VehicleVerdict

Mazda CX-5 years to avoid

The Mazda CX-5 years to avoid are 2016, 2014, 2018, 2019, 2013 — each drew complaint volumes well above the model's norm or has an open safety investigation. The 2012 is the cleanest year on record.

3,221

Total complaints

9

Recall campaigns

2012–2026

Years covered

5

Years to avoid

Complaints by model year

CX-5 years to avoid

YearWhyComplaints
2016High complaint rate624
2014High complaint rate492
2018High complaint rate469
2019High complaint rate353
2013High complaint rate292

Every CX-5 year

YearComplaintsRecalls
2026160
2025450
2024610
2023820
2022830
20211890
20201520
2019avoid3532
2018avoid4693
20171951
2016avoid6245
20151674
2014avoid4924
2013avoid2921
201210

Common questions

What are the worst Mazda CX-5 years?

Based on NHTSA complaint rates and open investigations, the CX-5 years to avoid are 2016, 2014, 2018, 2019, 2013. The cleanest year on record is 2012.

What is the best year for the Mazda CX-5?

By complaint volume, 2012 has the cleanest NHTSA record among CX-5 years with enough data to compare.

How many recalls does the Mazda CX-5 have?

Across all model years, the CX-5 has 9 distinct NHTSA recall campaigns and 3,221 consumer complaints on file.

Based on NHTSA ODI data through June 2026. Complaints are consumer-reported and unverified. Updated July 5, 2026.

Compiled by Sharon Ben-Moshe, Founder.