Best and Worst Mazda CX-5 Years: What to Buy & Avoid

Photo of author

David Lawrence

When you’re thinking about buying a Mazda CX-5, it’s important to know which years to avoid to steer clear of future problems.

Some years—like 2014, 2015, 2016, 2018, and 2019—are known for issues such as engine shutdowns, transmission failures, and electrical problems.

Mazda Cx 5 Years To Avoid

Imagine buying a car only to face quick brake wear or drivetrain troubles soon after. You want a reliable vehicle, not one that’s constantly giving you headaches.

So, which years are the best for reliability? Let’s dig deeper.

Key Takeaways

  • Skip the 2014 and 2015 Mazda CX-5 models because they have engine shutdowns and costly transmission problems.
  • The 2016 Mazda CX-5 has electrical issues, drivetrain problems, and wears out brakes quickly.
  • The 2018 and 2019 Mazda CX-5 models deal with transmission troubles and glitches in the infotainment system.
  • The 2014 and 2015 models often have faulty daytime LED running lights and windshields that crack easily.
  • Some CX-5 models have been recalled for issues with transmissions and LED lights, impacting their safety and reliability.

Problematic Model Years

When looking at the Mazda CX-5, the 2014, 2015, and 2016 models have had a lot of complaints and problems. These years should be approached with caution.

The 2014 Mazda CX-5 had issues like the engine shutting down and the brakes wearing out too quickly, which affected safety and performance.

The 2015 model had expensive transmission problems that needed major repairs.

The 2016 Mazda CX-5 also had many complaints about the lights, brakes, electrical systems, engines, and drivetrains.

Because of these ongoing issues, it’s best to avoid the 2014, 2015, and 2016 models to ensure a more reliable and trouble-free driving experience.

Common Issues

Common problems with the Mazda CX-5 include faulty daytime LED running lights, easily cracked windshields, engine shutdowns, and frequent transmission issues.

For example, the 2014 model is well-known for engine shutdowns and early brake wear, making it a year to avoid.

Owners of the 2016 model have reported various problems, such as issues with lights, brakes, electrical systems, engines, and drivetrains.

These issues can lead to expensive repairs and safety risks. Knowing these problems can help you decide which model years to avoid, especially if you’re thinking about buying a used Mazda CX-5.

Transmission Troubles

Transmission problems have been a headache for several Mazda CX-5 models, especially the 2015 version, which had major issues that led to costly repairs. Owners of the 2015 Mazda CX-5 often reported problems like the engine shutting down suddenly and the transmission not working right.

These problems show how important it’s to keep up with regular maintenance to avoid breakdowns and ensure a smoother experience with your car.

Ignoring these transmission problems can lead to even more damage and higher repair costs. Regular check-ups and quick attention to any transmission issues can help prevent these problems, keeping your car in better shape.

The 2015 CX-5’s transmission troubles are a clear reminder of why proactive care is crucial for maintaining your car and avoiding expensive repairs.

Recalls and Fixes

Some Mazda CX-5 models have had issues with their transmissions, but another big problem has been the daytime LED running lights failing too soon. Mazda recalled over 36,761 CX-5s because of this.

The problem was due to a sealing gasket on a wiring connector that didn’t meet the right specs, causing the LED lights to stop working early. Luckily, dealerships fixed this for free under the recall. If you paid to fix this problem yourself, you can contact Mazda to get your money back.

Mazda took quick action to fix the faulty LED lights, making sure the daytime running lights worked properly, which helped keep the car safe and reliable.

Expert Recommendations

Experts advise avoiding the 2014, 2016, 2018, and 2019 Mazda CX-5 models. These cars have problems like engines shutting down, transmission issues, and electrical failures.

The 2016 model, in particular, is known for electrical problems, drivetrain issues, and quick brake wear. The 2018 and 2019 models also have transmission troubles and glitches in the infotainment system.

The 2014 and 2015 models suffer from engine shutdowns and transmission control problems, and their windshields tend to crack easily. To avoid these headaches, steer clear of these specific Mazda CX-5 years.

When looking at performance cars, make sure to check out our guides on models like the Mazda 5, Mazda Cx 5, Mazda 3 and Mazda 6. Knowing which model years to target and which to avoid is crucial. Our expert reviews break down these models, providing insights into the years that are celebrated for their engineering excellence and driving satisfaction, as well as those that are best to avoid due to potential issues.

Conclusion

When thinking about buying a Mazda CX-5, it’s best to avoid the 2014, 2015, 2016, 2018, and 2019 models. These years are known for problems like engine shutdowns, transmission issues, and electrical failures.

To have a more reliable car, listen to the advice of experts and choose different model years. Your driving experience will be smoother and more dependable, avoiding the problems associated with these years.

About the author
David Lawrence
David grew up among mechanics and off-road enthusiasts, gaining deep knowledge in car mods, off-roading techniques, and automotive engineering, making him a trusted 4x4 expert.

Leave a Comment