Last updated: 2026-03-04
1 Mazda CX-5 Years to Avoid
Years that score significantly below the Mazda CX-5 average of 81/100
The Mazda CX-5 years to avoid are 2018 based on reliability scores, NHTSA recalls, and owner complaints. The worst year is 2018 with a reliability score of 71/100. The best Mazda CX-5 year to buy is 2022 87/100.
Verdict
The 2018 Mazda CX-5 scores significantly below the model average of 81/100. The weakest year is 2018 with a score of 71/100 due to engine (111) issues. The best year to buy instead is 2020 86/100.
Mazda CX-5 Years to Avoid
These model years score significantly below the Mazda CX-5 average of 81/100.
| # | Year | Score | Rating | Recalls | Complaints | Top Issue |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 2018 | 71/100 | Good | 3 | 310 | Engine (111) |
Why These Years Should Be Avoided
2018 Mazda CX-5
The 2018 Mazda CX-5 has good reliability. There are 3 recalls and 310 owner complaints on file for the 2018 Mazda CX-5. Severity signals include 18 crash-related complaints and 1 fire-related complaint. The most commonly reported problem areas are: Engine (111), Unknown Or Other (41), Power Train (34).
Top issues: Engine (111), Unknown Or Other (41), Power Train (34), Electrical System (25), Fuel System, Gasoline (19), Service Brakes (16)
View full 2018 reliability report →What Are Common Mazda CX-5 Problems?
Top reported issues across all Mazda CX-5 model years, based on NHTSA owner complaints.
ENGINE
263 complaintsMost reported in 2018, 2019, 2020
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
123 complaintsMost reported in 2018, 2019, 2020
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
99 complaintsMost reported in 2018, 2020, 2021
POWER TRAIN
98 complaintsMost reported in 2018, 2019, 2020
SERVICE BRAKES
54 complaintsMost reported in 2018, 2019, 2020
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
33 complaintsMost reported in 2018, 2019, 2020
Best Mazda CX-5 Year to Buy Instead
2020 Mazda CX-5
The 2020 Mazda CX-5 has excellent reliability. There are 0 recalls and 94 owner complaints on file for the 2020 Mazda CX-5. Severity signals include 8 crash-related complaints. The most commonly reported problem areas are: Electrical System (26), Unknown Or Other (17), Engine (9).
All Mazda CX-5 Years by Generation
All model years ranked by reliability score, grouped by generation.
Mazda CX-5 Reliability Scores by Year
Second generation (KF; 2016) (2017–2025)
2022 Mazda CX-5
0 recalls · 50 complaints
2020 Mazda CX-5
0 recalls · 94 complaints
2024 Mazda CX-5
1 recalls · 53 complaints
2021 Mazda CX-5
0 recalls · 129 complaints
2025 Mazda CX-5
3 recalls · 25 complaints
2023 Mazda CX-5
2 recalls · 96 complaints
2019 Mazda CX-5
2 recalls · 229 complaints
2018 Mazda CX-5
3 recalls · 310 complaints
Our data covers 2018–2025 model years.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Mazda CX-5 years should you avoid?
What is the best year for the Mazda CX-5?
How many recalls does the Mazda CX-5 have?
Is a used Mazda CX-5 worth buying?
What are common Mazda CX-5 problems?
Is the Mazda CX-5 reliable long-term?
Which Mazda CX-5 generation is most reliable?
How much does it cost to maintain a Mazda CX-5?
Is the 2022 Mazda CX-5 a good used buy?
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.
See incorrect data? Report an issue