazda CX-5, particularly involving the headlight assemblies. Complaints commonly mention a persistent noise, such as buzzing or humming, emanating from the headlight area, which is often attributed to failing cooling fans or headlight motors. This issue typically arises around 29,000 to 50,000 miles and may require costly replacements. Some owners also note problems with headlight beam alignment and uneven illumination, potentially affecting nighttime visibility. While no immediate safety incidents such as crashes are detailed, the potential for reduced visibility and glare for other drivers is noted, which could pose safety risks.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
6 complaintsOwners of the 2022 Mazda CX-5 frequently report issues with the sunroof, with multiple complaints detailing instances where the sunroof glass shatters unexpectedly. These incidents occur both while driving at highway speeds and when the vehicle is stationary, with no clear impact from debris or external objects. In several cases, the sunroof explosion creates a loud noise and results in shattered glass, which is often contained by the sunroof shade, preventing injuries. Additionally, one owner reports unintended acceleration while the brake is applied, which they manage to control by applying hard pressure on the brake. The mileage mentioned in the unintended acceleration incident is approximately 23,000 miles. These issues pose potential safety risks, including driver distraction and possible injuries from shattered glass.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
6 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2022 Mazda CX-5 report several issues related to the electrical system. A common problem involves sudden loss of acceleration, often accompanied by the check engine and battery lights illuminating, with one owner experiencing this twice within a month at highway speeds, posing a significant safety risk. Another pattern involves fires, with one vehicle unexpectedly catching fire and another experiencing a smoking heating element on the front windscreen. Additionally, a crash incident is reported where the vehicle accelerated abruptly while parking, leading to a collision with parked vehicles. These issues are reported at varying mileages, including a case of odometer discrepancy, and are associated with potential safety hazards such as loss of vehicle control and fire risk.
ENGINE (5 complaints)
ENGINE
5 complaintsOwners of the 2022 Mazda CX-5 frequently report a persistent ticking noise from the engine, particularly noticeable during cold starts. This sound is often attributed to issues with the Hydraulic Lash Adjusters (HLAs), components responsible for maintaining valve clearance, with complaints suggesting the noise may be linked to air bubbles or insufficient oil supply. While Mazda has not issued a Technical Service Bulletin for this model year, multiple owners indicate the problem persists, typically emerging around 33,000 miles. Additionally, a separate issue involves a cracked cylinder head leading to engine overheating, with reported symptoms including smoke, coolant spray, and critical malfunction alerts. These issues, particularly the overheating, could have safety implications, though no crashes or fires are reported.
POWER TRAIN (4 complaints)
POWER TRAIN
4 complaintsOwners of the 2022 Mazda CX-5 report issues primarily related to the transmission and oil leaks. Transmission problems are noted in two complaints, with symptoms such as failure to move, unexpected RPM fluctuations, and engine revving loudly. These issues occur at relatively low mileages, around 3,963 and 33,000 miles, and often require dealer intervention with parts like the valve body or the entire transmission being replaced. Additionally, some owners experience oil leaks due to a failed timing chain cover gasket and a cracked cylinder head, with the latter occurring as early as 14,000 miles. While no crashes or fires are reported, the potential for safety risks exists, particularly with unexpected vehicle behavior and oil leakage.
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE (3 complaints)
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
3 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2022 Mazda CX-5 report issues with the Forward Collision Avoidance system, with complaints indicating erroneous activation and failure to engage when needed. One common pattern involves the system activating without cause, bringing the vehicle to a complete stop unexpectedly, even when there are no vehicles or obstacles nearby. Another issue involves the system failing to provide adequate braking assistance or warning in time to prevent a collision. These problems are reported at varying mileages, including one case at approximately 18,000 miles. Safety implications are significant, as two complaints involve crashes, one resulting from unexpected emergency braking leading to a rear-end collision, and another due to insufficient braking assistance in an intersection incident. Buyers should be aware of these reported issues when considering a used 2022 Mazda CX-5.
AIR BAGS (2 complaints)
AIR BAGS
2 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2022 Mazda CX-5 report issues with the airbag system failing to deploy during a crash and unintended airbag deployment. In one instance, an owner describes a crash where the airbags did not activate, leading to a head injury, despite the vehicle being totaled. Another owner reports that the passenger side curtain airbags deployed without any external impact or accident. These complaints indicate potential safety concerns, as one involves a crash with an injury, while the other describes an airbag deploying unexpectedly. No specific mileage or timeline patterns are evident from the reports.
SERVICE BRAKES (2 complaints)
SERVICE BRAKES
2 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2022 Mazda CX-5 report issues with the service brakes, including premature brake rotor wear and brake pedal failure. One complaint describes all four brake rotors measuring below minimum thickness at 17,000 miles, necessitating replacement, with symptoms like popping or clicking noises when moving after being idle. Another owner reports a brake pedal failure at approximately 1,546 miles during an emergency stop, resulting in a crash. These patterns suggest potential safety implications, including increased stopping distances and brake system failure, with issues emerging as early as 1,546 miles.
