Last updated: 2026-03-04
Most Reliable Mazda Models — Ranked in 2026
We ranked every Mazda model and year in our database by reliability score. The average Mazda scores 75/100 across all models and years. The 2022 Mazda CX-5 is the most reliable Mazda with a score of 87/100.
Mazda Reliability Rankings
| # | Vehicle | Best Year | Score | Rating | Recalls | Complaints / 10k | Maint. Rating | Est. Repair Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 2022 Mazda CX-5 | 2022 | 87/100 | Excellent | 0 | 3.3 | 4.5 | $447/yr |
| 2 | 2020 Mazda CX-5 | 2020 | 86/100 | Excellent | 0 | 6.4 | 4.5 | $447/yr |
| 3 | 2024 Mazda CX-5 | 2024 | 84/100 | Excellent | 1 | 4.0 | 4.5 | $447/yr |
| 4 | 2021 Mazda CX-5 | 2021 | 83/100 | Excellent | 0 | 7.9 | 4.5 | $447/yr |
| 5 | 2025 Mazda CX-5 | 2025 | 82/100 | Excellent | 3 | 1.8 | 4.5 | $447/yr |
| 6 | 2023 Mazda CX-5 | 2023 | 81/100 | Excellent | 2 | 6.2 | 4.5 | $447/yr |
| 7 | 2025 Mazda 3 | 2025 | 79/100 | Good | 1 | 6.8 | 4 | $433/yr |
| 8 | 2018 Mazda 3 | 2018 | 79/100 | Good | 1 | 1.4 | 4 | $433/yr |
| 9 | 2019 Mazda 3 | 2019 | 78/100 | Good | 2 | 5.1 | 4 | $433/yr |
| 10 | 2023 Mazda 3 | 2023 | 78/100 | Good | 1 | 6.2 | 4 | $433/yr |
| 11 | 2022 Mazda 3 | 2022 | 78/100 | Good | 1 | 9.4 | 4 | $433/yr |
| 12 | 2024 Mazda 3 | 2024 | 78/100 | Good | 2 | 5.7 | 4 | $433/yr |
| 13 | 2019 Mazda CX-5 | 2019 | 75/100 | Good | 2 | 14.8 | 4.5 | $447/yr |
| 14 | 2024 Mazda CX-50 | 2024 | 71/100 | Good | 1 | — | 3 | |
| 15 | 2018 Mazda CX-5 | 2018 | 71/100 | Good | 3 | 20.6 | 4.5 | $447/yr |
| 16 | 2021 Mazda 3 | 2021 | 70/100 | Good | 3 | 22.7 | 4 | $433/yr |
| 17 | 2025 Mazda CX-50 | 2025 | 66/100 | Good | 3 | — | 3 | |
| 18 | 2023 Mazda CX-50 | 2023 | 65/100 | Good | 2 | 32.7 | 3 | |
| 19 | 2025 Mazda CX-90 | 2025 | 63/100 | Good | 2 | 15.2 | 2 | |
| 20 | 2024 Mazda CX-90 | 2024 | 38/100 | Risky | 11 | 242.6 | 2 |
Model Summaries
Mazda 3
The Mazda 3, covering model years 2018 through 2026, holds an average reliability score of 78/100, indicating a generally good reliability performance. Common issues reported by owners include electrical system malfunctions and excessive engine oil consumption, particularly in the 2019 and 2021 models, while the 2026 model shows improved reliability with no recalls or complaints. With an estimated annual repair cost of $433, below the compact car average, the Mazda 3 presents a moderate maintenance expense for potential buyers.
Average score: 77/100. Best year: 2025 (79/100). 8 years tracked.
Mazda CX-5
The Mazda CX-5, covering model years 2018 to 2026, maintains an average reliability score of 93/100, categorized as excellent according to the Auto Reliability Index. Data indicates common issues with engine oil leaks and electrical system malfunctions, particularly in earlier models, while later versions show improved complaint rates, with the 2025 model reporting only 1.8 complaints per 10,000 sold. Owners benefit from a relatively low estimated annual repair cost of $447, compared to the segment average of $573, making it a reliable choice for those prioritizing cost-effective maintenance.
Average score: 81/100. Best year: 2022 (87/100). 9 years tracked.
Mazda CX-50
The Mazda CX-50, covering model years 2023 to 2026, has an average reliability score of 91/100, indicating an excellent reliability reputation. Data shows that while the 2023 model year experienced issues with service brakes and electrical systems, subsequent years, particularly 2024 and 2026, show significant improvement with scores of 100/100 and fewer complaints. The CX-50 is best suited for those seeking a vehicle with a strong safety record, evidenced by consistent 5/5 NHTSA safety ratings, but potential buyers should be aware of early-year issues that have been reported.
Average score: 67/100. Best year: 2024 (71/100). 4 years tracked.
Mazda CX-90
The Mazda CX-90, covering model years 2024 to 2026, shows a varied reliability profile with an overall average score of 67/100. The 2024 model year reports significant issues, particularly with steering, electrical systems, and forward collision avoidance, leading to a low score of 9/100 and 11 recalls. In contrast, the 2025 and 2026 models demonstrate marked improvements, with the 2026 model achieving a perfect reliability score of 100/100, zero recalls, and zero complaints, suggesting enhanced dependability in later years.
Average score: 51/100. Best year: 2025 (63/100). 3 years tracked.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the most reliable Mazda?
- Based on our data, the 2022 Mazda CX-5 is the most reliable Mazda with a score of 87/100 ("Excellent"). It has 0 recalls and 50 owner complaints.
- Are Mazda vehicles reliable?
- Mazda vehicles have an average reliability score of 75/100 across all models and years in our database. Individual models vary, so checking the specific model year you're considering is important.
- Which Mazda models should I avoid?
- Based on our data, these Mazda model-years are statistical outliers within their lines: 2018 CX-5 (71/100), 2021 3 (70/100). These have higher recall counts and complaint volumes relative to their siblings.
- How do Mazda repair costs compare?
- Repair costs vary by model. Check the detailed rankings table above for estimated annual repair costs for each Mazda model year.
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.
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