CX-5 (KF)
NHTSA Safety Ratings About NHTSA ratings
Engine Reliability Ratings
PY Turbo
2.5L 4-cyl Turbo / 227 hpView details
Complaint Breakdown
Known Issues
PY Cylinder Deactivation
2.5L 4-cyl / 187 hpView details
Complaint Breakdown
Known Issues
2 additional engine variants with fewer than 10 complaints not shown.
Vehicle-Level Issues
These issues affect the Mazda CX-5 regardless of engine variant.
Recalls (4)
Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain 2018 Mazda3, Mazda6, 2019 CX-3, 2018-2019 MX-5, CX-5, CX-9, and 2019-2020 Mazda2 vehicles. The impeller inside the low-pressure fuel pump may crack and deform, potentially causing the fuel pump to fail.
Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain 2018-2019 CX-5, Mazda6, and 2019 Mazda3 vehicles. A software error in the powertrain control module (PCM) may cause the engine to stall.
Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain 2018 Mazda CX-5 vehicles. In the event of a side impact or rollover crash, the side curtain air bags may not properly unfold during deployment. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 226, "Ejection Mitigation."
Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain 2017 CX-5 vehicles equipped with an accessory trailer hitch wiring harness. This harness may be routed such that there is insufficient clearance between the harness and the exhaust muffler, allowing the wiring harness to contact the muffler.
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Alternatives in Compact SUV
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most common 2017-2025 Mazda CX-5 problems?
The 2017-2025 Mazda CX-5 has accumulated 845 NHTSA complaints. The most frequently reported problem areas are Engine, Electrical System, Transmission. As with any used vehicle, a pre-purchase inspection and vehicle history report are recommended.
Which Mazda CX-5 engine is most reliable?
The 2017-2025 Mazda CX-5 was offered with 4 engine options. Based on NHTSA complaint data, the 2.5L 4-cyl has the lowest complaint density and is considered the most reliable choice for buyers.
Is the 2017-2025 Mazda CX-5 a good used car?
The 2017-2025 Mazda CX-5 can be a solid used car purchase depending on trim, mileage, and maintenance history. With 845 total NHTSA complaints on record, prospective buyers should review the known problem areas and check for open recalls before buying.
How many NHTSA complaints does the 2017-2025 Mazda CX-5 have?
The 2017-2025 Mazda CX-5 has 845 complaints filed with NHTSA as of our latest data pull. Complaint counts reflect owner-reported issues and do not necessarily indicate defects or safety risks on their own.
What recalls affect the 2017-2025 Mazda CX-5?
There are 4 NHTSA recalls affecting some 2017-2025 Mazda CX-5 vehicles. Recall status varies by VIN — check the NHTSA recall database at recalls.nhtsa.dot.gov with your specific VIN to confirm which campaigns apply.
What should I check before buying a used Mazda CX-5?
Before buying a used Mazda CX-5, verify all open recalls are completed via the NHTSA VIN lookup tool. Pay particular attention to Engine, Electrical System, Transmission, which are the most commonly reported problem areas. Request maintenance records, have an independent mechanic inspect the vehicle, and run a vehicle history report to check for prior accidents or title issues.
What are the NHTSA crash test ratings for the CX-5?
The 2025 Mazda CX-5 received an overall 5-star safety rating from NHTSA. Frontal crash: 5 stars. Side crash: 5 stars. Rollover: 4 stars (16.9% rollover probability). Electronic Stability Control: Standard. Forward Collision Warning: Standard. Lane Departure Warning: Standard. These ratings are based on standardized crash tests conducted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
Data from NHTSA federal complaints database. 845 complaints analyzed. Data confidence: high. Last updated: 2026-04-07.