STRUCTURE (2 complaints)
STRUCTURE
2 complaintsOwners of the 2022 Mazda CX-5 report two distinct structural issues. The first involves a high-pitched noise occurring at speeds over 50mph, particularly in windy conditions, which significantly disrupts the cabin environment by overpowering audio from music, phone calls, and audiobooks. The second issue concerns the sunroof, with one owner describing an incident where it exploded outward while driving at 70mph, scattering glass and posing a risk to vehicle occupants and other road users. This incident occurred in conditions involving temperature fluctuations and altitude changes, though the exact cause remains unclear. Both issues have potential safety implications, with the noise causing driver distraction and the sunroof failure presenting a direct physical hazard.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL (2 complaints)
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
2 complaintsOwners of the 2022 Mazda CX-5 report issues with unexpected acceleration, particularly when the vehicle is stopped or coming to a stop. Complaints frequently mention the vehicle's RPM increasing unexpectedly, causing it to lurch forward, and in one case, resulting in the car going over a curb. Both reports suggest that footwear may play a role, with larger shoes potentially causing simultaneous pressing of the brake and accelerator pedals. No crashes or injuries are reported, but there is a potential for loss of control in certain situations. These incidents occur sporadically and are not easily reproducible, with one owner noting a similar issue two months prior under different conditions.
When Do 2022 Mazda CX-5 Problems Start?
Based on owner complaint patterns, here's when common issues tend to appear.
Best & Worst Mazda CX-5 Years
Comprehensive reliability analysis based on NHTSA data, owner complaints, and historical performance.
Best Mazda CX-5 Years to Buy
Based on reliability index scoreThe best Mazda CX-5 year is 2022 with a reliability score of 87/100, rated excellent. Other strong picks include 2020 (86/100) and 2024 (84/100).
2022
(Current Model)
2020
2024
Mazda CX-5 Years to Avoid
The worst Mazda CX-5 year is 2018 with a score of 71/100, primarily due to engine (111) issues.
Mazda CX-5 Reliability Score Trend
Mazda CX-5 reliability has remained consistent across model years, averaging 81/100.
Scores 0–100. Higher is better. Current year highlighted.
| Year | Score | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| 2018 | 71/100 | Good |
| 2019 | 75/100 | Good |
| 2020 | 86/100 | Excellent |
| 2021 | 83/100 | Excellent |
| 2022 | 87/100 | Excellent |
| 2023 | 81/100 | Excellent |
| 2024 | 84/100 | Excellent |
| 2025 | 82/100 | Excellent |
Mazda CX-5 Reliability Compared to Other Years
| Year | Score | vs Prior Year | Rating | Recalls | Complaints |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | 73/100 (predicted) | — | Predicted | 0 | 0 |
| 2025 | 82/100 | -2 | Excellent | 3 | 25 |
| 2024 | 84/100 | +3 | Excellent | 1 | 53 |
| 2023 | 81/100 | -6 | Excellent | 2 | 96 |
| 2022(selected) | 87/100 | +4 | Excellent | 0 | 50 |
| 2021 | 83/100 | -3 | Excellent | 0 | 129 |
| 2020 | 86/100 | +11 | Excellent | 0 | 94 |
| 2019 | 75/100 | +4 | Good | 2 | 229 |
| 2018 | 71/100 | — | Good | 3 | 310 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the 2022 Mazda CX-5 reliable?
What are the most common problems with the 2022 Mazda CX-5?
How many recalls does the 2022 Mazda CX-5 have?
Is the 2022 Mazda CX-5 expensive to maintain?
Don’t buy a 2022 Mazda CX-5 without checking its VIN first — hidden accidents, title issues, and open recalls could cost you thousands.
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How We Calculate Reliability Scores
Auto Reliability Index scores are calculated on a 0–100 scale using a weighted formula that combines multiple public data sources. Each factor is weighted based on its predictive value for real-world ownership experience.
Key Ranking Factors
Complaint Severity
NHTSA owner complaints weighted by component category (e.g., powertrain, safety systems, electronics, cosmetic) — safety-critical issues carry more weight than cosmetic ones. Adjusted for sales volume so high-volume models aren't unfairly penalized.
Repair Costs
Independent reliability ratings based on repair frequency, average repair costs, and severity of typical repairs for each model.
Recall Impact
Number of NHTSA recalls weighted by severity. “Stop driving” and fire-risk recalls are penalized more heavily than minor software or labeling recalls.
Issue Diversity
Measures how many major vehicle systems (engine, transmission, electrical, braking, etc.) have recorded complaints. A vehicle with issues spread across many systems may indicate systemic quality issues.
Scores are grouped into four tiers:
- 80–100: Excellent— Top-tier reliability, minimal issues
- 60–79: Good— Reliable with some minor concerns
- 40–59: Mixed— Notable issues, research before buying
- 0–39: Risky— Significant problems, proceed with caution
Data is sourced from NHTSA recall records, owner complaint filings, and independent repair databases. Scores are recalculated as new data becomes available. While the weighting model is proprietary, all underlying data sources are public and traceable.
Get notified when new recalls or reliability data is added for the Mazda CX-5.
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