The Mazda CX-5, introduced in the U.S. for the 2013 model year, quickly became one of the most popular compact SUVs, praised for its sporty performance, stylish design, and fuel efficiency. Mazda’s commitment to engineering excellence, embodied in the SkyActiv technology, turned the CX-5 into a standout in the competitive SUV market. The SUV earned a loyal following thanks to its precise handling, premium interior, and overall reliability. However, not all CX-5 years have been without issues. If you’re considering a used CX-5, it’s crucial to know which model years are more prone to problems. Below, we’ll take a deep dive into five Mazda CX-5 years to avoid, explaining the challenges drivers faced with each, based on real owner feedback and expert reviews.

2014 Mazda CX-5

The 2014 Mazda CX-5 suffers from several issues that make it less reliable than other years. While the 2014 model boasts Mazda’s signature sporty handling and decent fuel economy, many owners report problems with the electrical system. Common complaints include malfunctioning infotainment systems and electrical failures that affect various components like the GPS, speakers, and backup cameras.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) also reported several recalls, including issues with the fuel tank and the electrical system. Some owners experienced a phenomenon known as “the phantom shutdown,” where the engine failed to turn off, draining the battery unexpectedly. This could cause significant inconvenience and frustration, especially for those relying on their vehicle for daily use. The brake pads in the 2014 model also wear out prematurely, often requiring replacements far earlier than expected. Many owners have had to replace their brake pads around 25,000 miles, a costly and time-consuming process.

The Consumer Reports owner satisfaction ratings for the 2014 Mazda CX-5 are also lower compared to other years, with complaints about its suspension and engine-related problems​.

2016 Mazda CX-5

The 2016 Mazda CX-5, while being part of the same generation, didn’t address many of the issues that plagued earlier models. Owners of the 2016 model complained about recurring electrical problems, particularly with the infotainment system. One of the most frustrating issues reported by drivers was the malfunctioning Mazda Connect system. The system often froze or became unresponsive, making it difficult to use essential functions like navigation and Bluetooth.

Another common problem was brake pad wear, with many owners experiencing premature wear that required replacement sooner than expected. The vehicle’s suspension was another area of concern, with reports of a rougher ride compared to previous years. Additionally, the 2016 CX-5 faced issues with turn signal malfunctions and headlight failures, which raised safety concerns.

J.D. Power rated the 2016 Mazda CX-5 lower than many of its competitors in terms of reliability and owner satisfaction, largely due to these ongoing electrical and mechanical issues​.

2018 Mazda CX-5

The 2018 Mazda CX-5 made significant improvements in its design and technology, but it still had several problems that make it one of the years to avoid. The most significant issue reported by owners was related to the infotainment system. Known as the “ghost touch” problem, the system would register phantom inputs, which could be dangerous if the screen was unresponsive or erroneously activated features. Owners reported the infotainment system responding to touches that didn’t happen, which caused considerable frustration.

In addition to the electrical issues, the 2018 CX-5 also experienced mechanical concerns. Cylinder head cracks and oil leaks were common complaints, which could lead to expensive repairs. Many owners found themselves having to deal with significant engine-related problems, which could be a result of improper manufacturing or materials. These engine problems, along with issues related to premature brake wear, caused the 2018 model to fall short of expectations.

The Edmunds expert review for the 2018 model noted the excellent performance and handling but cautioned potential buyers about these issues, making it clear that reliability wasn’t at its best for this particular year​.​

2019 Mazda CX-5

While the 2019 Mazda CX-5 continued to offer sporty driving dynamics and a high-end interior, it wasn’t without its faults. Many of the same problems from the 2018 model carried over into 2019, including the infotainment system malfunctions and mechanical failures.

One of the most concerning issues was related to the powertrain. Several drivers reported stalling engines and hard shifting in the automatic transmission. This not only posed a safety risk but also created significant repair costs for affected owners. The NHTSA issued multiple recalls for the 2019 model year, many of which were related to the powertrain control module. These recalls were critical as the malfunctioning modules could result in the engine stalling, posing a hazard on the road.

Another issue was the paint durability, with some owners noticing that the paint started to peel or chip soon after purchase. This is an unfortunate problem for a vehicle that boasts a premium exterior look. In addition, some reports mentioned suspension issues leading to rough rides over time​.

2022 Mazda CX-5

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 marked a new chapter for the model with updates to both its design and technology. Despite these improvements, the 2022 model was not immune to issues. Early reports from owners suggest transmission glitches and infotainment bugs that hindered the user experience. Some drivers reported that the vehicle’s transmission hesitated during acceleration, while others complained about the system’s lack of responsiveness when shifting between gears. Although these issues were not as widespread as those in earlier models, they were still concerning for many owners.

Another issue affecting the 2022 model was suspension wear, which led to a rougher ride for some drivers. While the 2022 CX-5’s suspension system was designed to improve handling, the reality for some drivers was more discomfort and a less enjoyable driving experience. Additionally, as with many modern vehicles, software-related issues were common, including problems with the vehicle’s driver assistance systems.

Despite its many strengths, the 2022 CX-5’s reliability issues make it less than ideal for buyers looking for a stress-free used vehicle​.

The Mazda CX-5 is, in general, a wonderful compact SUV, known for its sporty handling, premium features, and impressive fuel economy.

However, certain model years have experienced more than their fair share of issues, leading to lower-than-expected reliability. The 2014, 2016, 2018, 2019, and 2022 model years stand out as the ones to avoid due to a combination of electrical, mechanical, and software issues.

If you’re in the market for a used Mazda CX-5, consider opting for other years that have generally performed better in terms of reliability and owner satisfaction. Be sure to check out MotorBiscuit’s seamless car buying tool to compare listings and find the best deal near you. Always do your due diligence, have a potential car inspected before buying it, and consider a certified pre-owned vehicle to avoid some of these costly and frustrating problems.